Quick look: Education, business and civic leaders will convene June 11 for The Power of Civic Literacy panel discussion hosted by OC Forum, featuring Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, California National Civics Bee champion Arlo Fravien and other county officials.
After leading California in students earning the State Seal of Civic Engagement last year and producing the state’s first civics bee champion, Orange County is continuing its commitment to civic learning through a countywide conversation on the importance of civic literacy.
On June 11, education, business and public service leaders will gather for “The Power of Civic Literacy,” an OC Forum panel discussion exploring how civic knowledge strengthens communities, institutions and democratic participation. The event will feature Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, Garden Grove student and 2025 California National Civics Bee champion Arlo Fravien alongside local leaders. Tickets can be purchased on the event webpage.
Presented by current affairs organization OC Forum, the event aims to bring together leaders from across sectors to exchange ideas and discuss best practices. The panel is co-sponsored by the Orange County Department of Education and USA 250-OC, a local nonpartisan initiative commemorating the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
As the nation prepares to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, panelists will explore how a greater understanding of government functions and the responsibilities of citizenship can shape public trust, community engagement and informed decision-making.
According to moderator and USA 250-OC Co-Chair Jo Ellen Chatham, featured speakers will explore the ways civic literacy can be supported both inside and outside the classroom, with schools, families, businesses and community organizations all playing a role in helping residents become informed and engaged citizens.
Panelists will include Dr. Bean, Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez, Orange County Business Council Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Paul Simonds, Fravien and Nixon Foundation Chief Operating Officer Joe Lopez. Chatham will moderate the discussion, while Orange County Register politics editor Kaitlyn Schallhorn will provide opening remarks.
Orange County students have already shown great interest in civic participation with 5,280 students earning the State Seal of Civic Engagement during the 2024-25 school year, recognizing their understanding of the U.S. Constitution and democratic principles, as well as their commitment to informed citizenship.
The Power of Civic Literacy panel will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 11 at The Pacific Club, 4110 MacArthur Blvd. in Newport Beach. Tickets are available through the OC Forum website.