Shaping the Future: National Youth Summit on Elections & Politics

September 27, 2024 News

The Michigan State University Museum was proud to collaborate on the 11th Annual Smithsonian National Youth Summit on September 20, 2024, focusing on “Elections & Politics.” As Michigan’s first Affiliate of the Smithsonian, we had the incredible opportunity to bring young adults together to discuss the importance of civic engagement and political participation. Engaging young adults in voting and civic life is critical for a vibrant democracy. Events like this help empower the next generation to understand the importance of their voice in shaping the future.

Our local program, in collaboration with WKAR at Michigan State University, featured a diverse panel of speakers from the Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU), the East Lansing City Clerk’s Office, and the University and Youth Commission. Their insights were invaluable, shedding light on how students can make an impact in both local and national elections.

A panel discussion at the 2024 National Youth Summit on Elections and Politics. Three panelists, including two young people, sit on stage in front of a large screen showing the summit's logo and graphics. The stage is branded with the logos of the National Museum of American History, WKAR, PBS, and NPR. One panelist is holding a microphone, engaged in conversation.
A diverse panel of four people, including three young individuals and one older adult, sits on stage during a discussion at the 2024 National Youth Summit. The participants hold microphones, and the backdrop features the logos of WKAR, PBS, and NPR. The adult panelist is speaking while the younger participants listen attentively.
A panel featuring three individuals is seated on stage during the 2024 National Youth Summit. The moderator holds a notepad and microphone while leading the discussion. The two other panelists, a young woman and a young man, listen and prepare to speak. WKAR and PBS logos are displayed prominently on the backdrop.