Be The Conductor Program

A transformational social‑justice leadership experience that empowers young adults to study the past, understand the present and lead justice‑centered change in their communities.

What It Is

Be the Conductor^® is a free, cohort‑based leadership lab that helps emerging changemakers explore social justice, develop practical leadership tools and design real‑world impact projects with the support of experienced mentors, community leaders and peers.

Who It’s For

This program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students, early career professionals and emerging leaders approximately 18-25 years old. If you’re passionate about justice, equity, and making a measurable impact, this program is for you.

What You’ll Learn

Our curriculum follows the Conductor Pathway, a four‑part framework that connects history, identity, skill‑building and community action. By the end of eight weeks, participants will:

Strengthen leadership, communication and collaboration skills.
Deepen understanding of equity, justice and their historical foundations.
Engage directly with local leaders, organizers, educators and artists who model justice‑driven leadership.
Produce a portfolio‑ready community project demonstrating real‑world impact.

SEE – History & Truth

SENSE – Self & Story

SKILL – Tools for Change

SERVE – Action & Impact

Are the sessions in-person or virtual?

I have an attendance conflict. Can I still apply?

When is the program?

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Your Information

Full name *

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Essay

In 500-750 words, reflect on your interest in joining this program by describing what motivates you to learn about social justice and leadership, and which issues you care about most and why. Share a moment when you took initiative or spoke up for something important, explaining the impact of your actions. Discuss the strengths, such as communication, creativity, empathy, determination, or problem-solving that you would bring to a team. Describe the skills or experiences you hope to gain through this program and how you plan to use them moving forward.

Essay Response *

We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

You can also upload your essay.

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We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

If you prefer to make a video response as your essay, you can provide an access link below.

We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

Commitment & Availability

This program includes six regular workshops and a final project.

Are you able to commit to attending program sessions and participating actively? *

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Do you have any scheduling conflicts we should know about?

Please provide one letter of recommendation/nomination from a non-family member. *

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CERTIFICATION and AUTHORIZATION *

I certify that the information provided in this application is true, correct and complete. I authorize verification of all statements contained in this Application. I authorize the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to conduct a background screening as applicable. I authorize former employers and/or educational institutions to provide information concerning me, and I release them from liability for providing any such information to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

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