Hiram College Announces Yearlong Leadership Program

HIRAM, Ohio – Hiram College’s Garfield Center for Public Leadership announced a new partnership with Renew America Together to launch the Hiram cohort of the Civility Leadership Institute.

Retired Gen. Wesley Clark founded RATO in 2019. 

The nonprofit’s mission is to revitalize public political discourse by teaching and promoting civic, citizenship and civility through the Civility Leadership Institute – a yearlong leadership program.

“Hiram College exemplifies Renew America Together’s core values,” Clark said. “I am thrilled to be joining together to expand our program to help create a more educated and civil electorate, and I know Hiram College, in one of the most crucial states in our country, is the perfect partner for this work.”

Students, community leaders, Hiram alumni and others are encouraged to apply to be a part of the inaugural class. Approved applicants will join together virtually once a month for six months to explore communication styles, conflict resolution and topical subjects.

They will be joined by featured speakers from around the country to engage in conversations every month during the course. Upon completion of the six-month course, participants will engage in six additional months of measurement where they will demonstrate the impact they are making with skills learned. 

Program graduates will receive multiple professional certifications, become part of a nationwide alumni group and will be invited to participate in continued training, education and networking opportunities. 

James Thompson, associate professor of political science and director of the Garfield Center for Public Leadership at Hiram College, said Hiram College’s partnership with the CLI provides an opportunity for many people to participate in the cultivation of civil discourse.

“Through this program, participants will not only develop vital skills pertaining to this activity,” Thompson said. “They will also engage in discussions with individuals from different political backgrounds to address pressing issues of the day, thus learning by doing, while also meeting lots of interesting people.” 
Applications will be open through May 20. More information about the program is available HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.