The NextGen Civic Leader Corps (NGCLC) is part of a network of similar programs at Universities across the country designed to inspire and support the exploration of careers in public service.
We offer advising, programming and financial support to diverse undergraduate students who are socially engaged, community-rooted leaders. The program offers a semi-structured pathway that combines academic coursework, peer networking, and career exploration in government, non-profit, and social venture organizations.
NGCLC participants complete three program elements and earn a modest scholarship.
NGCLC is a collaborative effort between the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance and the Community Engagement and Leadership Education (CELE) Center.
Overview:
Public Policy & Leadership Coursework: NGCLC participants are required to take a minimum of one course in the Public Policy or Leadership minor. This coursework provides an academic anchor for your public service career exploration, builds your understanding of theoretical frameworks, and can prepare you to talk about your community-engagement and leadership experiences in job interviews and/or graduate school applications.
Career Building Experience: In addition to the context and connections that NGCLC participants will get through courses and peer connections, they also engage in one non-profit or government career building opportunity. These career building experiences will connect participants with professionals in a field of interest, build personal and professional networks, and in many cases allow students to gain practical experience working in a nonprofit or government organization.
Signature Cohort Events: We ask program participants to attend at least two signature cohort events each academic year; these events are a great way to get started with the program and meet the advisors! Signature cohort events allow NGCLC participants to build their networks, engage with new ideas, and consider how others approach pressing social issues and cultural conversations. Events span varied categories, including direct service, network building, and social/cultural events. Many signature events are facilitated specifically for NGCLC members and offer direct connections with notable community leaders, public policy practitioners, and/or elected officials.
How to Join:
The program is open to all University of Washington undergraduates. Students with a demonstrated history of work with underserved and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to consider participation.
Students that join NGCLC and complete all three program requirements will be eligible for a modest ($500) scholarship during Spring Quarter 2022.
Attend any of the Signature Cohort Events listed above to meet our advisors and get started in the program! You can also fill out this interest form and we will stay in touch about program opportunities.
Interested students can email our program advisers–Amen and Kathryn–at nextgenleader@uw.edu with questions or to learn more about any part of the NextGen Civic Leader Corps program!
