Bennington College was established in 1932 as a beacon of progressive, liberal arts education with a dedication to instilling in students a commitment to being active citizens in our democracy. Today, Bennington carries this legacy forward, committing to a pedagogy that not only enriches students academically but also empowers them with the civic knowledge and skills vital for safeguarding and nurturing democratic ideals in an ever-evolving global landscape.
- Laura Walker
Activation Plan
Below is an overview of some campus activities:
- “Saving Democracy: The Elections and Education” is an immersive program consisting of two sessions, a summer session open to Bennington students, alumni, and the community, featuring guest speakers and resources for civic engagement, followed by a fall session focusing on media and democracy, including a public policy forum for both Bennington students and the wider community.
- The Visual Arts Lecture Series (VALS) offers students the opportunity to engage with visiting arts professionals to inspire, challenge, and enact civic and social change within their communities and beyond.
- Free Expression Task Force brings together a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees members to thoughtfully craft long-term policies that ensure these fundamental rights are preserved and nurtured within our institution.
- Bennington’s Center for Advancement of Public Action hosts a robust restorative justice program and will hold weekly restorative justice circles, among other events.
Laura Walker
President, Bennington College
Related articles:
61 College Presidents Unite to Advance Civic Preparedness and Uphold Free Expression on U.S. Campuses
Just released – From Polarization to Progress: College Presidents Join Forces
The “College Presidents for Civic Preparedness” have an Agenda
Can You Teach Free Speech? These Colleges Are Trying.
Democracy U: Graduates Lead the Charge. Watch the video
Join the growing consoritum of campus leaders urgently committed to collectively restoring higher education’s role in democracy.
Laura Walker
President, Bennington College
Below is an overview of some campus activities:
- “Saving Democracy: The Elections and Education” is an immersive program consisting of two sessions, a summer session open to Bennington students, alumni, and the community, featuring guest speakers and resources for civic engagement, followed by a fall session focusing on media and democracy, including a public policy forum for both Bennington students and the wider community.
- The Visual Arts Lecture Series (VALS) offers students the opportunity to engage with visiting arts professionals to inspire, challenge, and enact civic and social change within their communities and beyond.
- Free Expression Task Force brings together a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees members to thoughtfully craft long-term policies that ensure these fundamental rights are preserved and nurtured within our institution.
- Bennington’s Center for Advancement of Public Action hosts a robust restorative justice program and will hold weekly restorative justice circles, among other events.
Bennington College was established in 1932 as a beacon of progressive, liberal arts education with a dedication to instilling in students a commitment to being active citizens in our democracy. Today, Bennington carries this legacy forward, committing to a pedagogy that not only enriches students academically but also empowers them with the civic knowledge and skills vital for safeguarding and nurturing democratic ideals in an ever-evolving global landscape.
- Laura Walker