Close Up Teaching Students about Life and Responsibilities of Individuals in a Denocracy

Eleanor Vogelsang joined Close Up Foundation in September 2015 with over 10 years of experience working for non-profit organizations. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, as Community Relations Manager, Ms. Vogelsang builds support with local organizations and individuals and raises funds to support low-income students’ participation on Close Up programs. Prior to joining the foundation, she spent over 7 years at the College Board, lobbying various state governments and the Federal government to increase access to rigorous coursework in underserved communities. She has also supported Democratic candidates and causes through her polling work with the Feldman Group and campaign work for the Colorado Democratic Party. 

Ms. Vogelsang received her M.A. in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University and her B.A. from Colorado College.

In 2014, only 36.3% of eligible voters turned out to vote in the United States. Youth aged 18-29 turned out at a significantly lower level than the national average, with only 19.9% showing up at the polls – the lowest recorded level since 18 years olds received the right to vote in 1971. Ensuring young people are prepared and motivated to actively participate in our democracy will be critical to the sustainability of our government. 

Close Up was founded in 1971 with a mission to inspire and empower students to be more civically minded citizens. Our week-long programs are rooted in a proven teaching methodology to foster long-term civic knowledge and community engagement. In my presentation, I will review the current status of civic education and discuss our work in the San Jose area.