For students interested in civic engagement, public service, political engagement, dialogue across divides, civic leadership, and leadership.

Students within any major can apply.

The Civic Leadership Scholars Living-Learning Community with the Madison Center offers students a dynamic, hands-on environment to explore the principles and practices of civic engagement. Designed for students passionate about public service, civic impact, and leadership, this residential program combines academic learning with immersive experiences outside the classroom. Participants take part in field trips to historical sites like Montpelier, government institutions, and nonprofit organizations across Virginia and Washington, D.C., providing real-world context to classroom discussions.

A hallmark of the program is its mentorship model, where students engage regularly with civic leaders—such as elected officials, community organizers, and nonprofit executives and public officials who offer guidance, inspiration, and professional insight. Through experiential learning opportunities like service projects and facilitated dialogue sessions, students deepen their understanding of democracy in action while developing the skills needed to lead with integrity and impact. 

Civic Leadership Scholars residents will take CIV 150: Mechanics of Democracy as a cohort in the fall semester which will earn them credit toward completing the civic leadership minor. In the spring semester, students will take REL 102 together as a cohort, focusing on religious pluralism and civic discourse. REL 102 is a general education course, guaranteeing students have access to this course.