Making Change: What Should We Do?

Table of Contents

​​What Is Civic Studies, and Why Does It Matter? 

​Building Skills for Collaborative Community Impact 

​About the Changemakers for Community Impact Program 

​Civic Studies FAQ 

​How is Civic Studies different from traditional academic fields? 

​What are common barriers to civic participation? 

​Why does civic identity matter in community leadership? 

​Explore Civic Engagement at Tufts​ 

At Tufts University’s Tisch College of Civic Life, we are proud to be the nation’s premier center for the study and practice of civic engagement. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and empower students, faculty, and community members who are committed to building a better world through civic action.  

Through a dynamic blend of education, research, and hands-on practice, we serve as a hub for those who believe in the power of civic engagement to drive meaningful change. 

What is Civic Studies, and why does it matter

Our work is rooted in an emerging academic field known as Civic Studies. Civic Studies equips individuals and communities with the knowledge, skills, and frameworks they need to work collaboratively, solve problems, and make change together. 

But what exactly do we mean by making change? 

In a community, making change can start with anyone—individual residents, local governments, community organizations, schools, or the business community. It often begins when people come together—whether in response to a challenge or an opportunity—and ask a powerful question: 

What should we do? 

This question is at the heart of civic engagement. It sparks important conversations about who we are, what we value, and how we work together. It pushes us to think deeply about: 

• Identity and Values. Who are we as individuals and as a group? What principles guide us? 

• Trust and Relationships. How do we build trust and foster civil discourse, even when we disagree? 

• Resources and Constraints. What time, money, or expertise do we have—or lack? 

• Action. How do we move from discussion to meaningful, collective action? 

Building Skills for Collaborative community impact

Other critical aspects of change-making include: 

• Voices at the Table. Who is part of the conversation? Whose ideas are heard, and whose are left out? Are we ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all? 

• Skills. What strengths and talents do we bring as a group? What skills are we missing, and how can we build them? 

• Information. What data and knowledge do we have—and do we know how to use it effectively? 

• Community Needs. How can we map our community’s assets, needs, and resources to better understand the landscape for action? 

• Power Structures. Who are the decision-makers? Do we have the authority to act? How can we engage those in positions of influence? 

• Outputs and Outcomes. What will success look like? Are we creating recommendations, writing a report, or pursuing a specific impact? 

• Civic Identity. What is my personal role in this work? How can I reflect on my own civic identity, agency, and leadership? 

These questions and reflections are at the core of building stronger, more resilient communities. 

About the changemakers for community impact program

For those ready to put ideas into action, the 12-week Changemakers for Community Impact program at Tufts offers a focused pathway for leadership and collaboration.  

Designed for individuals looking to deepen their civic engagement, the program brings together a cohort of passionate participants dedicated to strengthening their community. 

Through interactive sessions, practical tools, and a peer learning environment, participants explore the “What should we do?” question while developing skills to lead with equity, inclusion, and intention.  

Whether you’re just beginning your civic journey or seeking to sharpen your impact, Changemakers for Community Impact offers the structure and support to grow your influence. 

civic studies FAQ

How is Civic Studies different from traditional academic fields? 

Civic Studies blends elements of political science, philosophy, sociology, and education, but its central focus is on how people work together to shape society. It emphasizes collective agency, ethical reflection, and practical action rather than just analyzing systems or structures. 

What are common barriers to civic participation? 

Barriers include lack of trust, unequal access to decision-making, time and resource constraints, and feelings of disempowerment. Civic engagement efforts that prioritize equity, representation, and relationship-building can help overcome these challenges. 

Why does civic identity matter in community leadership? 

Civic identity shapes how individuals see their role in public life. Leaders who understand their own values, responsibilities, and positionality are better equipped to engage others, navigate complexity, and build lasting community partnerships. 

Explore civic engagement at tufts

Join us in this important work. 

Become part of the Changemakers for Community Impact cohort, where you’ll explore these questions, build skills, and collaborate with others to make a difference in your community. 

Learn more about the leadership program and how you can get involved.