Inspiring the next generation of Appalachian Civic Leaders
The Appalachian Civic Fellowship is a free summer academy that exposes high schoolers in Central Appalachia to the ideas, texts, and thinkers behind America’s democratic tradition.
Student Testimonials
Hear what our past fellows have to say.
“The most profound of my memories from ACF was seeing empowered peers use their voices, most notably hearing a beautiful poem about Thomas Hobbes’ Leviathan and debating Hobbes and Locke with other fellows. This empowerment and belief are unwavering throughout the weeks of the ACF and beyond.
The relationships I built during the Appalachian Civic Fellowship taught me the power of having mentors who are young enough to understand your experiences, but wise enough to give you advice. I was thrilled to have an opportunity to dive into complex texts with a group of fellows and mentors who were able to provide insight and explanation during discussion.
I will never forget the weeks of ACF, and to any student curious about America, civics, reading, or learning, you won’t either. ACF pushes you to think in ways you're not prepared for, and aids in establishing a patriotic foundation rooted in knowledge and perspective which will continue to serve you well after the fellowship.”
—Ava June Tackett, 2025 Fellow
Johnson County, Kentucky
“The Allegheny Civic Fellowship was an outstanding opportunity for me to step into philosophy, political sciences, and literature. With a welcoming and open environment, class at the fellowship taught me more than any other classroom I have been in. Friendships extended beyond studies and into every aspect of life, continuing even after graduation. ACF truly opened countless doors for me, steered my eyes to the stories around me, and gave me a confidence I never before had seen in myself. I recommend this program to every student, especially those who think its a reach for them.”
—Lottie Musick, 2025 Fellow
Pike County, Kentucky
“One year of the Allegheny Civic Fellowship just wasn’t enough for me, so I came back for a second summer. This program taught me so much about civics, politics, and philosophy in ways that I never would have learned elsewhere. Beyond the knowledge I gained, I made friendships and connections that I’ll never forget. Brennan, Leo, and the other counselors created an encouraging environment that made learning engaging and meaningful. I highly recommend the ACF to anyone looking to grow, challenge themselves, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.”
—Nicole Thompson, 2025 & 2026 Fellow
Pike County, Kentucky
“The transition from high school to college is always an interesting time in one’s life, but I was scared that the journey I was about to embark on was the wrong direction for my life. However, the ACF was the window into my future that I needed to be sure of my major and of whether I was right for the McConnell program, a collegiate fellowship with a focus on political science.
It made me confident in my abilities and set me up for success with a headstart on the concepts of government and philosophy. I was so inspired by what I learned at the program that I felt that I needed to give my community the same experience that was given to me. There’s nothing else like this program in this region of America, and we’re inspiring the future leaders of Pikeville, Kentucky, and the United States one great book at a time.
—Landon Williams, 2025 Fellow & 2026 Counselor
Floyd County, Kentucky
Our Sponsors & Partners
Contact Our Teachers
Want to learn more about our program? Use the email or phone number below to get in contact with our teachers today.
Email: appalachiancivicfellowship@gmail.com
Phone: 973-747-7660
