“Making a Difference” is Orange County Business Council’s feature series that brings the face and voice of OCBC
members to life by sharing how they’re making a difference in their communities.
July 2024
At the intersection of an election year and one of Orange County Business Council’s core initiatives—developing a workforce grounded in 21st century education—the question arises: how is the next generation being prepared for civic literacy. From the classroom to the boardroom, from the university lecture hall to Wall Street and Main Street, from running a business to running for office, how are our local educational institutions ensuring that the nation’s sixth largest county is graduating an informed citizenry? Will the next generation be prepared to engage across the aisle, help shape policy, or run for office? Read on to learn how some local organizations—all OCBC investors—are ensuring civic literacy.
Center for Civics Education at Concordia University Irvine
Q: An understanding of the basic principles of American democracy and how they are applied in our form of government is crucial. What is your organization doing to ensure civics literacy in future generations?
A: The mission of the Center for Civics Education at Concordia University Irvine is to strengthen the capacity of students and citizens to effectively participate in constitutional self-government and strive to form a more perfect union through educational programs focusing on the founding principles of the United States—civility and the common good. The Center informs by exploring the historical context of our founding and examining major themes from various perspectives; inspires by pursuing our shared identity as Americans and fostering a community of mutual respect and common purpose; and involves by equipping students and citizens with tools and resources to engage as informed participants in their own communities.
Q: In addition to textbooks, current events such as landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases can influence law and society, and help shape public policy at local, state and federal levels. How is your organization helping students to look at today’s current events through these lenses?
A: Understanding how landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases influence law, society and public policy begins with understanding how our government is organized—understanding the roles of the three branches of government, checks and balances, and federalism. None of the three branches operates in isolation from the others, and there are mechanisms in the Constitution that enable each branch to restrain the others from exercising too much power. The Center focuses on equipping people with knowledge and skills to play their part in this constitutional system of self-government. Among our programs are annual campus-wide celebration of Constitution Week; a 17-part online series about the drafting of the Constitution; an 18-part live and live-streamed lecture series on our founding documents; a day-by-day blog account of the Constitutional Convention and ratification conventions; and more. Each includes application to modern-day issues.
Q: What are the top three ways that your organization is ensuring civics literacy for students, preparing them for their roles in the workforce and possibly holding office, or shaping policy?
A: In recent years, “action civics” has largely replaced or minimized “content civics” which provides a solid foundation for understanding our founding principles and constitutional government. “Action civics” often calls for civic action before students have acquired sufficient civic knowledge. Studies reveal the rise of “action civics” has been accompanied by a significant decline in civic literacy. The Center’s approach is to provide live and online programs emphasizing civic literacy—to inform (educate) how our government works, its history, and the principles underlying it. We continually work to inspire by telling the stories about people and events whose courage, duty and sacrifice overcame obstacles to achieve greater freedom and inclusion and became examples for us. We will involve students and the community at large in the two-year celebration and commemoration of the birth of the United States, its growth and development.
Q: Understanding of the U.S. Constitution and its application, having a knowledge of the founding documents and how they have shaped our institutions of self-government may seem inapplicable to today’s civics students. How does your organization get creative to make discussions around these principles relatable?
A: Understanding the aspirations of our founding documents cannot be considered “inapplicable” to today’s civics students. The Constitution, which includes its amendments, is not merely a set of ideas; it is “the supreme law of the land.” The Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Northwest Ordinance, the Emancipation Proclamation and other documents fundamental to our system, cannot be fully understood if we remain detached from the people and events that created them. Telling their remarkable stories in their full context, reading the original documents and applying them to our lives today is the most effectual and inspiring way to understand our rights and responsibilities as “We, the People.” History and civics go hand in hand and can inspire as well as educate.
Q: Disrupters like social media can contribute to misinformation. How is your organization preparing and equipping civics students to have discernment?
