The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) announced that it is now accepting applications for its "Future Presidents of America” program from high school students in nine central Illinois counties. The program, which is open to students aged 13 to 16, is designed to develop individual confidence, good citizenship, and leadership skills, while also exploring Abraham Lincoln's leadership and impact on history. The program is offered through a partnership with the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and involves meeting with leaders in fields such as politics, history, and the arts for five days in June. Participants are also given a real problem faced by a local organization to solve.
"Working with students in the Future Presidents of America program has become a highlight of our year,” said ALPLM Education Director Heather Nice. "We’re excited that students from more of central Illinois will now be able to join us for this week of challenges, growth, and fun.”
Previously, participants in the Future Presidents program had to be nominated by school officials, and only schools in Sangamon and Macon counties took part. But now, students in nine counties can apply on their own, and one-third of spaces in the program will be determined by this open application process. This new application process will open up this opportunity to a wider array of students from a broader geographic area. There is no cost to participate in the program, and the deadline to apply is May 15.
"The Future Presidents program has introduced some amazing students to new ideas and new possibilities. It’s heartwarming to picture them stepping up as tomorrow’s leaders,” said Christina Shutt, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. "This new application process will open this opportunity to a wider array of students from a broader geographic area.”
More information on the program and the application link can be found under the "Learn” tab of the ALPLM’s website.