January 23, 2008

Today, in the United States alone, nearly 18 million students are enrolled in a college or university. Imagine what could happen if they all made a commitment— big or small— to take action to make a difference on their campus, in their community, or across the globe. Imagine how many lives could be impacted— even saved— if college students had the opportunity to join together and change the world.

CGI U is making this vision a reality. A new project of the Clinton Global Initiative, CGI U will hold its inaugural meeting from March 14 – 16, 2008, at Tulane University in New Orleans, to bring together college students, university officials, experts, and activists to discuss ways they can take real, concrete steps to address pressing issues like climate change, human rights, and poverty. Before leaving New Orleans at the end of the meeting, every student will make a Commitment to Action— a pledge to put their specific passion to work— in one of these focus areas.

All students currently enrolled in a college or university are invited to attend this free event and can apply for financial assistance for travel by February 4th. The deadline for applications is February 18th, but space is limited to only 500 students— interested students are encouraged to apply today. For more information and to apply, visit www.cgiu.org. To connect with others who are planning to attend to the conference or are dedicated to our mission, join the CGI U Facebook group.

Not a student, but want to take action? Visit MyCommitment.org to make your commitment and access the resources and networks to turn your vision into reality.

Both MyCommitment.org and CGI U are part of the Clinton Global Initiative, a community of projects that convenes global leaders and top thinkers each year to take action on pressing issues. To learn more about this innovative model of philanthropy, visit www.ClintonGlobalInitiative.org.