A: Discernment is the ability to judge well. This means obtaining information from multiple sources and refusing to listen only to those with whom you agree. It involves active listening to understand and to be understood, as well as checking the sources of information. Programs created by the Center for Civics Education are based on and encourage independent thinking, providing information from various points of view, encouraging fact-checking, viewing issues and information in context, and engaging in civil, informed conversations.
Q: Who or what inspires your organization to do what do you do?
A: The work of the Center derives its inspiration from the twin pillars of liberty and justice. It is reflected in a statement often used as a subtitle for our programs: “America is the perfect idea; the United States of America is a work in progress.” Our country was founded on the truths that all men are created equal and endowed by certain unalienable rights – life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It was the most democratic proposition in history to become a reality. It is the common ground, which should inspire all of us to value each other as citizens and participate in that “work in progress” we have inherited from those whose heroism, duty, and self-sacrifice made possible.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to develop informed and engaged future civic leaders?
A: We have developed and are implementing a two-year, countywide project to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States, culminating on July 4, 2026. Designed to inform, inspire, and involve, it will engage business and labor; education; the arts; local government; civic, ethic, and faith-based organizations; and others, each making its own unique contribution. A robust website and social media will provide resources, blogs, podcasts, events arranged by various groups throughout the county, and other information. The project will drive engagement by multiple others, create a civics and civility campaign, and promote civic virtue to keep us on a trajectory of becoming better as a people and a community.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: As one of the largest and most diverse communities in the nation, Orange County can be a model of civic literacy, civility, and civic engagement, if we choose to be. By focusing on our shared values embodied in the Declaration of Independence and operationalized in the Constitution, along with respect for our fellow citizens, we can truly forge “a more perfect union.” The 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States provides the ideal opportunity for such a community commitment.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: The favorite part of doing this kind of work in Orange County is engaging with people from many nations and cultures who have come to the United States to exercise the freedom we enjoy and pursue the proverbial American dream. Many of them do not have ancestors who participated in founding the United States in the latter part of the 18th century, but they, too, love liberty and the principles underlying our system of government and have contributed immensely. No matter where a person comes from, when they become a citizen they become an American – no exclusions, no second-class status, no limitations. They, WE, are all Americans, plain and simple.
Orange County Department of Education
Orange County Department of Education History/Social Science Manager Dr. Marika Manos, left, supports second-grade students during a presentation at the OC Civic Learning Celebration in April.
Q: An understanding of the basic principles of American democracy and how they are applied in our form of government is critical. What is your organization doing to ensure civics literacy in future generations?
A: At the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE), we’re passionate about empowering the next generation with a strong foundation in civics. Every year, we host the OC Civic Learning Institute and Celebration. The institute serves as a dynamic platform where educators come together to design meaningful civic engagement experiences for students. The overarching goal is to support students as they pursue their K-8 Civic Learning Pathway certificates or the State Seal of Civic Engagement.
The Civic Learning Pathway program encourages elementary and middle school educators to create opportunities that cultivate civics skills and dispositions among students. It’s closely aligned with the criteria for the State Seal of Civic Engagement, which is awarded to high school students who exhibit excellence in civic learning, civics-related projects and contributions to their communities. To earn this seal for their diplomas or transcripts, students must also demonstrate a deep understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the California Constitution and the American democratic system.
Q: In addition to textbooks, current events such as landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases can influence law and society, and help shape public policy at local, state, and federal levels. How is your organization helping students to look at today’s current events through these filters?
A: History and social science education really emphasizes the importance of connecting historical concepts with current events. This not only enhances understanding but also helps students grasp the larger impacts of landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases on society and public policy.
At our OC Civic Learning Institute, educators are equipped to guide students in linking public policy applications with classroom theories. These sessions foster the design of civic engagement projects, where students actively research issues and propose solutions to both the public and policymakers. We also provide educators with a rich array of resources that present multiple perspectives on issues, including balanced pro-con analyses, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of current events. This prepares students to think critically about real-world issues and their broader implications.
