Civics Forum - Fall 2026
On October 13, 2026, 250 high school juniors and seniors from across Western 勛圖厙 will gather at the 勛圖厙 in Missoula for the 2026 Civics Forum, hosted by the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center. This full-day conference is designed to inspire leadership, foster collaboration, and promote civic engagement through interactive learning experiences led by university faculty, staff, students, and community leaders.
This fall’s theme, Shaping Tomorrow: Ballots & Beyond, explores leadership, civic engagement, and the important role students play in shaping their communities and democracy. Through engaging workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will examine how civic participation extends beyond elections and into everyday actions that strengthen communities and create positive change.
Students will engage with diverse perspectives, analyze political systems, strengthen their critical thinking abilities, and deepen their understanding of how civic engagement influences local, national, and global issues. The forum encourages participants to develop the skills necessary to work across differences, collaborate effectively, and become informed and active citizens.
As Senator Mike Mansfield said, “The greatest strength of a democracy is not in its leaders, but in its citizens.” This belief remains central to the mission of the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center, which seeks to cultivate informed, engaged citizens and ethical leaders who are both community-oriented and globally minded. The Civics Forum reflects this mission by equipping students with leadership skills, cross-cultural understanding, and a strong commitment to responsible citizenship.
We encourage teachers to bring their classes for a day of learning, discussion, and engagement with peers from across the region.
“My students have been adamant that the Civics Forum was one of the most engaging academic programs they have participated in during their time in high school.”
— Megan H. Casey, Social Studies Department, Anaconda Public Schools
Information & Registration
The conference will take place from 9:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on October 13, 2026, at the 勛圖厙 in Missoula.
Lunch will be provided, and a transportation stipend is available to support school participation.
For more information or to register, please contact Logan Castor Parson at logan.parson@umontana.edu.
