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Student Conferences

Bringing high schoolers together from across the country to practice deliberation, take on civic action, and build leadership skills for the future. 

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A forum for young people to discuss, deliberate, and make plans for their communities.

At a time when young Americans are seeking opportunities for face-to-face connection, Close Up’s student conferences foster genuine dialogue among youth of different backgrounds, perspectives, and worldviews. From NextGen Roundtable deliberations to our annual student leadership conferences, these nationwide gatherings help young people develop the connections, leadership skills, and vision they need to work on behalf of their communities.

Join the Student Conference Info Session on September 23, 2026 at 12-1pm EST to hear how our three distinct student conferences will focus on civil discourse, civic leadership, and active citizenship. At this time, we will also discuss the three corresponding educator conferences available for faculty advisors.

Upcoming Student Conferences

 

NextGen Roundtable: Deliberative Youth Summit

A NextGen Roundtable student deliberation and educator program hosted by Close Up and the Stanford University Deliberative Democracy Lab. Learn More >

NAIS Student Civic Leadership Summit

Engage with young leaders in D.C. to make a lasting community impact! Learn More >

Montgomery Youth Summit

A summit for high school students and educators, exploring history, storytelling, and civic action alongside the Equal Justice Initiative's Legacy Sites in Montgomery, Alabama. Learn More >