Jody Chatalas, Class of 1998 “ Good civic leaders must have strong critical thinking skills. The ability to absorb information, analyze it, and make sound judgments is crucial for anybody who seeks leadership roles. IDF provides the opportunity to exercise one's critical thinking aptitude within the context of political and civic issues.”

— Jody Chatalas, Seattle,
Class of '98


The Program
Women and men ages 21 to 36 accepted into the Institute for a Democratic Future will participate in a seven month program starting in December and ending in June (weekends and some weekdays). The students will focus on four major areas:
  1. Political and public policy issues
  2. Legislative process
  3. Campaigns and elections
  4. Preparing to run for office

Tentative 2008 Program Schedule
Tuition for the Institute for a Democratic Future is $425. Scholarship and payment plans are available. E-mail for more information.
All prospective participants must submit an application form, cover letter, resume and at least one letter of recommendation. Participants must be Democrats between the ages of 21 and 36. Final selection of participants will be determined through an interview process. There is a nonrefundable $20 application fee.

See the Application page for more details.
  • Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.
  • applications must be postmarked by December 7, 2007
  • Interviews will be scheduled individually
To stay true to our guiding principal of diversity, the following goals have been established by the advisory committee:
  • 1/3 Participants from Seattle (maximum).
  • 1/3 from King County (outside of Seattle), Snohomish and Pierce counties.
  • 1/3 from all other counties (minimum).
  • 50/50 balance of men and women.
  • Proportionate representation of racial and ethnic groups.