SLU’s William L. Clay, Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice to Hold Community Symposium

ST. LOUIS - Saint Louis University’s William L. Clay Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice will host its second community and civic engagement symposium on Wednesday, Nov. 11. 

The William L. Clay, Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice at Saint Louis University, launched in the summer of 2025 with a legacy investment from the William L. Clay Scholarship & Research Fund, provides immersive learning experiences and hands-on training that address the social and economic challenges facing the St. Louis region and the nation.

William Clay received an honorary Doctor of Public Service from SLU in 2018 in recognition of his lifelong commitment to education and public service.  SLU file photo.

The Clay Institute continues the work advanced by U.S. Congressman William L. 'Bill' Clay (A&S ’53), the first African American to represent Missouri in Congress. He was a tireless advocate for expanding educational opportunities for underserved students during his more than 30 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout his life, he has championed education as a path to opportunity. 

The Clay Institute, housed within SLU’s Center for Social Action, offers programming to all students with an interest in civic engagement and democratic participation. The Institute aims to educate, engage and empower students. 

Programs offered through the Clay Institute include SLU’s Policy Pods program and Pathways to Progress. During the event, SLU students will speak about their participation in Clay Institute programs. 

Event Details

• When: 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. A short program begins at 5 p.m.
• Where: Saint Louis University Center for Global Citizenship, 3672 West Pine Mall
• Admission: Free with registration

Register to Attend

The team behind the William L. Clay Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice includes, from left, Bobby Wassel, Ph.D., director of the Center for Social Action; Rochelle Smith, vice president and chief belonging officer at Saint Louis University; Angie Clay Thomas, executive director of the William L. Clay Scholarship & Research Fund; Nia Duke, program coordinator; Jessica Trout, assistant director for advocacy and civic engagement; and Leah Sweetman, Ph.D., director of community engaged learning in the Center for Social Action. Photo by Sarah Conroy. 

The Clay Institute is located in SLU’s Center for Global Citizenship on West Pine Mall. The Institute’s archival content includes legislation that Rep. Clay had a role in, including the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) of 1990 and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which was passed in 1993.

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