November 15-16, 2024
Wartburg College
Program information and schedule can be accessed here.
Seed Coalition’s Civic Action Academy is the only regional student conference that focuses on civic and
community engagement.
Conference Overview
[The Civic Action Academy] was a great mix of inspirational advice with specific ideas and tools to use. I appreciated hearing from people who have different backgrounds and experiences… This experience empowered and inspired me to take action on my own campus using resources and ideas I gained at the event.
Participant
Each November, the Civic Action Academy serves as a hub for students passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. Students gain access to a wide range of experiences, ideas, and approaches to civic engagement, giving them the chance to learn from each other, share best practices, and build valuable connections that can support their future endeavors. Our goal is to offer skill-building in civic action, deepening students’ understanding of how to effectively and collaboratively address social issues.
Student Presenters
In addition to professional keynotes and community experts, at least half of our conference sessions are presented by students doing civic and community engagement work on their campuses. Sessions might include building awareness, lessons on leadership and community building, sharing research, highlighting effective programs and projects, and more. Typically, students apply because a campus mentor encourages them to. We invite faculty and staff to refer students any time of the year, and we will connect with them to help develop their ideas for the coming year.
2024 Conference Information
Important Resources
Student speaker nomination + application
Funding resource: This resource includes event information, rationale, and budget items to help students who wish to request funding from their school or outside sources.
Conference schedule: Please note that the event schedule is still being developed and will continue to be updated through September and October. We hope that early access will help you plan.
Pricing
- Early Bird – Until October 15, $50 for Seed Coalition member campuses ($100 for non-member campuses)
- General conference – after October 15, $70 for Seed Coalition member campuses ($140 for non-member campuses)
- Student Leader Workshop (optional pre-conference) – $20 for Seed Coalition member campuses ($50 for non-member campuses)
A staff/faculty advisor can attend for free.
New this year, we are offering an option for campuses coordinating large groups of students to submit registration info via a spreadsheet. We will send an invoice to pay for the full group. Contact Kara Trebil-Smith for more info.
Lodging
There are currently two room blocks reserved at the Super 8 ($87 per night) and Cobblestone Hotel ($142 per night) in Waverly. When calling to make your reservation, please mention the Civic Action Academy in order to receive the rate stated above. Be sure to book your hotel room by October 15.
Questions can be directed to Kara Trebil-Smith.