Q: What are the top three ways that your organization is ensuring civics literacy for students, preparing them for their roles in the workforce and possibly holding office, or shaping policy?
A: Our approach to enhancing civics literacy is multifaceted, providing local districts with robust technical support, professional learning opportunities and resources.
For one, the OC Civic Learning Institute plays a pivotal role. Over the course of this two-day event, educators engage deeply with a curriculum designed to expand their knowledge, skills and dispositions necessary for preparing students to be civic-ready. Participants explore effective ways to foster classroom relationships and enhance social awareness. They also learn to design lessons that promote academic conversations and develop speaking skills, which are essential for civic engagement.
Educators are encouraged to apply these insights by developing civic engagement projects for their classrooms or schools. Additionally, ongoing access to resources through our professional learning programs and on the OCDE webpage supports educators in continuously refining their teaching practices.
Q: Understanding of the U.S. Constitution and its application, having a knowledge of the founding documents and how they have shaped our institutions of self-government may seem inapplicable to today’s civics students. How does your organization get creative and make discussions around these principles relatable?
A: We recognize the challenge of making historical documents feel relevant to students, and that’s why we actively strive to incorporate real-world applications and contemporary issues. A good example is Teachers Law School, a partnership with the Orange County Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates. This one-day event brings legal experts together to discuss constitutional issues through the lens of significant historical events, such as the Japanese Internment during World War II. These kinds of programs not only contextualize the U.S. Constitution but also highlight its ongoing impact.
Our textbook adoption processes also ensure that discussions about the U.S. Constitution and its principles are woven throughout K-12 education. And the History/Social Science Framework serves as a guide for educators to integrate civics effectively into their teaching, encouraging students to compare past and present issues. By doing so, we help students see these foundational documents not just as historical artifacts but as living instruments that continue to shape our society and governance.
Q: Disrupters like social media can contribute to misinformation. How is your organization preparing and equipping civics students to have discernment?
A: Equipping students with media literacy skills is crucial. As part of our professional learning programs and the OC Civic Learning Institute, educators discuss and learn how to apply best practices in media literacy, emphasizing critical skills such as lateral reading, which helps students assess the credibility of sources.
Educators are trained to guide students in examining the origins of information — understanding who the author is, determining their objectives and evaluating their arguments. This approach encourages students to actively question and analyze information rather than passively consuming it.
Q: Who or what inspires your organization to do what you do?
A: We are inspired by our students who will one day actively shape democracy. We are hopeful for a future where students feel seen, and heard, and can make a difference in their communities. OCDE’s efforts are driven by the hope that students will not only understand the world, but also to improve it.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to develop informed and engaged future civic leaders?
A: We are committed to this work because the need is as great as it ever was. Moving forward, we will continue to host and evolve the OC Civic Learning Institute and Celebration. We are committed to expanding our offerings by providing more professional learning opportunities and resources that focus on media literacy, current events and the development of civic engagement projects.
The goal is to equip educators with the tools they need to inspire and guide students in becoming proactive, informed participants in their communities and beyond.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: OCDE is making an impact by supporting initiatives that visibly enhance civic engagement among students. For instance, thousands of students across Orange County have earned the State Seal of Civic Engagement, an honor presented by the California Department of Education that recognizes their proficiency and dedication to civic education. We have also successfully expanded our Civic Learning Pathway Awards program, which in just its second year has already seen hundreds of third-, fifth- and eighth-grade students receive this accolade.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: What truly inspires us at OCDE is the opportunity to engage with the students and their families. We are deeply honored to learn about their lives, their aspirations and their efforts to improve their communities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the direct impact our work has on empowering these individuals to address issues that are personal to them and enact positive change. This connection not only fuels our commitment but also enriches our understanding of the community we serve.
Richard Nixon Foundation
Above, artist’s rendering of the forthcoming American Civics Center at the Nixon Library.
