JOHN JAY FETZER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

For High School Seniors 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…

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute For American Democracy Overview

An informed citizenry is the bedrock of a strong democracy. The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute offers an array of programs in support of our mission to advance democracy through multigenerational civil discourse, civics education, and civic engagement. Join us: be part of lifelong learning and building a brighter future.

DOES RANKED CHOICE VOTING (RCV) HELP OR HINDER ELECTIONS?

Q&A With Alaska’s Honorable Kevin Meyer Mr. Meyer served as Alaska Senate President in 2015-2016 and was elected as Lt. Governor in 2018. As the Lieutenant Governor of Alaska, he served on numerous boards and committees including the National Lt. Governors Association Policy Resolution Committee and National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) Elections Committee.…

Why Civics? Why Now?

American civil society is currently vulnerable. This is not a unique opinion. In a recent NBC News poll, 58 percent of respondents said the United States’ best years were behind it (just 35 percent said the best is yet to come). And when the same poll asked respondents what the most important issue facing the…

The Importance of Civic Education

“We pay a price when we deprive children of the exposure to the values, principles, and education they need to make them good citizens.” ~ Justice Sandra Day O’Connor The success of our democracy and society depends on civic education. It equips us with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become informed citizens actively…

Civics Education

Our educational resources are developed to explain more than just fasts. Understanding the “why” of civics drives our content. We believe in lifelong learning and hope that you find our information enriching and beneficial.