At the Center for Rising Generations, we believe that young people have unique insight into what is most important to shape a healthy, just, and prosperous future for communities, states, and our nation.
We want to make sure that the voices of young people are heard, that their ideas are amplified, and that they have the opportunity to lead on the topics that matter the most.
At the Center for Rising Generations, we believe that young people have unique insight into what is most important to shape a healthy, just, and prosperous future for communities, states, and our nation.
We want to make sure that the voices of young people are heard, that their ideas are amplified, and that they have the opportunity to lead on the topics that matter the most.
Ready to Lead. Ready to Rise.
The Rising Generations Summit is your opportunity to step up, speak out, and shape the future! If you’re between the ages of 14 to 18, excited about making a difference, and ready to take action, this is for you. Whether you’re already leading in your community or just getting started, we believe every voice matters.
If you’ve identified a challenge in your neighborhood, state, or at the national level, we want to hear from you! Join a new wave of leaders for a powerful day in Washington, DC – connecting with Next-Gen disrupters, building tools to influence change, and making YOUR voice heard.
This isn’t just another sit-and-listen event, it’s a movement. If you’re passionate about driving impact, this is your moment to take action.
No experience necessary—just passion and ideas. Apply now and be part of the rising generation of leaders! Application deadline: April 25, 2025.
For those under 18, an adult chaperone will be required.
The Center for Rising Generations is dedicated to ensuring that civil dialogue, civic engagement, and leadership development become a predictable part of the journey to adulthood in our society, and around the world.
Inspired by the Aspen Institute’s strategic plan and supported by a generous endowment
from the Bezos Family Foundation, the Center for Rising Generations:
Works to expand opportunities for, and elevate the voices of, youth & young adults at the Aspen Institute
Creates opportunities to convene and build community beyond the Aspen Institute
Encourages innovation that helps emphasize the assets that young people bring to help address today’s challenges
The Center for Rising Generations was launched through a generous endowment from the Bezos Family Foundation. The Bezos Family Foundation supports rigorous, inspired learning environments for young people to put their education into action. The Foundation’s investments along a continuum from birth through high school aim to elevate the field of education and improve life outcomes for all children.
Inspired by the Aspen Institute’s strategic plan and supported by a generous endowment
from the Bezos Family Foundation, the Center for Rising Generations:
Works to expand opportunities for, and elevate the voices of, youth & young adults at the Aspen Institute
Creates opportunities to convene and build community beyond the Aspen Institute
Encourages innovation that helps emphasize the assets that young people bring to help address today’s challenges
The Center for Rising Generations was launched through a generous endowment from the Bezos Family Foundation. The Bezos Family Foundation supports rigorous, inspired learning environments for young people to put their education into action. The Foundation’s investments along a continuum from birth through high school aim to elevate the field of education and improve life outcomes for all children.
Kaya Henderson serves as Executive Vice President and Executive Director of the Center for Rising Generations at the Aspen Institute. Kaya has devoted her career, as a teacher, a leader, and an entrepreneur, to expanding opportunities for young people.
Peter Weber
Amy Glassman
Yasmine Elkharssa
Zach Epstein
Andy Flores
Kanika Mehra
Winter BreeAnne Minisee
Nam Nguyen
Josephine Bias Robinson
About Us
Kaya Henderson serves as Executive Vice President and Executive Director of the Center for Rising Generations at the Aspen Institute. Kaya has devoted her career, as a teacher, a leader, and an entrepreneur, to expanding opportunities for young people.
Peter Weber
Amy Glassman
Yasmine Elkharssa
Zach Epstein
Andy Flores
Kanika Mehra
Winter BreeAnne Minisee
Nam Nguyen
Josephine Bias Robinson
OUR PROGRAMS
