Engage with the Great Works of the Ancient and Modern World.

About Us

Ashbrook’s Humanities Citizenship Initiative is a weeklong program on the campus of Ashland University that provides students with the college-level skills necessary to read and analyze great literature by engaging in discussion and debate. Students selected for HCI receive a scholarship that fully funds their experience due to program support that has been generously provided by the Teagle Foundation.

Students will spend their time in the program exploring great ideas in works from Plato, Shakespeare, Frederick Douglass, and many others allowing them to examine civic concepts both ancient and contemporary. In addition to these studies, students will learn what college life is like, explore scholarship and tuition opportunities with college professionals, learn how to apply to college and navigate the college admissions process, and develop familiarity with the college classroom setting all while receiving college credit for their work.

Meet the faculty

Chris Burkett

Associate Professor of Political Science
Ashland University

Greg McBrayer

Associate Professor of Political Science
Ashland University

faq

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How much does HCI cost?

Nothing! It’s completely free to those who are selected due to generous support from the Harry and Lynde Bradley Foundation and the Teagle Foundation. All expenses related to the program are paid including travel, food, housing, shuttle to and from the airport, and books.

How do I apply to be part of HCI?

Ashbrook has established relationships with a number of Title I schools across the country who assist us in finding qualified students to participate in HCI. If you’d like to nominate your school to be a part of HCI, contact us at hci@ashbrook.org.

What will students learn at HCI?

HCI focuses on a study of classic literature and philosophy from Plato, Aristotle, and Shakespeare to the American Founders, Frederick Douglass, and W.E.B. DuBois. Our conversations are not simply limited to the classics, though. We also help students become more knowledgeable about the benefits of a college education along with advice on applying to colleges and seeking financial aid. Students will also be given opportunities to improve their writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills.