The Center for American Institutions (CAI) is committed to teaching American history and political philosophy in the classroom and beyond.
CAI Encountering History Retreats are designed to give undergraduate students an opportunity to encounter history first hand in Washington D.C. and in Santa Barbara at the Reagan Ranch.
In addition to visiting historic sites and monuments, students participate in a moderated debate on topics such as free speech, America’s right to revolution, religious liberty, and others.
Reagan Ranch Retreat
3 days, 2 nights | December 11-13, 2025
- Reagan Ranch Center
- Reagan Ranch
- Channel Islands exploration
Encountering History in Washington D.C.
5 days, 4 nights | May 12 - 16, 2026
- ASU Washington Center
- Mount Vernon
- Arlington National Cemetery
- National Archives Museum
- White House
- U.S. Capitol
- U.S. Supreme Court
- Library of Congress
- National Mall and monuments
...Many college students self-censor or view their ideological opposites through the lens of suspicion. Yet at the Reagan Ranch, our group, liberals and conservatives alike, engaged in genuine dialogue. We found that meaningful discourse doesn’t require abandoning our principles; it requires understanding others’.
Programs like this are vital for America’s future. They create spaces where students can explore different viewpoints without fear, where we learn to disagree while maintaining respect. I’m grateful for the donor support for transportation, lodging, and meals that made this transformative experience possible. Their generosity doesn’t just fund programs-it builds bridges between future leaders committed to strengthening American democracy.
Sami (Regan Ranch Retreat 2024)
To learn about how you can sponsor a student to attend an Encountering History Retreat, contact [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does it cost to attend?
A: CAI Encountering History Retreats are funded by our generous donors. Students pay nothing to attend. Airfare, ground transportation, public transportation, hotels, tickets for activities and most meals are covered. Transportation to and from Sky Harbor airport is not covered.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Applications are available on this web page beginning in September for the Reagan Ranch and in February for Washington D.C.
Q: Do I have to be in the Political History & Leadership (PHL) certificate program to attend?
A: No, but PHL students have early access to applications and are prioritized for acceptance. We encourage you to add the PHL certificate to your program of study.
Q: Can I earn ASU credit by attending
A: No. The retreats are enrichment only.
Q: Can I make my own travel arrangements?
A: No. Your travel arrangements will be made by ASU. (You can ask for an exception for your return flight).
Q: Do I have to stay with the group the entire time?
A: For the most part, yes. There is some limited free-time built into the itineraries.
Q: What is the lodging situation?
A: We stay at area hotels. Depending on funding, you may or may not share a room with a fellow student. Students have had their own hotel rooms for the past two years.
Q: Who leads the retreats?
A: The retreats are led by a faculty member and a staff member of CAI.
Q: I still have questions. Who can I contact?