Higher education has long been a space where democratic engagement, activism, and civic responsibility intersect. Yet, it has never been without its challenges—exclusion and inequity have shaped its institutions and opportunities. The goal is not to return to a flawed past but to strengthen higher education’s role in advancing democracy. As polarization grows, political pressures mount, and debates over academic freedom and access intensify, higher education must choose whether to retreat or lead. How should higher education respond to this moment? What are the current realities and the untapped potential of student activism and leadership in shaping democracy’s future?

This panel discussion is moderated by Brad Rourke, Chief External Affairs Officer at the Charles F. Kettering Foundation, and features leaders David Pepper, a senior fellow a the Charles F. Kettering Foundation, Rashawn Davis, executive director of The Andrew Goodman Foundation, and Elyssa Feder, executive director of Rising Organizers.

During this session, we will also present the Ernest A. Lynton Award for the Scholarship of Engagement to Maranda Ward and the Thomas Ehrlich Civically Engaged Faculty Award to Jodi Skipper. We will also recognize the recipients of the Excellence in Civic and Community Engagement Programming and the Excellence in Community-Engaged Partnerships Award.