Rutgers University leaders today announced a long-term initiative to support civic education and create broad civic engagement opportunities with a strong emphasis on student involvement and solution-focused dialogue. The new Rutgers Democracy Lab at the Eagleton Institute of Politics will aim to promote a civic-minded community informed by research and analysis of citizenship, political participation and civil discourse.
The initiative grew out of an op-ed President Jonathan Holloway wrote for The New York Times about requiring a year of national public service from all young people before age 25 so they can help others while getting to know others’ similarities and differences through a common purpose.
Students enroll in academic enrichment courses, learn about financial literacy and civic and cultural engagement, among many other subjects and areas of development. A heavy emphasis is placed on college readiness and career exploration.
Rutgers–Camden Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis, Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the exceptional contributions of six Rutgers–Camden students who worked alongside Camden leaders this summer.
Nyeema Watson, the vice chancellor for diversity, inclusion, and civic engagement, is at the helm of Rutgers–Camden’s efforts to expand excellence in equity and education.