Elevating Student Voice, Purpose, and Perspective

The NextGen Insights Series amplifies the voices of high school students across the United States. Through three national surveys and a cross-cutting leadership analysis, this series captures how young people define connection, purpose, fairness, and their role in shaping the future. Each brief provides a window into what students value most and how they see themselves contributing to the world around them.

At a time when youth perspectives are more important than ever, these findings reveal a generation that is pragmatic, compassionate, and ready to lead. Students are clear about what matters—belonging, fairness, opportunity, and meaningful work—and they are redefining leadership as an active, inclusive practice rooted in purpose and trust.