We are proud to share that our Project Director, Dee Runaas, has been honored with the Darlene Ruscitti Civic Champion Award, presented by the Democracy Schools Network.
This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to expanding the scope and reach of civic learning in Illinois. Named after Dr. Darlene Ruscitti, a trailblazer in supporting civic education, the award celebrates those who carry forward her legacy of advocacy, leadership, and dedication to preparing young people for engaged citizenship.
As Project Director of the Constitutional Democracy Project, Dee has worked tirelessly to bring high-quality civic education opportunities to both teachers and students across the state. Through innovative programs, professional development, and student-centered initiatives, Dee has advanced the mission of empowering the next generation to understand—and actively participate in—our constitutional democracy.
While there are so many local, state, and national projects, institutes, workshops, networks and youth forums that you have successfully organized and led, what sticks out to me most is your remarkable commitment to ensuring that teachers are provided with the kind of high quality professional development opportunities that we know make a huge difference for them and their students. — Dr. Diana Hess
Your programs have inspired so many of my students to learn more, consider multiple perspectives, and to increase their awareness of current events…I am so appreciative of the impact you have had on me. Thank you for the incredible resources you have shared with me, the amazing people and stakeholders you provided that shaped the way I taught in the classroom, and your consistent encouragement. — Hayley Lotspeich, Teacher
Receiving the Darlene Ruscitti Civic Champion Award is both a recognition of Dee’s impact and a reminder of the importance of civic learning for all Illinois students. We are grateful for this honor and remain committed to expanding the reach of our work in classrooms and communities across the state.
