In January 2017, outstanding students from across the United States gathered in the nation’s capital for the Presidential Inauguration Leadership Summit. During this five-day program, which takes place amid the Inauguration of the President of the United States, Summit Scholars gain a deeper understanding of the history behind the electoral process and the traditions surrounding the Presidential Inauguration.
Anjali Ahmed, a freshman student in Barbara Goleman’s National Security Intelligence program, was selected as a scholar for the event. Ahmed hopes to become a forensic scientist and join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The event took place January 18 through 22.
“The Presidential Inauguration Leadership Summit provides students with an opportunity to take part in historic events that coincide with the Inauguration of the President of the United States,” said Andrew Potter, the Chief Academic Officer for Envision and the Presidential Inauguration Leadership Summit.
Summit Scholars were inspired to become agents for change after hearing from an unparalleled slate of speakers, including Malala Yousafzai, General Colin Powell, Spike Lee, Abby Wambach, Carly Fiorina, Governor Martin O’Malley, and more. They also had a chance to put that inspiration into practice while participating in a Delegations for Change, a simulation where Summit Scholars worked together to create workable solutions to the challenges that their generation will face.
To further commemorate Inauguration Day, Summit Scholars attended the exclusive Envision Inaugural Gala, held at a Smithsonian Institution museum. In addition to participating in inaugural events and festivities, scholars also had the opportunity to explore the numerous historic sites and memorials in the nation’s capital, as well as participate in activities designed to expand their knowledge of democratic principles and the presidential election process.