“Spring is the time of plans and projects,” Tolstoy noted in Anna Karenina. As Phi Beta Kappa’s new strategic plan outlines the Society’s path forward, we are committed to serving as a clear, powerful, and persuasive voice for the arts and sciences. Our spring plans for the National Arts and Sciences Initiative include developing new tools, resources, and opportunities for members like you to both experience and share the value of the liberal arts and sciences for a meaningful, productive, and engaged life.
In early March, Phi Beta Kappa served as the lead national sponsor for Humanities Advocacy Day. The event brought more than 100 advocates from across the country to our nation’s capitol to make the case to their Senators and Representatives for federal humanities funding. Together with the National Humanities Alliance and other cultural organizations, we also planned a virtual action day for Phi Beta Kappa members to participate by phone and email. The advocacy guide and sample messages developed for this event can help you spring into action for the benefit of our nation’s cultural agencies as the federal budget process continues throughout the year. You can access them at toolkit.pbk.org/resources.
Speaking of the Hill, did you know that Phi Beta Kappa members hold key leadership roles in the 116th Congress? See the full list of ΦBK Members of Congress at pbk.org/Congress. In the next few months, the Initiative team will work with some of them to highlight ways for arts and sciences grads to key into public service. During the height of the intern season in June, we plan to host a networking event on Capitol Hill for young professionals interested in federal service. If this event is of interest, email us now at advocacy@pbk.org to get first access to priority registration and event details when they become available later this spring.
And no matter where you are, you can use our career resources to navigate your search for meaningful work. Whether you just graduated from college or are already established in your field, find resources to grow your connections and your career horizons at pbk.org/KeyintoYourCareer. For ways to champion and support the arts and sciences in your community, we also recommend connecting with one of almost 50 associations in major metropolitan regions around the country.
In other words, we are fully committed to exploring these new paths forward with you. We know that the arts and sciences prepare students for a lifetime of success by developing inventive employees and thoughtful citizens. They are vital to a vibrant culture and democracy. Together, let’s spring ahead.
Photo at top courtesy of the Architect of the Capitol.