Libertas (Issue 44.2 - Fall 2023)

FALL 2023

Inside: More Than 600 Attend YAF’s 45thAnnual National Conservative Student Conference

VOL. 44 • NO. 2

October 16, 2023 Dear Friends,

M

ore. Younger. Better.

We must inspire more students, at younger ages, with a better message about our conservative values and love for America. Young America’s Foundation has made impactful gains in each area in 2023, and this edition of Libertas highlights some of these achievements—which your support and involvement make possible.

A massive crowd of college students joined us at our 45th annual National Conservative Student Conference in Washington, D.C. (see page 13). They heard from more conservative speakers in one week than most of them have been exposed to throughout their entire lives.

YAF continues to host life-changing student conferences at the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, California; Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon, Illinois; our national headquarters in Reston, Virginia; and regional sites nationwide. During the 2023-2024 school year, we are also on track to break YAF’s record for the number of campus lectures hosted in a single year at colleges and universities nationwide.

In addition to growing our college and high school outreach, we recently held the inaugural Middle School Retreat at our national headquarters—which included a memorable visit to George Washington’s Mount Vernon (see page four). In the months ahead, we look forward to hosting more middle school programs and developing educational resources for parents of elementary school students.

Importantly, we are succeeding in reaching more young people through digital media. Earlier in 2023, we surpassed 1 billion lifetime views and 1.5 million subscribers on YAF’s YouTube channel, YAFTV (YouTube.com/ YAFTV). With YouTube being the most popular source of information for young people, we will build on our growth here and across other digital platforms.

Looking ahead, 48.5 percent of the American electorate in 2024 will consist of millennials and members of Generation Z. We cannot take them for granted. Thankfully, YAF’s research shows that we have an excellent opportunity to connect with and educate them. Our latest nationwide poll of high school and college students (see page seven) reveals that the economy is the most important issue among young people. Among other findings, a solid majority of students also believe that racial quotas are unfair and that athletes born as boys should not compete in varsity sports against those born as girls.

These are encouraging findings. Now, we must identify ways to reach more students, at younger ages, with an even better message. The future of our beloved republic rests on our actions.

Thank you for your continued support of our work to inspire the next generation!

Keep fighting for freedom,

Governor Scott Walker President

L I B E RTAS Fall 2023

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Volume 44

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Number 2

YAF Partners with Fox News, the RNC, and Rumble to Host First 2024 Presidential Primary Debate

By Madison Habersetzer, Conference Director

13 Ramaswamy, Pompeo, and Gaines Headline 45th Annual National Conservative Student Conference

By Jaime Hahn, Conference Director

20 “Inspiring Moral Courage” An Interview with YAF Alumna and Director Kimberly Begg

By Clare Hinshaw, Legacy Society & Development Relations Director

24 Youngkin, Miyares, and Fellow Leaders Join YAF’s Rawhide Circle Retreat in Colonial Williamsburg

By Kelleigh Clarke, Director of Foundation Relations

27 “Investing in Future Generations” An Interview with George & Becky Norton Dunlop

By Raj Kannappan, Editor

On the Cover:

Also in This Issue:

More than 600 young people from across the country gain knowledge and inspiration at Young America’s Foundation’s 45th annual National Conservative Student Conference in Washington, D.C. (see page 13). The premier conservative youth conference in America, this year’s program featured Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, 70th Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and activist Riley Gaines, among other leaders.

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Students Participate in Inaugural Middle School Retreat at YAF’s National Headquarters

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Annual Reagan Forum Educates Interns About the Threat of Communist China

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University at Buffalo YAF Leaders File Federal Lawsuit to Protect Students’ First Amendment Rights

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YAF Poll Finds Students Rank Economy #1 Issue, Oppose Race-Based Admissions

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Host a Conservative Speaker on Your Campus

Vol. 44 • No. 2

Fall 2023

Annual 600 Attend YAF’s 45 Inside: More Than Student Conference National Conservative th

12 Sponsor a Student to Attend a YAF Conference at the

Reagan Ranch 19 Sponsor an Acre at Rancho del Cielo 31 Join YAF’s President, Governor Scott Walker, and Tonette

Walker on 2024 Jerusalem to Lisbon Cruise Libertas, the Latin word for liberty, is a publication of Young America’s Foundation which highlights the programs, events, students, alumni, supporters, and staff of the Foundation. You may contact Libertas and Young America’s Foundation by writing to: Young America’s Foundation, National Headquarters, 11480 Commerce Park Drive, Sixth Floor, Reston, Virginia 20191; calling 800-USA-1776; or visiting yaf.org.

