What Happens When You Give Students a Seat at the Table: How Johnson & Johnson and Close Up Foundation Are Helping Build Civic Leaders

Photo rights belong to Johnson and Johnson, https://www.jnj.com/our-company/johnson-johnson-brings-new-jersey-students-to-washington-d-c-to-build-civic-leadership

Johnson & Johnson, in partnership with the Close Up Foundation, reaffirmed its commitment to civic engagement by sponsoring 11 high school students from across New Jersey to participate in an immersive experience in Washington, D.C. These Johnson & Johnson Scholars explored the workings of American democracy, engaged in meaningful dialogue across differences, and developed the leadership skills needed to build a more just and inclusive society. This initiative exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in strengthening civic understanding and empowering the next generation of changemakers. Read more in the blog post below.

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At the heart of dialogue and deliberation is a commitment to nurturing informed, engaged citizens—and this year, Johnson & Johnson reaffirmed that commitment by supporting the next generation of civic leaders from New Jersey. Through their ongoing partnership with the Close Up Foundation, Johnson & Johnson sponsored 11 high school students representing all 12 of the state’s congressional districts to participate in an immersive civic engagement experience in Washington, D.C.
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These Johnson & Johnson Scholars spent a transformative week exploring the structures of American democracy, engaging in rigorous discussion, and developing the skills to lead with empathy, curiosity, and purpose. This initiative aligns strongly with the National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation’s (NCDD) mission to deepen civic engagement, bridge divides, and equip communities with the tools to collaboratively shape a more equitable society.

Building Civic Understanding Through Immersive Experience

From walking the halls of the U.S. Capitol to participating in a mock Congress, the Close Up Washington program provided the students with tangible ways to understand and interact with civic institutions. They engaged with elected officials, learned from policy experts, and attended committee hearings that offered real-time insights into lawmaking and governance. These firsthand experiences not only brought textbooks to life—they gave students a seat at the table and a sense of ownership in shaping the future of their communities.
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The program was also designed to foster dialogue across differences. Students from diverse backgrounds and districts came together to examine public policy issues, share perspectives, and strengthen their capacity for collaborative problem-solving—core tenets of both the Close Up Foundation and NCDD. This peer-to-peer exchange was instrumental in helping students grow as empathetic listeners and courageous advocates, better prepared to engage in the kind of inclusive, equitable discourse that democracy requires.

Empowering Youth to Lead with Integrity and Vision

The Johnson & Johnson Scholars were selected not only for academic excellence but for their passion for civic life and community leadership. Many are already deeply involved in student government, Model UN, advocacy initiatives, and civic literacy efforts in their hometowns. Their participation in the Close Up program represents not just a learning opportunity, but a launching pad for future impact.

Students like Avery Garr, who founded a civics club at her school, and Candie Dong, who is committed to enhancing youth political literacy, embody the leadership values NCDD champions. Their stories reflect a powerful synergy between youth voice, institutional support, and the shared belief that young people are essential stewards of democratic renewal.
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By investing in these students, Johnson & Johnson is doing more than supporting education—it is helping build a more just, informed, and resilient society. Their work underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in advancing civic readiness and demonstrates how strategic partnerships can foster meaningful, long-term impact.

Strengthening Democracy—Together

This collaboration between Johnson & Johnson and the Close Up Foundation is a powerful example of how organizations can align efforts to empower emerging leaders, foster understanding, and sustain democratic engagement across generations.
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NCDD celebrates this initiative as a model for how public-private partnerships can support civic education and bridge the gap between institutions and individuals. As we work to create spaces for connection, reflection, and action, we are reminded that democracy flourishes when young people are heard, encouraged, and equipped to lead.

To learn more about this inspiring program and meet the 2025 Johnson & Johnson Scholars, visit:
https://www.jnj.com/our-company/johnson-johnson-brings-new-jersey-students-to-washington-d-c-to-build-civic-leadership