ATHENS, GREECE – Democracy is not a spectator sport. For the student delegates of the Global Liberal Arts Alliance (GLAA), the 2025 Athens Democracy Forum was more than a conference; it was a catalyst. Embracing the Forum’s “Think, Talk, Do” impact chain, three students returned to their campuses not just with notes, but with blueprints for change.

Beata Karwaczka of Albion College took the spirit of the Forum’s intimate roundtable lunches back to Michigan. Inspired to recreate that magic, Beata secured a Civic Engagement Chapter Activity Grant from Pi Sigma Alpha, matched by her college. In February 2026, she will launch a “Civic Engagement Dinner Conversation,” bringing students and community members to the same table to tackle critical issues in healthcare, education, and the environment.

In Ecuador, Samantha Castro of Universidad San Francisco de Quito translated her experience into civic duty. Serving as an election observer for the November 2025 referendum, she helped her university earn its first mention in the Organization of American States interim report. Inspired by a conversation with London’s Deputy Mayor for Environment, Mete Coban, Samantha joined the “Green Helmets.” In a massive collaboration between the private sector and 300 student volunteers, she helped plant 800 trees, proving that environmental stewardship is a pillar of democratic health.

At Oberlin College, Tanisha Schende is addressing the intersection of democracy and technology. Working alongside Associate Dean Laura Baudot, Tanisha is co-developing “Introduction to Critical AI,” a course launching in Fall 2026. Beyond the curriculum, she is designing a prerequisite module on the safe use of AI, focusing specifically on emotional well-being and human relationships. By launching a student-led group on Critical AI, Tanisha is ensuring the next generation asks the hard questions about equity and governance in a digital age.

Your Turn: Athens 2026 As we approach the 10th anniversary of this program, the question is no longer just what you think, but what you will do. The call for nominations for the 2026 Athens Democracy Forum opens in early February. Contact your GLAA Liaison today and prepare to turn your interest into action.