The CAPITAL Conference

Campuses Advancing Public Investment Through Active Learning

The Event

On a beautiful Saturday in October, the first annual CAPITAL Conference brought together students from across the state for a chance to share stories, experiences, ideas and resources around service and student engagement. With seven Oregon schools represented, the event kicked-off with a keynote address from Kyle Corbin, an Eastern Oregon University Sophomore and, at age 18, mayor of his hometown, Union, Oregon. Kyle spoke to why he decided to pursue a political position in Union, and how he has succeeded in overcoming challenges as one of the nation’s youngest mayors.

During the afternoon, students took part in a series of workshops covering student-led alternative breaks and service plunges, on-campus advocacy initiatives, state and national efforts around climate change, experimental democracy models and more. Between workshop sessions, a non-profit service fair featuring local and national non-profit agencies allowed students to connect with organizations aimed at addressing important social issues and creating healthy communities.

Another young leader wrapped-up the event; Charlene McGee of Portland relayed to students the importance of courage and persistence when it comes to making change. Charlene is one of the nation’s youngest regional NAACP presidents and an Oregon State University alum. Since moving to Oregon from war-torn Liberia with her family, she has been active in her community through both service and leadership.

NEXT STEPS

As one participant put it, “this conference had an extraordinary energy and perspective, namely that [service] should be and can be a part of everyone's life. Who better to lead the population to this reality than students!”

As issues including climate change, poverty, education, equitable opportunity, healthcare, and food sustainability become increasingly urgent, NOW is the time for students to mobilize their voice.

Through collaboration, open discussion and resource sharing, students throughout Oregon, the nation and the world are in an amazing position to develop creative solutions to our most pressing challenges!

Over the next few weeks and months, Oregon Campus Compact will be providing more opportunities for students to connect with one another, as well as resources and funding for student-led initiatives.