CENTER FOR RELIGION, CULTURE & DEMOCRACY

SAVANNAH SEMINAR

ON RELIGION, CULTURE, AND DEMOCRACY
MARCH 31–APRIL 5, 2027

Equipping Rising Leaders to Build a Free and Flourishing Society

The CRCD’s Savannah Seminar provides students the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics related to the American founding, democratic ideals, and the important role that religious ideas and institutions play in the development of free and flourishing societies.

The Savannah Seminar Experience

Founded in 1733 as the British colonial capital of Georgia, Savannah is the perfect venue for the CRCD’s Seminar on Religion, Culture, and Democracy, as it was home to early American experiments in pluralism, religious liberty, and civil society. Students selected for this this five-day event will participate in interactive lectures from leading scholars, join expert-led tours to explore some of the city’s most beautiful historic area, and develop lasting relationships with peers and mentors.

Speakers include:
Dr. Jordan Ballor

Dr. Anne Rathbone Bradley
Prof. Adam MacLeod

Mr. Jeff Mateer
Dr. Andrew McGinnis
Dr. Stephen Presley

Here's what our past participants are saying

“This program, more than any other I’ve been part of, had an impact in cultivating young leadership committed to understanding constitutional principles, because the quality of scholars it brought together was so unmatched. Students had the privilege of learning from true intellectual giants about how personal conviction can inspire lives of service and leadership in the public square; and we grew in fellowship with peers who shared our commitment to civic responsibility and the ideals implicit in the Constitution.”

“I left inspired by the speakers, encouraged by my peers, and enlightened by the sessions.”

“My peers and I were able to exchange our perspectives in a diplomatic fashion where friendly debate and discussion could be had. I truly appreciate the atmosphere which CRCD fosters to allow for this exchange of ideas.”

Parker BriggsHarvard Law ‘29 | 2025 Savannah Seminar Alumnus

“I left inspired by the speakers, encouraged by my peers, and enlightened by the sessions.”

Hannah SlingluffBA in Government, Regent University (May 2025) | 2024 Savannah Seminar Alumna

Mason ReyesBachelor’s in Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology with a focus in Criminology, Texas Tech University (December 2024) | 2024 Savannah Seminar Alumnus

The Savannah Seminar is designed primarily for upper-level undergraduate students, although outstanding recent graduates and other students are welcome to apply. Students can be enrolled in any field of study, but will want to make sure to have exposure to the humanities and social sciences. Successful applicants will be high-performing with excellent letters of recommendations and writing samples.

All accepted participants will receive a travel stipend to cover airfare as well as all lodging, meals, and program materials in Savannah.

The ideal applicant will have:

High GPA

Have a high GPA in undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate coursework

References

Outstanding references from former instructors

Humanities & Society

A broad undergraduate-level comprehension of the humanities and social sciences

Ready to Apply?

The Savannah Seminar on Religious Freedom will take place March 31–April 5, 2027 in Savannah, Georgia.

The Savannah Seminar is open to any college junior or senior pursuing an undergraduate degree. All who are eager to deepen their knowledge of America’s first freedom and learn how they can advance the cause of religious liberty are welcome, regardless of field of study or career path.

Required application items include:

•Completed online application
•Résumé
•Letter of Recommendation
•Writing Sample

For questions regarding the application process, contact Jillian Barr at jbarr@firstliberty.org.

Applications for the 2027 Savannah Seminar will open on September 7, 2026 and will be accepted on a rolling basis until January 18, 2027.