Skip to main content

Clay Institute Programs

The William L. Clay, Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice at Saint Louis University offers a number of programs to SLU students and faculty to foster engagement with the greater community.

A group of students talk to a staff member at an information table.

SLU offers a variety of opportunities to learn about community engagement, service and advocacy opportunities.

Policy Pods

Policy Pods are small groups of students who engage in legislative research and meetings. Students meet weekly on topics such as criminal justice reform, immigration reform, environment, education, immigration and disability rights. Toward the end of each semester, they set up legislative meetings, advocate for their positions, and host an event to educate the campus. Groups start each year by meeting with advocacy agencies to get information on their topics and celebrate with a keynote address at the end of the year. Students can receive CP2 Credit for Pods if they are a regular part of their group and attend a reflection with the assistant director about their experience with pods connecting to their vocation and development. 

Apply to Pods by Sept. 1, 2025, by clicking below, or email jessica.trout@slu.edu.  The Kick-off meeting is September 5th in the Center for Global Citizenship.

Apply for the 2025-26 Policy Pods

Pathways To Progress

Pathways to Progress offers justice-based experiential learning and advocacy training. Participants will focus on equity, opportunity and justice for all with a local economic justice lens. During the spring semester, a cohort of 10-12 students engage in weekly education and community-building activities with local partners. Students will attend a spring break trip to Washington D.C. to meet with legislators, advocacy groups and visit important sites for civic education. 

In addition to hands-on learning and policy engagement, Pathways to Progress emphasizes personal reflection and leadership development. Through facilitated discussions, journaling and direct interaction with community leaders, students will explore their own values, identities and roles in advancing justice within their communities. It's a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of social justice while building practical skills and meaningful connections. 

Program Dates: Workshops are Jan. 16, 30 and Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
Spring Break Trip to Washington, D.C.: March 9-13

Applications for Pathways To Progress for Spring 2026 will be available on Nov. 13, 2025.

Pathways to Progress is open to undergraduate students from all majors and backgrounds who are passionate about creating a more just and equitable society. Whether you're deeply involved in advocacy work or just beginning to explore issues of economic and social justice, this program is designed to meet you where you are and help you grow. Ideal candidates are curious, open-minded, and motivated to engage with their local community while developing real-world skills in organizing, policy and civic leadership. We especially encourage students who are interested in public service, nonprofit work, law, social entrepreneurship, or community-based change to apply.