Kenyon’s location at a cultural crossroads—a blue dot in a red county in a purple state—compels us to engage with our community and the world in order to shape perspectives and influence fundamental change.
“Even though Kenyon students may not agree with what you're saying, they'll take their time to listen to you and to engage with the idea you're presenting. That is something we really need in the world right now."
Sparking Conversation
The Center for the Study of American Democracy brings together the Kenyon community to debate the issues of today—no matter how controversial—through nonpartisan and civil discourse. The center also supports internships in Washington, D.C., and makes teaching and research opportunities possible for students and faculty.
After defeats in both the 2016 and 2018 elections, Knox County Democrats sought answers to why their candidates were voted down. Justin Sun ’20 investigated the polarization and divisiveness that marked these campaigns to uncover timely lessons for future elections.
“Free exchange of ideas is central to the values of a liberal arts education: Colleges and universities should be places where ideas are contested and challenged, not suppressed or shut out.”
Restoring a Community
As an intern with the Knox County Land Bank, Lucas Kreuzer ’20 worked to revitalize troubled properties in the neighborhoods surrounding Kenyon. His efforts will have lasting effects, increasing land values and attracting new investors and residents.
Engaging Opportunities
From sustainable agriculture to foreign language development, community-engaged learning (CEL) courses connect students to the people and issues affecting Knox County and beyond.
Featured Courses
Habitat and Humanity
As humans, we take the spaces that frame everyday life for granted, yet the places where we choose to dwell shape us into bearers of culture. In this course, we ask thought-provoking questions about the connections people and space, such as “Why do most Americans live in square spaces,” “What would it be like to live in a cave,” and “Can houses serve as spiritual places?”
Immigration, Citizenship and National Identity
This hands-on course partners Kenyon students with the Ohio-based Immigrant Worker Project to research cases of people seeking asylum from dangerous conditions of their home countries. Students learn about the complexities of the United States immigration system and the challenges that citizenship seekers face.
Politics of the Welfare State
More than a century ago, industrialized democracies throughout Europe and North America established welfare systems in an effort to reduce class inequalities. This course examines the politics surrounding the creation of these welfare states and explores the challenges facing a range of social programs, including pensions, health care and family policy.
Life Along the Kokosing
This seminar allows students to probe big questions about the meaning and significance of place through an intensive exploration of rural Knox County—the place Kenyon calls home. We’ll explore the history of our picturesque landscape and interact with individuals who have firsthand accounts of life alongside the winding Kokosing River.
