I have known of the Institute for a few years. I learned this year of the special online program: The Constitution Series. The first program I watched, the Paradox of Liberty: Slavery at Jefferson's Monticello was absolutely riveting. The fact that these original, thoughtful and educational productions are free to the public at large is the indication of a generous organization. Further, in these very divisive times, the O'Connor Institute has demonstrated that education and civil discourse are still possible and should be valued.
Each of the lectures are available via Youtube. The programs were so worth my time, and I learned so much from them. I have encouraged friends and family to watch this important programming.
The O'Connor Institute is a national treasure. All ages can benefit from the knowledge presented and the reminder that despite differences, we can come together for civil discourse!
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- info@oconnorinstitute.org
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Nonprofit Overview
Mission: Founded in 2009 by retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the O’Connor Institute For American Democracy, a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3), continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American democracy through civics education, civic engagement and civil discourse.
Results: The success of the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy is measured through engagement metrics, learning outcomes, and participant feedback. Our programs are designed to increase civics knowledge and civic values, build leadership, communication, collaboration, expand civic engagement, and develop civil discourse and critical thinking skills. Key engagement metrics include: • Over 1100 youth program participants • Nearly 500,000 website visitors engage with civics resources annually. More than 26,000 participants take the monthly civics quiz. • 83,221 views on YouTube educational content in the past year. • Increased voter participation and civic engagement among program participants. By providing free, accessible, and engaging civic education, the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute empowers citizens to actively participate in shaping healthier communities and the nation. Webcasts/Podcasts: Nearly 20,000 people viewed our webcasts on our YouTube Channels and here are the top 3 downloads: 1. The Pros and Cons of Open Primaries and Ranked Choice Voting 2. Why Inflation Happens, with John Cochrane 3. How Are Secretaries of State Preparing for the November Election? Engaging with future leaders through unique youth programs is a great way to improve civic education and engagement! More than 650 students participated in the O’Connor Institute Ambassador Online Civics & Debate Club in the 2024-2025 school year, with more enrollments each day. In 2024, the Institute welcomed the largest group of campers to date, with more than 100 middle school students from 20 states participating in Camp O’Connor USA 2024. The 2024-2025 Civics Challenge saw tremendous talent, with over 350 submissions, we cannot wait to share the next round of winners. We have witnessed students continuing to benefit from these programs through increased civics comprehension and greater participation in their school activities, including student government leadership. We fully expect that they will become informed citizens who vote and participate in the democratic process and their local communities.
Target demographics: youth and multigenerational
Direct beneficiaries per year: Over 1,000 students and nearly 500,000 online users
Geographic areas served: Across the United States
Programs: 1. Civics Education Initiatives • Civics for Life: A program offering free, nonpartisan civics education resources for all ages. • Camp O’Connor: A civics leadership program for middle school students to develop leadership skills and civic knowledge. • Online Resources: Digital tools and lesson plans to help educators teach civic principles effectively. 2. Encouraging Civil Discourse • Issues & Answers Broadcast: Hosting influential speakers to discuss pressing civic and policy issues in a respectful, balanced way. • Conversation Series broadcasts: Educational discussions on the U.S. Constitution and its relevance today. • Public Square civic discussions: Forums where individuals can engage in meaningful dialogue on civic and policy matters. 3. Civic Engagement Programs • O'Connor Institute Ambassadors Online Civics & Debate Club: A program aimed at engaging young leaders in civic participation and public service. • Public Policy Research: Providing research and insights on key democratic issues to foster informed decision-making. • O’Connor House: The Institute conserves the historic former home of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as preserving items from Justice O’Connor’s extraordinary life and career in our archives. • The Sandra Day O’Connor Digital Library and Resource Center: The world’s largest and most comprehensive online archives of Sandra Day O’Connor, the library provides an important educational resource. The O’Connor Digital Library catalogs Justice O’Connor’s Supreme Court opinions, writings, video interviews, Senate confirmation hearings, legislation she sponsored as a state Senator and Majority Leader, photographs and more. 4. Nonpartisan Research & Thought Leadership • Publications and Reports: Producing educational materials that promote an understanding of democracy and governance. • History Dinner, Legacy Luncheon and Patrons Circle Salons: The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute is proud to collaborate with distinguished speakers for a variety of events. From world leaders to authors to celebrities in many genres, we have led thought-provoking discussions that further Justice O’Connor’s efforts in civic engagement, education, and civil discourse. By implementing these strategies, the O’Connor Institute works to strengthen democracy, educate future leaders, and promote respectful civic dialogue—all in the spirit of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s legacy.