Close Up Foundation

This year’s Student Civic Leadership Summit, a partnership between Close Up and the National Association of Independent Schools, brought together passionate young leaders to create lasting positive change in their communities.? ? Hear from the Civic Leaders on the powerful lessons they learned in their presentations to the National Network of Schools in Partnership Annual Conference, the inspiration they gained, and how they’re preparing to take action in their communities.??

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of moderating the expert panel at the Close Up Foundation Student Summit Expo, where 75 ESOL high school students from Lee County Public Schools showcased and presented their Florida Legislative Policy Proposals. This event served as a follow-up to the 2024-25 Close Up – Rally to Tally, where these students had the incredible opportunity to present their legislative agendas to state-elected officials in Tallahassee.

Why do we serve? How can we help shape America’s future? Whom in the next generation will take up the cause? Thank you to Close Up Foundation for the opportunity to join an Armed Forces Service Panel this week and speak to 150 passionate students from high schools across the country. I loved the opportunity to share stories from twenty years of service and talk about what kept me motivated to do my best every day. Positive, supportive civic engagement is so important to the future of our country. To my fellow panelists— You are the living definition of patriotism and selfless service. You inspired me just as much as our listeners! Stay safe out there. ??: Amada Robles for Close Up

As Black History Month comes to a close, we’re celebrating the people who make our work possible. Meet Erykah Joseph-Valentine from our Business Development team! Erykah reaches out to schools with Close Up’s program opportunities, helping students journey from their hometowns to Washington, D.C., for hands-on civic education.

Another successful year with the Close Up Foundation in the School District of Lee County. Our students shared clever solutions to policy proposals they began in Tallahassee. They continue to inform us on challenges we are facing and inspire us to find pathways for a better community. Thank you to all the community officials and partners that attended the event. #ESOLdepartment

For an incredible half a century, Close Up and Belen Jesuit Preparatory School have forged a partnership dedicated to cultivating informed and engaged citizens. This enduring legacy owes much to Patrick Collins, whose steadfast devotion to civic education has profoundly shaped generations of students.? ? In this tribute, colleagues, former students, and former Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen reflect on Pat’s unwavering commitment to scholarship, community, and the advancement of civic understanding in Florida. Watch "Honoring Pat Collins" at https://bit.ly/4hYkt44

As technology continues to shape our society and politics, how can young people understand artificial intelligence and influence its impact on our world?? ? This summer, Close Up teams up with the Stanford Deliberative Democracy Lab for the NextGen Roundtable: AI & Democracy Summer Institute at Stanford University, where high school students will dive into the intersection of AI, democracy, and society! ?? Engage with top experts and Stanford academics.? ?? Learn about AI and its impact.? ?? Craft legislative recommendations for tech policy. ? ?? Explore Stanford’s campus and the Bay Area’s vibrant culture!? ? Register by March 8! https://bit.ly/4ge7YzP

In honor of Black History Month, we’re highlighting the voices of staff members like Program Leader Kyra Hill who equip students with hands-on civic education, inspiring a deeper connection to democracy!

A sincere thank you to our esteemed Economy panelists for their valuable insights during this week's OYC Miami Day of Deliberative Dialogue Issue Panel. Their expertise—spanning labor unions, business trends, and economic policy—provided students with a deeper understanding of the complex factors shaping their workshop discussions. Michael Butler, Miami Herald Dr. David Mahon, Miami Dade College Jeffrey Mitchell, Transport Workers Union of America International Union Brooks Mullen, University of Miami Berrak Bahadir, Florida International University

Students from across Miami gathered at the Overtown Youth Center for a powerful Day of Deliberative Dialogue, focusing on poverty and economic challenges in their communities. Through expert panel insights and facilitated discussions, they explored economic factors, weighed potential solutions, and deepened their understanding of civil discourse. Thank you to our partners at The Claude Pepper Foundation, OYC Miami, and our guest panelists for making this a thoughtful and engaging opportunity for learning and collaboration.