Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 4 | Issue 1

Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin was the featured speaker at the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute’s latest Annual History Dinner in Phoenix, where she addressed the importance of historical perspective in a time of national uncertainty. Goodwin recalled her earlier visits with Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and praised the Institute’s work in teaching history and…

O’Connor Institute Ambassadors Online Civics & Debate Club

Calling all high-school-age students! Are you a high school student who wants to stand out on college applications, sharpen your leadership and debate skills, and connect with other ambitious students across the country? Join a one-of-a-kind, online Civics & Debate Club—totally free to join. You’ll build your confidence, grow your civics knowledge, and become part…

Join Our Community App

Join the Civics for Life Community—on desktop or in our app—and connect with people making a difference. This is your space for real conversations, practical tools, and the confidence to act.

New Policy Brief

Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?

Public Square | Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?

Join Our Virtual Conversation – the Public Square isn’t a lecture or a panel, it’s an open forum to share perspectives.

Civics 101 Quiz

Take this short quiz and test your civics knowledge!

The Economy: Tariffs, Inflation, and American Competitiveness

From trade wars to rising prices, America’s economic landscape is being reshaped by powerful forces. How do tariffs affect U.S. industry and global standing? With inflation cooling but uncertainty lingering, where are things headed next—and what does it mean for policy and growth? Economist John Cochrane joins the Institute to explore the pressures and policies…

John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship

The John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship Fund benefits high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, civil debate skills and civics knowledge. Established in memory of our late Institute colleague, Jay was passionate about equal justice and equal opportunity for all. His compassion for others was borne out by the volunteer work he did at…

Public Square | Political Polarization: Can we overcome it?

Our virtual Public Square was a dynamic discussion on the Electoral College. Those who may not have been able to join the conversation live can watch it now and find additional resources below.

November 2024 General Election: How Are Secretaries of State Preparing Nationwide?

50 states are each in charge of their elections. Join the O’Connor Institute and National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) to learn how our nation’s elections officers are preparing for the November 5th election. How are the elected officials in charge of American elections preparing for November?