Civic Engagement Matters to Students

Sean Anderson, a Senior at Roosevelt University, says his interest in government first started in Middle School. Early on, he knew that he wanted to be instrumental in enacting positive change for individuals and organizations. 

After becoming a member of his school’s Model UN and Student Council, he realized he found his passion. This early involvement has lead to his appointment to the Illinois Board of Higher Education as a full-voting Board Member, representing students’ views.

Sean believes civic engagement and more representation from young people in the political process is crucial, saying “You can’t make an impact on the future if you don’t understand the past,” he notes, explaining, “The earlier you engage in issues that are important to you, the more you can impact the future.” 

Sean says that students also take issue with the influence of special interests in campaigns. “Big money in politics is very disconcerting to my generation. It has always been an issue, but the current climate discourages people from running for office at the local, state, and federal level,” he said.

Our upcoming “Chicago Politics in Transition” Forum on Thursday, April 9th will discuss these issues with a panel of experts. ICPR sponsors students to attend our forums if costs are associated with the event. Please visit our event page below if you are interested in donating to this important student scholarship and outreach fund. It is the generous contributions from supporters like you that make these opportunities possible.

Click here to view the invitation and purchase your tickets today.