Q: An understanding of the basic principles of American democracy and how they are applied in our form of government is critical. What is your organization doing to ensure civics literacy in future generations?
A: Civic literacy is at the core of the mission of the Richard Nixon Foundation. Building on the Foundation’s educational programs, the Foundation is actively teaching American civics to students onsite at the Nixon Library, and online. Plans are laid —and fundraising occurring— to build immersive classroom space for students to “role play” unique scenarios that will make the Constitution come alive, fostering a better understanding of the rights and duties associated with citizenship in the United States.
Q: In addition to textbooks, current events such as landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases can influence law and society, and help shape public policy at local, state and federal levels. How is your organization helping students to look at today’s current events through these filters?
A: The Richard Nixon Foundation is teaching the timeless and steadfast American concepts of individual liberty, a system of self-government, and free enterprise. Equipping students with an understanding of American history and civics gives them the skills (and myriad examples from our storied 250 years) to think critically about current events while instilling the responsibilities and duties of citizenship.
Q: What are the top three ways that your organization is ensuring civics literacy for students, preparing them for their roles in the workforce and possibly holding office, or shaping policy?
A: Executing ongoing civics-based programming with the Foundation’s Distinguished Speaker Series that brings accomplished leaders and best-selling authors to Orange County.
Partnering with educational institutions including Chapman University’s Presidential Studies Program, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History to create learning opportunities for elementary, high school and undergraduate students as well as K-12 teachers.
Developing engaging educational exhibits that connect the past with the present while increasing understanding of America’s role in the world.
Q: Understanding of the U.S. Constitution and its application, having a knowledge of the founding documents and how they have shaped our institutions of self-government may seem inapplicable to today’s civics students. How does your organization get creative and make discussions around these principles relatable?
A: A future component of the Nixon Foundation’s civic advancement initiatives—being made possible through the Foundation’s American Civics Campaign—is The American Civics Center. This new, future physical space on campus will provide middle and high school students with a hands-on understanding of American democracy with scenario-based learning in settings like a White House Situation Room or a press briefing room. New opportunities for student interaction with primary resources, expanded educational exhibition space and teacher seminars are also planned.
Q: Disrupters like social media can contribute to misinformation. How is your organization preparing and equipping civics students to have discernment?
A: The Nixon Foundation meets students where they are and takes historically sourced civics content to platforms they regularly use. Through YouTube and other social media platforms, the Richard Nixon Foundation engages young audiences. Nixon Foundation views have exceeded 30 million in 2024 –and exceeded 8.4 million in March 2024 alone– with an average of 270,000 views on the Foundation’s content every day. The largest demographic of viewers on the Foundation’s YouTube channel is aged 18–34 years (31.0%).
Q: Who or what inspires your organization to do what you do?
A: Richard Nixon, an Orange County native and the only President to be born and raised in California, lived a life of public service. From serving the Navy in World War II, to holding the elected positions of Congressman, Senator, Vice President and President, as well as a respected Elder Statesmen in his final years, President Nixon shaped post-Cold War America. It is the mission of the Richard Nixon Foundation to apply the legacy and vision of President Nixon to defining issues that face our nation and the world today.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to develop informed and engaged future civic leaders?
A: In 2023, the Richard Nixon Foundation launched the American Civics Campaign, a multi-part effort to reverse the unfamiliarity of civics education among our fellow Americans. The first part is the completion of the Nixon Library’s campus, to ensure that it remains, always, an active, populated center of educational advancement. The second part of our efforts—which complements the capital projects— involves the development and implementation of civic educational programs to serve the next generation of Americans. These programs are already happening at the Nixon Library and online!
