About Project Pericles

Project Pericles is a not-for-profit organization that encourages and facilitates commitments by colleges and universities to include social responsibility and participatory citizenship as essential elements of their educational programs.

Founded in 2001 by philanthropist Eugene M. Lang, Project Pericles works directly with its member institutions, called Pericleans, as they individually and collaboratively develop model civic engagement programs in their classrooms, on their campuses, and in their communities.

Currently, Periclean colleges and universities across the country are each implementing a unique program of curricular and co-curricular initiatives that prepare and encourage students to become active, responsible citizens. These initiatives include signature Periclean programs - the Civic Engagement Course (CEC) Program, Debating for Democracy (D4D), and the Periclean Faculty Leadership (PFL) Program - and constructively engage students, faculty, administrators, trustees, and alumni in a range of socially-oriented enterprises and collaborations.

By hosting annual meetings of presidents, faculty, and students, Project Pericles helps Pericleans share best practices that promote civic engagement as a significant element of higher education.

Project Pericles continues to earn recognition for its distinctive qualities and impact as its membership gradually expands. Project Pericles encourages higher education to promote a more just and compassionate society by preparing future generations of thoughtful and involved citizens.