Our Mission
Educate To Liberate Academy teaches underserved youth how to think, not what to think, through media literacy, critical thinking, and responsible digital citizenship.
We exist to confront the rise of anti-intellectualism and reclaim the value of human intelligence in an era increasingly shaped by social media and artificial intelligence. As young people face unprecedented levels of digital distraction and cognitive decline, we cultivate the intellectual curiosity and logical reasoning skills needed to analyze ideas with rigor, with the aim of cultivating a love of learning. Through our summer camp, fellowship, and educational content, we develop the habits of mind necessary to thrive in higher education, civic life, and beyond.
A Youth-Led Working Board
E2LA operates through a large, youth-led working board, meaning board members are responsible for carrying out the organization's work rather than serving in a purely advisory capacity. Most board members are graduate students, recent graduates, and young professionals who use E2LA as an avenue for meaningful community service and leadership.
As a youth-led organization, E2LA does not currently have any paid full-time staff. The organization is powered primarily by volunteers who contribute their time, skills, and expertise to advance E2LA’s mission. The only paid positions are the Factotums, who serve as summer camp counselors and support the implementation of E2LA’s residential summer programming.
Committee Structure
Every board member joins a committee aligned with their skills and interests: Content and Communications, Alumni Development, Strategic Partnerships, Fundraising, Grant Writing and Research, Curriculum Development or Logistics and Operations. To learn more about each committee, click into the document linked within the application.
Internship Program
Educate to Liberate Academy offers a flexible, fully remote, project-based, unpaid internship running from September 8 through December 15, with an earlier start date available for prospective applicants who wish to begin earlier. This opportunity is ideal for undergraduate students seeking professional experience who are passionate about education, social justice, and social impact and can commit 2–4 hours per week. Interns will develop meaningful skills, contribute to mission-driven projects, and receive a letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the internship.
While undergraduate students are welcome to apply for E2LA’s Board of Directors if they believe they are a strong fit, the Board is a leadership position that requires a longer-term commitment and a higher level of responsibility.