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Year of Civic Leadership
About Civic Leadership
About Civic Leadership
Civic leadership at William & Mary rests on the conviction that knowledge carries responsibility, and that wisdom, formed over time, must be placed in service to the common good. From its founding, the university and its people have played a formative role in the life of the republic, understanding leadership as a moral charge — shaped by history, guided by reason and entrusted to each generation in turn.
At William & Mary, civic leaders listen across difference, reason with care and act with integrity. They cultivate trust, sustain partnerships and commit themselves to work that endures beyond the moment. Rooted in the values of Service and Integrity, civic leadership calls each of us to steward our communities — and the nation — with humility, courage and reverence for what is perpetual and universal.
The Year of Civic Leadership celebrates William & Mary's enduring commitment to service, public stewardship and leadership in service of the common good. The yearlong initiative invites the W&M community to engage through events, explore resources and tell stories that highlight civic leadership across campus, in our communities and around the world.
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FEATURED EVENT
The New American Dream: 250 Years Later
A Moderated Conversation with Rich Harwood
April 7, 2026, 6pm - 8pm
Alan B. Miller Hall (Business School), Brinkley Commons
William & Mary is partnering with The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation to host The New American Dream: 250 Years Later, a moderated conversation between Rich Harwood, faculty member Rebekah Sterling, and student Jackson Webb ’28 exploring how communities can strengthen civic life and move forward together during a time of national division and change. As part of the Year of Civic Leadership, W&M invites the campus and broader community to reflect on the future of American democracy and our shared civic responsibility.
Goals
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Historic Significance
Celebrate William & Mary’s foundational role in establishing democracy in the United States.
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Global Engagement
Affirm our commitment to preparing generations of civic leaders to serve our nation and world with distinction.
For the Common Good
William & Mary's 2026 Charter Day marked centuries of preparing leaders and ushered in the Year of Civic Leadership.
At a Glance
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70 %of students participate in community service with 60+ community service groups
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13:1W&M's student/faculty ratio creates robust opportunities for dialogue and shared inquiry
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1 stU.S. institution with a royal charter and only school to receive a coat of arms from the College of Arms
Current Programming
Events
Promote the Year of Civic Leadership
Download and use Year of Civic Leadership digital assets, including virtual backgrounds.