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: The Richard Nixon Foundation jointly operates the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum with the National Archives and Records Administration welcoming more than 150,000 visitors annually to the presidential museum galleries. The Foundation offers a robust calendar of events that bring thought-leaders in business, politics, academia, and media to Orange County, as well as rotating special exhibitions that offer new, fresh educational content to Orange County residents.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: Richard Nixon said, “I believe in the American Dream because I have seen it come true in my own life.” From humble roots in Orange County, he rose to the highest office in our country, through hard work and a commitment to a cause bigger than himself. It is a story that can resonate with Orange County’s youngest minds, and maybe even inspire them to achieve their own American Dreams.
Vanguard University
Q: An understanding of the basic principles of American democracy and how they are applied in our form of government is critical. What is your organization doing to ensure civics literacy in future generations?
A: At Vanguard University (VU), ensuring civics literacy in future generations is a top priority. Because of this, every undergraduate student is required to take either U.S. History or American Democracy as part of their core curriculum. These courses dive into the founding of our country and the development of its political system, laying a foundational understanding for all undergraduates while discussing current political topics relevant in society. The university’s vision of “Education for Love and Wisdom” emphasizes civic engagement and our courses foster civil discussions on contemporary issues, preparing students to be civically engaged and informed leaders. In the words of Amberly Gourlay, a Vanguard student serving as the Student Government Association (SGA) president, “A required class at my institution is American Democracy, which I experienced as a class made alive by its discussion-based format and up-to-date topics. As students, what we were seeing overwhelm our media was being spoken about and studied in our classes. To my surprise, unlike the division apparent through the media, discussions in my class were amicable and a new hope for civility was instilled.”
Q: In addition to textbooks, current events such as landmark legislation and Supreme Court cases can influence law and society, and help shape public policy at local, state and federal levels. How is your organization helping students to look at today’s current events through these filters?
A: At Vanguard University, students study the groundbreaking court case Mendez, et al v. Westminster School District of Orange County as an entry point into learning about the array of laws and court cases that have shaped, and continue to shape, public policy at local, state, and federal levels.
Teacher candidates visit the Mendez Tribute Monument Park and meet Sylvia Mendez, enabling them to learn about California’s historic role in prohibiting school segregation. Guided by the goal of leading with civility, respect, justice, humility, and extending grace, students learn to act justly, preparing them to be thoughtful and engaged citizens. As Amberly expressed, “Loving others well is acknowledging the responsibility that we as Christians have to take care of our neighbor. I think ultimately the responsibility to love others is the driving force behind civility, because often being civil involves choosing to be kind in the face of disagreement.”
Q: What are the top three ways that your organization is ensuring civics literacy for students, preparing them for their roles in the workforce and possibly holding office, or shaping policy?
A:
- Liberal arts education with an emphasis on critical thinking: This is exemplified by Vanguard University’s commitment to teaching critical thinking skills, ensuring students understand the democratic underpinnings of American education and highlighting the importance of engagement in civic life characterized by love and wisdom.
- Engagement in issue-oriented events: In preparation for the upcoming 2024 election season, Vanguard University has programmed lessons and co-curricular education with the focus on a “Year of Civility,” reflecting our commitment to addressing timely issues and educating future leaders on civility. With an emphasis on discussing issue-oriented events, hosting guest speakers and creating a close-knit campus grounded in unity, Vanguard is creating engagement both on and off campus. This plays out in our students’ daily lives as they live out civility on campus. Amberly expressed, “As a candidate running for office during our own election season here at Vanguard University, I witnessed this happening right in front of me. My fellow candidates were kind and always supportive, and I hope they felt as though I was too. In addition to this, our campus community remained civil to all three candidates, this was largely evident through the peace felt and displayed by both the candidates and their constituents.”
- Core-curriculum and culture: All Vanguard undergraduate students must enroll in either US History or American Democracy as part of their core curriculum. Both courses delve into the founding of the country and development of the political system. Currently staff, faculty and students alike are being intentional about the culture they create on campus. The benefit of a small campus is the close-knit community that is derived.
