Eastern Michigan University will host the 2026 MiCivics Coalition Summit on March 10 as part of Civic Learning Week. The event, organized by EMU’s Jiu-Hwa Lo Upshur Institute for Civic Education, will be held at the Student Center in Ypsilanti from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The MiCivics Coalition aims to raise awareness about democratic rights in Michigan and create opportunities for practicing civic skills. This year’s keynote speaker is Noreen Naseem Rodríguez, a professor at Michigan State University specializing in elementary education and educational justice.
“We aren’t just teaching students how a bill becomes a law; we are empowering them to believe they have a stake in the outcome,” said Brigid Beaubien, EMU professor and director of the Upshur Institute for Civic Education. “By the end of this summit, participants will be ready to return to their communities not just as instructors, but as architects of a more engaged and informed Michigan.”
The summit theme is “America 250: We The People,” focusing on civic education resources and impact. Attendees will have access to knowledge and skills that support civic engagement efforts.
Rodríguez will present her book, “Social Studies for a Better World: An Anti-Oppressive Approach for Elementary Educators,” and introduce an educational framework for middle and high school classrooms.
“At the heart of the Michigan Civic Learning Week Summit is a singular, urgent mission: to transform the classroom into a vibrant laboratory for democracy,” said Beaubien. “Our goal is to move beyond the rote memorization of dates and branches of government, instead equipping educators and future leaders with the tools to foster critical thinking, empathetic dialogue, and active community participation.”
The MiCivics Coalition also works on professional learning initiatives aimed at improving content knowledge and teaching strategies. It supports pre-service teacher education programs and student programming to strengthen civic readiness across Michigan.
EMU students can register for free attendance at the summit, which includes LBC credit as well as complimentary meals and parking.
Founded in 1849 with an initial focus on teacher preparation, Eastern Michigan University has grown into a comprehensive public university offering more than 200 undergraduate majors and minors along with graduate programs. The university’s campus combines historic architecture with modern facilities designed to support student success. EMU has received national recognition for its academic programs in fields such as education and health sciences. According to its official website, EMU prepares students through hands-on learning experiences that build critical thinking skills needed for societal contributions.
James Smith has served as president of Eastern Michigan University. The institution emphasizes career readiness by connecting students with professional networks through partnerships and personalized support initiatives (source).
