Civic Synergy is the University of Miami’s premier civic deliberation program for undergraduate students. Sponsored by the George P. Hanley Democracy Center, the program brings together students from across the political spectrum each semester to engage in thoughtful discussion on current events and collaborate on a policy proposal centered on a selected public issue.
The program reflects the Hanley Democracy Center’s mission on the University of Miami campus: to promote bipartisan collaboration through meaningful academic engagement, professional development, and civil conversation. Throughout the semester, participants learn from elected officials, community stakeholders, and academic experts whose work relates to the semester’s theme.
Civic Synergy is offered as a 1-credit course in the Department of Political Science under POL 410: Civic Synergy Workshop. Students who successfully complete the program earn one academic credit.
For Fall 2026, the program theme is Democracy and the Future of the Republic. Students will explore some of the most pressing issues in American public life, including immigration, climate, crime, education, housing, elections, and more. The semester will also feature guest speakers, including elected leaders and other experienced professionals.
Students interested in applying are encouraged to complete the application form below.
Click here to apply
For questions, please contact Program Director Dylan Long at dhl48@miami.edu or Assistant Program Director Charlotte Leatherman at cjl287@miami.edu.
For additional information about Civic Synergy, please visit the News tab to read press coverage and related articles about the program.