Q: Understanding of the U.S. Constitution and its application, having a knowledge of the founding documents and how they have shaped our institutions of self-government may seem inapplicable to today’s civics students. How does your organization get creative and make discussions around these principles relatable?
A: Our faculty members creatively engage students with the U.S. Constitution and its principles by relating discussions to current issues and student experiences. The university’s “Year of Civility” initiative further connects the founding documents to real-world problems, fostering relevant and meaningful dialogue. For teacher candidates, understanding the Constitution is critical, especially the First Amendment’s establishment and free exercise clauses, which outline the boundaries of religious expression in public schools. Candidates learn to create inclusive environments where all students can express their beliefs without imposition. Vanguard University encourages its students to be active participants in their communities, embodying truth, virtue and service both on and off campus. Amberly added, “As students we don’t want to just sit on the sidelines, we want to be on the field. Truth, virtue and service is what we hope to be marked by and we continuously strive to pour that back into our community.”
Q: Disrupters like social media can contribute to misinformation. How is your organization preparing and equipping civics students to have discernment?
A: Critical thinking is fundamental to our approach in preparing civil leaders. Through education, we empower individuals to make informed decisions amidst the flood of information surrounding them, including the misinformation spread across social media. We teach news literacy, helping them to discern fact from fiction and knowing what information to trust. Additionally, teacher candidates study media and information literacy and learn to equip their students with tools to assess, evaluate, integrate, originate, and use information, whatever the source or modality. These lessons will help elementary and secondary students become discerning creators and users of media, social and otherwise.
Dr. Eunice Kang, VU Assistant Professor of Political Science, has outlined “Rules to live by” that help students to engage in the world around them. The following rules serve as a way of life in all aspects, not just the education space:
- Active Listening—before we speak, it’s better to ask questions, then listen to the answer.
- Don’t demonize each other but demonstrate love to each other, and don’t label people based on their politics or who they voted for.
- We can disagree without being disrespectful.
- Don’t contradict because you won’t convince.
- Be a peacemaker, not a troublemaker.
Q: Who or what inspires your organization to do what you do?
A: Our university finds inspiration in serving Jesus Christ and embodying his principles of compassion and service. The mission of Vanguard University is to pursue knowledge, cultivate character, deepen faith, and equip each student for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service. We pursue truth and strive to develop critical and creative thinking skills for careful, reasoned, and independent analysis; and we engage in scholarship with integrity and excellence. Ultimately, our faith motivates us to engage constructively and inclusively, striving to make a positive impact in the world.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to develop informed and engaged future civic leaders?
A: Fostering informed and engaged civic leaders is an ongoing mission, which is why we are spearheading the “Year of Civility” initiative. The effort is aligned with our core values of truth, virtue and service and aims to create a culture of dignity, honor and respect, especially amidst the political discourse and polarization of the 2024 election season. Vanguard University is leading a comprehensive effort to equip all students with the necessary tools for constructive participation in society. As an integral part of this endeavor, the School of Education will actively contribute to and support every aspect of the Year of Civility.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: VU is committed to both reflecting and supporting the belonging and success of our local students, intentionally recruiting regionally with 85% of students coming from within a 100-mile radius of our campus in Costa Mesa. Additionally, 51% of undergraduates are eligible for the federal Pell Grant, which is usually only awarded to students who display exceptional financial need. Through our students, many of whom are deeply rooted in the community, we instill not only knowledge and critical thinking skills but also a strong commitment to leadership and service. We develop our talents to their potential and discern God’s purpose for our lives; we strengthen the skills necessary for a productive place in society; we exercise civic responsibility, respect cultural, group, and individual differences, and care for others; and we prepare students for diverse vocations and leadership roles.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: Our favorite part of working in Orange County is the opportunity to equip students with love, wisdom and the critical thinking ability to make an impact. By upholding these principles, both rooted in faith and national ideals, we contribute to the preservation and advancement of freedom and democracy in our society.
