A Year of Reckoning and Reimagining
One year into her role as Executive Director, Sanda Balaban reflects on Project Pericles’ journey of renewal, growth, and impact. From expanding programs and partnerships to shaping a bold strategic vision, her letter explores what higher education can and must do to strengthen democracy.
Course Spotlight: Centering Neurodivergent Voices and Community in the Classroom
At Hampshire College, Professor Gaurav Jashnani’s new course Autism & Neurodivergence in Psychology & Disability Studies centered neurodivergent voices and experiences, fostering an inclusive, supportive classroom community. Supported by a Periclean Course Enhancement grant, students created projects ranging from resource guides to workshops, deepening understanding of neurodiversity through the lenses of scholarship and activism.
Illuminating our Interns: Welcome Our Summer Interns: Nafees Abdullah and Junie Blaise
Every summer since 2018, Project Pericles has partnered with Prep for Prep, a leadership development and gifted program committed to providing lifelong academic and professional development opportunities for students of color. Through Prep for Prep’s Summer Internship Program, Project Pericles typically works with one to two students who care about making a difference in the world and are interested in working at the intersection of civic engagement, higher education, and nonprofits. Our newest Prep interns are Nafees Abdullah and Junie Blaise.
The July Periclean (2025)
The July 2025 Periclean reflects on Emerson’s call for moral courage in higher education, spotlights Sydney Tirschwell’s depolarization work at Carleton, and welcomes new staff and board members. Highlights also include Periclean engagement at global summer convenings from Prague to Aspen advancing democracy, pluralism, and civic leadership across higher education.
Pericleans and Partners Receive Recognition from the Bonner Foundation
At the Bonner Foundation’s Summer Leadership Institute and 35th Anniversary, Pericleans and partners were honored across multiple categories. These recognitions celebrate decades of leadership, innovation, and impact in civic and community engagement.
Student Spotlight: How Sydney Tirschwell Led the Charge on Depolarization at Carleton College
Carleton College graduate Sydney Tirschwell turned personal experience with polarization into action, founding CarlsVote and organizing a Braver Angels Depolarization Workshop with support from a Periclean Mini-Grant. Her efforts sparked student and faculty engagement, leaving a legacy of dialogue and empathy as she prepares for service in the Peace Corps.