Rising Generations

Igniting the Potential in Young Leaders

Young people are not just the future—they are leaders today. At Aspen Institute, we ignite the potential of young people of all backgrounds by developing their leadership, amplifying their voices, and enabling productive dialogue across differences. Through community-building, civic engagement, and meaningful participation, we empower Rising Generations to shape policies, institutions, and society. Across the Institute, we foster intergenerational collaboration, support youth- and young adult-led innovation, and help young changemakers bring their ideas to life.

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The Center for Rising Generations

The Center for Rising Generations ignites the potential of young people by developing leadership, amplifying voices, and fostering dialogue to drive change. Explore how we elevate their impact.

Voices of the Future

At The Aspen Institute, we believe in the power of youth to shape the world for the better. Get inspired by their determination to create a brighter tomorrow.

Events

Aspen Ideas Festival 2025

| Aspen, CO

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Project Play Summit 2025

| Bay Area, California

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Energy and Climate Leadership Science and Technology Societal Trust

NATO Youth Summit

| Miami, Florida

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Books Unbanned: Protecting Young People’s Freedom to Read

| New York, NY 10065

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The Opportunity Youth Forum: Cross-Site Convening

| Austin, TX

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A student, holding a notebook, speaks into a microphone. She is surrounded by a cheering group of young people wearing matching black and orange t-shirts.

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Amplifying Youth Voices

The Aspen Challenge provides inspiration, tools, and a platform for young people to design solutions to some of the most critical problems humanity faces.

Latest in Rising Generations

Explore the latest insights, programs, and initiatives from across the Aspen Institute, all focused on empowering and elevating Rising Generations.

Blog Posts

Dan Porterfield to Complete Transformational Tenure as Aspen Institute President and CEO in Summer 2026

The Aspen Institute today announced that Dan Porterfield will complete his service as President and CEO in the summer of 2026, after more than eight years of visionary leadership.

September 22, 2025

Blog Posts

Embracing Disagreements as a Tool for Deeper Understanding

Reflection from the Socrates Students & Young Professionals Seminar.

August 28, 2025

Blog Posts

How Young People Are Powering the Future of the Aspen Institute

From community projects to global coalitions, from high school organizing to national policy influence, young leaders are defining the future and they’re doing it their way.

August 12, 2025

Ideas. Leadership. Action. Delivered to You.

The Aspen Institute shares regular updates about our work. You’ll receive the latest information on upcoming events and popular material from our staff — including publications, blog posts, podcasts, and videos.