Anthony Phillips '10

The Institute for Responsible Citizenship has selected Anthony Phillips, Bates Class of 2010, as one of 24 young men to participate in its summer leadership program in Washington, D.C. He was chosen from hundreds of applicants from universities all over the country to be part of the institute's sixth class. 

A double major in African American studies and philosophy at Bates, Phillips' campus involvement includes serving as a student representative for the College Lecture Committee; co-president of Amandla!, the college's African American student organization; and moderator for the African American studies club. In his hometown of Philadelphia, Phillips co-founded the Youth Action Team, a nonprofit organization that promotes civic awareness and responsibility among inner-city youth.  He hopes to become a university professor.

William Blaine-Wallace, multifaith chaplain at Bates, expressed the college's pride in Phillips' selection. "Anthony has established himself as a strong, visible and respected leader in and an advocate for, the African American community, the Multicultural Center and the wider Bates community," Wallace said.

"He has not sought out these positions of leadership. They have been bestowed upon him by fellow students, faculty and staff because of his passion for responsible citizenship and social justice. Anthony possesses a contagious commitment to making real the beloved community. Anthony inspires hope."

The Institute for Responsible Citizenship admits 24 exceptional minority male students each year for its two-summer program at Georgetown University. During the first summer, students take courses on campus while interning in the D.C. metro area. A stipend is provided to cover the cost of transportation and food. 

During the second summer, students work fulltime and act as mentors to the 24 newly admitted young men. Students live on campus in housing provided by the institute during the program. When not at work or in class, students are treated to intimate meetings with high-level government officials, which in past years have included Supreme Court justices, the secretary of state, U.S. senators, U.S. congressmen and business leaders.

"Acting as a mentor to Anthony at Bates has been a singular pleasure," says Czerny Brasuell, director of the Multicultural Center. "His intellect, leadership, thoughtfulness and sterling character have made him a most worthy recipient of this fellowship."