Democracy in Dialogue

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Smithsonian-Sponsored Youth Exchange Program

The Virginia Discovery Museum is excited to participate in Democracy in Dialogue, a Smithsonian-sponsored youth exchange program that brings together high school students from across the country to explore the principles and practice of community through storytelling, collaboration, and civic engagement. This unique opportunity empowers teenagers to share their perspectives, learn from one another, and create projects that reflect their understanding of values in their own communities. Through dialogue and creative expression, participants will build connections, deepen their civic awareness, and contribute to a national conversation about what community means today.


Details  |  Upcoming Cohorts  |  Apply  |  Participant Resources  |  Contact


Fall 2025

Sep. 24-Dec. 10
Wednesday Evenings
(5:15-6:15 p.m.)

Summer 2025 Cohort (BTS)

Ages

Students 14 to 18
Space is Limited
(First-Come, First-Served)

View Program Benefits

Applications

Deadline: Sep. 20, 2025
Due by 5:00 p.m.
(No Application Fee)

View Online Application


Upcoming Cohorts

Fall 2025 Cohort

Wednesdays (Sep. 24 – Dec. 10)  |  5:15-6:15 p.m.

Ages 14-18: Democracy in Dialogue students will have the opportunity to add a prestigious program to their resumes, develop their communication skills, earn community service hours, and connect with other students locally and virtually around the country.

Apply Online

No Application Fee. Applicants Will Be Contacted Once Accepted.
Deadline: Sep. 20, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. Space is Limited.


Participant Resources

Parking & Directions

VDM validates program participants’ parking at both the Market Street Garage and Water Street Garage.

Map

Public Transit

Most CAT bus routes, including the Free Trolley, stop at the Downtown Transit Station next to the Museum.

Summer Teen Internship

Gain school service credit and workforce readiness training as a summer intern from June-August.

Become a Volunteer

Want to give back? Annually, VDM depends on more than 300 volunteers who donate over 4,000 hours.


Contact Us

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact Education Manager Amy Griffith at (434) 977-1025 x106 or amy@vadm.org to learn more about Democracy in Dialogue.