The research is clear: study after study shows that we Americans don't know civics. Obviously there is a need for more and better civic education in schools, a proposition that consistently receives strong bipartisan support. Yet American public schools are not as a rule prioritizing civic education. Why is this so?
50 states are each in charge of their elections. Join the O'Connor Institute and National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) to learn how our nation's elections officers are preparing for the November 5th election.
Join us for Dinner With Oppenheimer & Truman this November. Our acclaimed Annual History Dinner will honor two individuals whose lives changed the course of history during World War II, Manhattan Project Director, Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer and President Harry S. Truman.
All About Elections
Voter registration, ballots, deadlines, the Electoral College... there is so much to know about elections. We invite you to review and utilize our many voter resources.
An informed citizenry is the bedrock of a strong democracy. The O'Connor Institute offers an array of programs to support multigenerational civil discourse, civics education, and civic engagement. Be part of lifelong learning and building a brighter future for our nation.
Did you have civics when you were in school? Expand or test your civics knowledge by enrolling in Civics 101, free micro-lessons that are online, and available anywhere, anytime. From the fundamentals of our government and democracy to the elections process, lifelong adult learners can expand or refresh their civics education.
Calling all high school leaders! The O’Connor Institute Ambassadors Civics & Debate program is now enrolling for the 2024-2025 school year. This is a free online program for 9th-12th graders. The Club offers you a one-of-a-kind civil discourse experience and civics education throughout the school year!
Justice O’Connor’s body of work across her decades in public service is available in an easily accessible, searchable format. From students to legal scholars and general public, all can access this information anytime. Users can view a vast collection of her legal opinions, legislative career, interviews, articles, photos and more along with a detailed timeline of Justice O’Connor’s storied life.
The 6th annual Civics Challenge, an online civics competition for grades 6 through 12, is now open! Participants are challenged to choose one civics topic and express their knowledge through various art forms. Categories include an essay, short video, or original song. Finalists will be awarded cash prizes totaling $5,000 in support of civic education.
Founded by retired United States Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the O'Connor Institute For American Democracy, a nonprofit, nonpartisan 501(c)(3), continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American democracy through multigenerational civics education, civic engagement and civil discourse.
With Appreciation To Our Collaborative Partners
Support The Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy
Your investment in the Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy furthers the organization's mission to continue Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's legacy and lifetime work to advance American democracy through multigenerational civics education, civic engagement and civil discourse.
The importance of the O'Connor Institute for American Democracy lies not only in preserving Sandra Day O'Connor's legacy, but also in guaranteeing that the never-ending work "to form a more perfect Union" will transpire in the name of an icon who strove so fiercely in the worthy project.
"As a citizen, you need to know how to be part of it, how to express yourself - and not just by voting."
~ Justice Sandra Day O'Connor
Contact
Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy
Email: info@oconnorinstitute.org
Phone: 602-730-3300 | Fax: 602-324-7583
Mailing Address:
Post Office Box 66422 | Phoenix, Arizona 85082
Office Address (no mail):
111 East Taylor Street | Phoenix, Arizona 85004
