7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.        

Breakfast Available  

9:00 a.m. 

Welcome & Opening Remarks

9:15 a.m. 

Introduction from Program Facilitators: Gabe Lerner and Cassie Haynes

9:30 a.m. 

Panel—Lifting Our Gaze: Higher Education, Journalism, and the Future of Civic Life 
Natalie Furlett ■■ Gabe Lerner (M) ■■ Beverly Sanford ■■ Richard Watts

This panel brings together leaders from higher education and journalism to broaden our
understanding of civic engagement and civic health. We'll explore emerging trends and
critical insights from these influential sectors, examining how they perceive the evolving
landscape of civic participation. Panelists will share their unique perspectives on the
interconnections between these fields and discuss innovative ways their organizations are
partnering with communities to strengthen our collective civic fabric. Join us to gain a
"big picture" view and discover new approaches to fostering a more engaged and healthy citizenry.

10:30 a.m. 

Table Conversations: Libraries, Community, and Civic Health
Natalie Furlett ■■ Paul Jaeger ■■ Nancy Kranich ■■ Jake Nadal ■■ Beverly Sanford ■■ Richard Watts

Join us for intimate table conversations where you'll connect with peers and leaders in the
library and civic health fields. We'll explore the vital role libraries play in fostering robust
civic health within communities. Share your insights and discover innovative ways libraries
are acting as essential hubs for civic engagement and well-being.

Conversation Topics:

• Campus Compact
• Citizen Science as Civic Engagement
• Civic Literacy
• Institute for Citizens & Scholars
• Locally Focused Advocacy and Policy
• National Records and Democracy
• Supporting Local News
• Working with Government Relations

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.              

Break

11:15 a.m.

Keynote—Unlocking Community Power: Asset Mapping for Deeper Engagement with Shamichael Hallman

Join Shamichael Hallman of the Urban Libraries Council and author of Meet Me at the
Library for an inspiring keynote that will transform how you view your community. This
session will delve into the powerful practice of asset mapping—a dynamic approach to
identifying and leveraging the hidden strengths, resources, and connections that already
exist within the communities you serve. Shamichael will share compelling insights and
practical strategies, empowering you to step beyond traditional boundaries, forge
authentic relationships, and discover new pathways to collaborative impact.

12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Lunch Buffet & Civic Engagement in Your World Presentation

1:45 p.m.

Workshop: Narrative as Infrastructure

This interactive workshop will equip research library leaders with a frame—and
concrete tools—for telling the story of their institution’s civic role in a way that
inspires internal and external allies, garners public trust, and unlocks new partnerships.

3:30 p.m.

Wrap-up & Closing Remarks

3:45 p.m. 

Institute Adjourns