We are a growing community of University of Washington undergraduate students who are passionate about public service, community engagement and civic leadership.

Through a combination of coursework, signature events and networking experiences, our goal is to connect like-minded peers and deepen an understanding and commitment to public service. NextGen is part of a growing network of similar programs across the country powered by the Volcker Alliance Next Generation Service Corps.

This network is open to all UW undergraduate students, year-round.

Our Community and Events

Throughout the academic year, the NextGen community engages in an array of activities that center on public service: from engaging with leaders in the field, skill building workshops, community service and networking events.

All NextGen Civic Leader Corps members are highly encouraged to take a minimum of one course in the Public Policy or Leadership minor. This coursework provides an academic anchor for your public service career exploration, builds your understanding of theoretical frameworks, and can prepare you to talk about your community-engagement and leadership experiences in job interviews and/or graduate school applications.

NextGen participants are strongly encouraged to consider a minor in Leadership or Public Policy.

In addition to participating in NextGen community events and connected coursework, we also provide support with searching for or reflecting on leadership opportunities. Leadership experience could be an internship, ongoing volunteering commitment, role in a public service organization or participation in a mentorship program. There are also opportunities to serve in a NextGen student leader position!

There are many ways to get involved in the NextGen community.

NextGen Network Members: Sign up for our weekly newsletter and attend a NextGen Signature Cohort Event. You’ll have opportunities to expand your network and develop new skills through an array of experiences.

NextGen Community Members: Members who attend at least one signature event per quarter, engage in a leadership experience, and take at least one connected course. You’ll receive:

• NextGen Civic Leader Corps Badge
• Graduation stole
• Receive priority consideration for two funded opportunities: the UW Alumni Reunion and Class Gifts Scholarship and Jackson Munro Public Service Fellowship

NextGen Scholars: Members who complete the above and minor in either Public Policy or Leadership. You’ll receive

• NextGen Civic Leader Corps Badge
• Graduation stole
• Transcripted minor

Joining NextGen is easy, there is no formal application process. The network is open to all University of Washington undergraduates. Those with a demonstrated history of work with underserved and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to consider participation.  

Ready to join NextGen? Sign up today.

You will receive an email welcome from our team followed by our weekly newsletter highlighting upcoming events and opportunities. We hope you’ll join us!

Please email nextgenleader@uw.edu with questions or set up a time to chat with Dahn Bi Lee-Hong (they/them), Student Engagement Coordinator, via Zoom or in person.