At a time of deepening polarization in American public life, recognition across party lines is increasingly rare. Yet just months after participating in former President Barack Obama’s Democracy Forum, Manu Meel, CEO and co-founder of BridgeUSA, has been honored by the George W. Bush Presidential Center—a striking endorsement of his bipartisan leadership and commitment to civic renewal.
The Bush Center presented Meel with a special citation for his work advancing civil discourse through BridgeUSA, a student-led organization that empowers young people to engage in constructive dialogue across ideological divides. With more than 70 chapters in nearly 40 states, BridgeUSA has grown into a nationwide network driven entirely by leaders under the age of 25.
“This recognition belongs to the students who make this movement real every day,” Meel said during the ceremony. “BridgeUSA exists to challenge echo chambers, foster listening, and ensure the next generation is prepared to lead with empathy and understanding.”
BridgeUSA chapters are uniquely ideologically diverse—28% liberal, 28% conservative, and 44% independent or undecided—underscoring the organization’s core commitment to representing a broad spectrum of views and building common ground. Meel’s remarks highlighted the importance of spaces where students can practice democracy in action and develop the habits of dialogue so essential to a healthy republic.
“Representative spaces like these are rare—and they are essential,” Meel said. “They are where the future of democracy is being shaped.”
The dual recognition from both the Obama and Bush presidential centers speaks to the growing relevance of BridgeUSA’s mission in today’s fractured political landscape. As trust in institutions erodes, youth-led efforts like BridgeUSA offer a hopeful path forward—one rooted in listening, learning, and bridging difference.
To watch the full recognition ceremony, click here. For more information about BridgeUSA, visit www.bridgeusa.org.
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