University Park

Center for the Study of Free Institutions and Civic Education formed

The College of Education at Penn State has received $500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to create a Center for the Study of Free Institutions and Civic Education (FICE Center).

David Saxe, associate professor of education is the director of the new center, which will serve Penn State students, faculty, community members, alumni and citizens in the Commonwealth and beyond.

The FICE Center will offer opportunities to study, research and discuss Western civilization, free institutions and American history. The center is developing academic programs that will qualify students for PA Citizenship Education teacher certification as well as prepare students for work with museums, living-history sites, foundations, government, media and other places where there is interest in Western civilization and American history.

In addition to classes and programs, FICE activities will include symposia, educational and research programs, celebrations and performances, and publications. The center will provide outreach to schools, businesses, alumni and private organizations, and local, state, and federal agencies.

For more information on the Center for the Study of Free Institutions and Civic Education, contact David Saxe at dws7@psu.edu via e-mail.

Last Updated March 19, 2009

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