The Center for Leadership and American Principles at Jacksonville State University is dedicated to strengthening civic knowledge, advancing the study of civil rights, religion, and economic democracy, improving civic discourse, and preparing leaders who understand the foundations of American democracy.
Through coursework, teacher development, public engagement, and partnerships with other organizations, the Center prepares leaders and supports excellence in civics education across Alabama based on the principles of American government.
The Center for Leadership and American Principles engages the campus, community, and classroom to strengthen civic education in Alabama. Through teaching, experiential learning, research, public outreach, and professional development in K–12 education, the Center supports the foundational ideas of American government and statesmanship necessary for the dual demands of civic leadership and workforce development.
The Center gives particular attention to the role of religion, civil rights, and economic democracy in American public life. It works to connect civic knowledge and civic skills to ethical leadership, workforce development, and democratic participation to support the foundational principles of American life.
Strengthening academic excellence in civics and American principles
The Center ensures rigorous academic standards while cultivating intellectual diversity and serious scholarship in American civics across numerous academic fields to develop the statesmanship skills necessary for leadership in the community, workplace, and government.
Connecting the university with the public
Through civic discourse, public lectures, experiential learning, and statewide partnerships, the Center engages community members, employers, and state leaders in meaningful dialogue about American democracy. democracy.
Supporting K–12 teachers and future educators
The Center works directly with Alabama pre-service and in-service educators to enhance civics instruction and equip teachers with practical, research-based tools for stronger classrooms, which includes the use of primary sources.
