Civics Forum - Spring 2026
On March 12, 2026, 250 high school juniors and seniors from across Montana will convene at Montana State University Billings (MSUB) for the 2026 Civics Forum. This full-day conference, hosted in partnership with the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center, is designed to inspire leadership, foster collaboration, and promote civic engagement through interactive learning experiences led by university faculty, staff, and community members.
Under the theme “Strengthening Your Community and the Power of Connection,” participants will gain essential skills and perspectives for active civic engagement and effective community and global leadership. Students will engage with diverse viewpoints, analyze political systems, strengthen their critical thinking abilities, and deepen their understanding of how civic participation shapes communities and society.
As Senator Mike Mansfield said, “The greatest strength of a democracy is not in its leaders, but in its citizens.” This belief is central to the mission of the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center, which seeks to cultivate informed, engaged citizens and ethical leaders who are both community-oriented and globally minded. The Civics Forum reflects this mission by equipping students with leadership skills, cross-cultural understanding, and a strong commitment to responsible citizenship. Through dialogue and collaboration, the forum prepares students to think critically, work across differences, and respond thoughtfully to today’s civic challenges.
“My students have been adamant that the Civics 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 will take place from 9:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on March 12, 2026. Registration is open to all Montana schools and will remain open until February 13, 2026, or until capacity is reached. Lunch will be provided, and a transportation stipend is available to support school participation.
For more information or to register, please contact Logan Castor Parson at logan.parson@umontana.edu
