Hear Different Perspectives | Join The Debate | Discuss “Real World” Issues
Calling all high-school students!
As an Ambassador:
- Participate in online meetings: September - May
- Connect with a national network of peers in 9th-12th grade
- Stand out on college applications
- Seniors can compete for $5,000 scholarships
- Strengthen your knowledge & confidence
- Earn community service awards
- Access a private club online app
- Earn a senior graduation cord
No debate experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to participate!
Ready to Get Involved?
Details
The O'Connor Institute Ambassadors Civics & Debate Club is a free, online program for 9th through 12th-grade students presented by the Sandra Day O'Connor Institute. The O'Connor Institute Ambassadors promotes the Institute's three pillars: civil discourse, civics education, and civic engagement.
Overview
Each month, September through May, students meet online via Zoom to discuss civics-related topics as they apply to "real-world" issues. They have an opportunity to share their viewpoints and learn from peers across the country.
Outside of the meetings, O'Connor Institute Ambassadors have access to a private, free app where they can continue the conversations, find additional resources, and more.
Through the O'Connor Institute Ambassadors, high school students have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of our government, history, and our roles as citizens of the United States.
John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship
$5,000 For High School Seniors
The John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship Fund benefits high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, civil debate skills and civics knowledge. Established in memory of our late Institute colleague, Jay was passionate about equal justice and equal opportunity for all. His compassion for others was borne out by the volunteer work he did at the food bank, homeless shelter and tutoring for underserved and at risk youth. The scholarship is bestowed to exemplary members of our high school program, the O'Connor Institute Ambassadors Civics & Debate Club who personify the core values of the Institute.
Founded by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor following her retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court, the nonpartisan, nonprofit Institute continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American Democracy through multigenerational civics education, civil discourse and civic engagement.