Herzog Foundation and Young America’s Foundation Host Inaugural Faith & Nation Student Forum for High School Seniors

Seventy high school seniors from Christian schools and homeschools across the country gathered last week for the inaugural Faith & Nation Student Forum, hosted by the Herzog Foundation in partnership with Young America’s Foundation. The four-day event offered students a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of faith, leadership, and societal challenges, featuring expert speakers and engaging activities designed to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders.

Keynote speakers included former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, author Dr. Ryan T. Anderson, and economist Daniel Di Martino. Students explored topics such as Christian leadership in government, the moral case for free-market capitalism, the perils of socialism, and how to address cultural narratives on issues like gender and identity.

Daniel Di Martino, whose family fled socialism in Venezuela, warned, “The growth of government over time really concerns me… even during the pandemic, we allowed the government to do things we never imagined.”

Interactive breakout sessions allowed students to reflect on the lessons and discuss real-world applications. These discussions, led by Herzog Foundation Ambassadors—recent college graduates participating in the Foundation’s national outreach program—encouraged students to sharpen their critical thinking and conversational skills.

“Learning how to have these discussions without becoming argumentative but opening up conversations has been one of the biggest takeaways,” said Gillian Carson of Providence Academy in Arkansas.

The forum wasn’t all work. Students enjoyed activities like horseback riding, archery, and a lively election night party. Teachers, who accompanied their students, held separate discussions to exchange ideas on integrating biblical worldviews with education.

Gregg Preston, a teacher at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in Minnesota, praised the event: “The range of speakers—from apologetics to social issues—was top-notch. Students received a strong foundation in biblical theology and practical worldview issues that will prepare them to engage the culture as salt and light.”

“By all indicators, including feedback both from students and from teachers, the inaugural Faith & Nation Student Forum was a great success in helping connect the biblical worldview of Christian students with the current social issues of our day,” said Herzog Foundation President Darrell Jones. “As we wrap up this year’s event, our team looks forward to rolling up our sleeves and developing next year’s student forum.”

Students left the event inspired and better prepared to lead with conviction. Ella Sterling of Cair Paravel Latin School in Kansas reflected, “Hearing the real truths that God has present in the social issues of our society has really impacted me. Being here with fellow Christians has greatly affected my faith and confidence.”

The Herzog Foundation and Young America’s Foundation look forward to continuing their partnership to inspire young leaders to uphold and defend their faith in a rapidly changing world.

About the Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation

The Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation is a charitable foundation dedicated to catalyzing and accelerating the development of quality Christ-centered K-12 education so that families and culture flourish.

Learn more at HerzogFoundation.com.