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Become a Moderator for NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026

July 8-11, 2026 | Washington, D.C. 

We’re looking for college students to help first-time voters engage with diverse perspectives. 

 

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Help young Americans build the vital skills of critical thinking!

Are you a current university student with an interest in building a nationwide culture of civil discourse? We’re seeking college students to train and work alongside Close Up instructors to facilitate the small-group deliberations at NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026 this July 8-11 in Washington, D.C. 

To take part, you must:  

  • Be comfortable facilitating group discussions such as focus groups.       
  • Be able to remain neutral and withhold your own opinions while creating a good atmosphere for discussion.      
  • Have excellent skills in speaking, reading, and writing the English language.      
  • Be available for an online orientation, a half-day of in-person training  on July 8, and two full days of in-person facilitating on July 9-10.
  • Successfully complete a background check.     

We’re accepting applications on a rolling basis through April 30—apply today! 

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What will moderators do at NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026?

As a moderator, you’ll work alongside Close Up staff to facilitate thoughtful discussion among participants by posing questions, guiding Q&As, and ensuring that diverse themes and viewpoints are considered. No prior experience or policy expertise is required, just a commitment to helping young people think critically and engage thoughtfully across differences. For facilitating, you’ll earn a stipend of $1,000 and Close Up’s Deliberative Dialogue Badge.  

*Please note that Close Up cannot cover travel expenses or hotel accommodations.  

About Close Up
About the Stanford University Deliberative Democracy Lab
About Generation Lab
About the Hoover Institution's Center for Revitalizing American Institutions
  • Are you an educator? Join us for the concurrent Civil Discourse Lab in Washington, D.C.!

 

Student Registration

Will you be 18 and a first-time voter in 2026? Learn how you can participate! Learn More >

Civil Discourse Lab for Educators

Attend our PD institute to gain the training, skills, and tools to foster civil discourse at school. Learn More >

Support Us

Help make sure students from your community have the chance to attend! Learn More >

NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026

Participate in a historic deliberation of pressing national issues ahead of the midterm elections.  Learn More >

Join Us as an Observer

Witness deliberative dialogue and civil discourse in action! Learn More >

Media

Interested in covering NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026? Learn More >