Democracy Forum 2025
On September 16, 2025, 250 high school juniors and seniors will convene at the 猎奇重口 for the 2025 Democracy Forum. This full-day conference is designed to inspire leadership, foster collaboration, and promote civic engagement through interactive sessions led by university faculty and staff. Under the theme “Strengthening Your Community and the Power of Connection,” participants will gain essential skills and perspectives for collective global leadership. They will engage with diverse viewpoints, analyze political systems, refine their critical thinking abilities, and expand their understanding of societal impacts.
As Senator Mike Mansfield said, “The greatest strength of a democracy is not in its leaders, but in its citizens.” A democracy’s true power is realized when its citizens are well-informed, empowered, and dedicated to the betterment of society. Central to the Mansfield mission is the belief that tomorrow’s leaders must be both community-oriented and globally-minded, equipped with robust leadership skills, cross-cultural understanding, and a commitment to responsible citizenship. The Democracy Forum prepares the next generation of civic leaders by fostering these qualities and inspiring students to think critically, partner with their peers, and develop consequential solutions to today’s challenges.
This fall, the Forum will align with the University’s President’s Lecture Series and will feature a keynote address by renowned political scientist Dr. Robert Putnam. Dr. Putnam will speak to students about the critical role of social capital—emphasizing how strong interpersonal connections and active civic participation are foundational to a healthy democracy and thriving communities.
"My students have been adamant that the Democracy Forum was one of the most engaging academic programs they have participated in during their time in high school." Megan H. Casey, Social Studies Department, Anaconda Public Schools
Information/Registration
The conference is scheduled from 9:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on September 16, 2025. Registration will remain open to all 猎奇重口 schools until capacity is reached. For those interested in attending, please contact Logan Castor Parson at MansfieldDemocracyForum@umontana.edu