Editor: Raj Kannappan; Publisher: Governor Scott Walker; Publication Design: Jonathan Briggs; Assistant Editors: Nick Baker, Cheri Cerame, Kelleigh Clarke, Patrick X. Coyle, Katie Cupp, Madison Habersetzer, Clare Hinshaw, Jessica Jensen, Michael McGonigle, Tom Robinson, and Maesa Vicente; Washington, D.C., event photographers: David Keith and Bob Updegrove; California event photographers: Zach Mendez and Jacqueline Pilar; Illinois event photographer: Alex Rodriquez. This document and all herein contents, images, stories, graphics, and design, fall unto copyright © 2005 to 2023 Young America’s Foundation, unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. Any use of Libertas content without the written permission of Young America’s Foundation is prohibited.

Young America’s Foundation Board Of Directors Governor Scott Walker President Ronald Pearson Vice President Frank Donatelli Secretary and Treasurer Kimberly Begg T. Kenneth Cribb, Jr. Wynton C. Hall Nicole Hoplin Kate Obenshain Keeler Peter Schweizer Thomas L. Phillips Director Emeritus

Reagan Ranch Board Of Governors Frank Donatelli Chairman Edwin Meese Co-Chairman Robert F. Agostinelli Governor George Allen Candee Arndt Dr. Suzanne Becker Lisa M. Buestrin George & Becky Norton Dunlop Bruce & Kathi Eberle Richard Gaby & Barbara Van Andel-Gaby Robert Giuffra, Jr. Timothy S. Goeglein Michael W. Grebe Ambassador Patricia L. Herbold Eric & Nicole Hoplin Ann Knapheide Mark Larson Rebekah Mercer Dennis & Nancy Moore Doug & Pat Perry Thomas L. Phillips Rear Admiral JJ Quinn Ruppert & Cheryl Reinstadler Richard & Jane Schwartz Bernadette Casey Smith Tonette Walker Jay Webber

National Journalism Center Board Of Governors T. Kenneth Cribb, Jr. Chairman Chris Bedford Elizabeth Donatelli John Gizzi Emily Jashinsky Rich Lowry Alex Marlow The Honorable Alex Mooney Larry O’Connor Gabby Orr Katie Pavlich Ronald Pearson Sarah Westwood Thomas L. Phillips Chairman Emeritus

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Students Participate in Inaugural Middle School Retreat at YAF’s National Headquarters To continue reaching students at earlier ages with America’s founding values, Young America’s

Educator Kali Fontanilla encourages students to be proud of America and its unique history.

Foundation welcomed middle school students to our national headquarters in Reston, Virginia, for the inaugural Middle School Retreat on the East Coast.

In recent years, many radical activists, government bureaucrats, and media organizations have expanded their efforts to indoctrinate students at younger ages. These developments, along with demand from concerned parents and grandparents, led to the Foundation’s latest milestone of launching YAF’s middle school programs in 2022.

This retreat at YAF’s headquarters featured an engaging faculty lineup, including historian Dr. Jake Jacobs, economist Dr. Michael Clark, and educator Kali Fontanilla, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

Students take a behind-the-scenes tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon with Dean A longtime YAF speaker and host of the Jake Norton, the property’s longtime director of horticulture.

Jacobs Show, Dr. Jacobs enlightened students with his discussion on the true, disastrous results of Students then participated in an informative session with communism throughout history. He also encouraged the Kali Fontanilla, a former teacher and co-founder of the Exodus young audience to be the force that keeps America free Institute, who helped them understand the difference between and signed copies of his book, Mother, Should I Trust the equality and equity. She addressed this important topic in the Government? context of America’s leadership role in overcoming slavery.

Dr. Clark, a Hillsdale College associate professor of To conclude the program, students joined YAF staff for economics, demonstrated the essential nature of a free a memorable visit to Mount Vernon—the historic home of enterprise economic system through a hands-on trading game.

America’s first President—which was led by Dean Norton, the property’s longtime director of horticulture.

Emily Davis, a YAF alumna whose children attended this Middle School Retreat, expressed enthusiasm for the Foundation’s middle school outreach, noting,

Middle school students from around the country gather for the inaugural Middle School Retreat at YAF’s national headquarters.

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Thank you so much for having our girls at the Middle School Retreat. They had such a great time and learned a lot...

They are already begging to go back next year. __________________________________________ To learn more about Young America’s Foundation’s middle school programs, please contact Middle School Program Director Tawny Kilpper at tawnyk@reaganranch.org or 888-USA-1776.

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Annual Reagan Forum Educates Interns About the Threat of Communist China Hundreds of students interning in Washington, D.C., attended Young America’s Foundation’s annual Reagan Forum on Capitol Hill. The event, which

Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-08), who

Dr. John Lenczowski, a member of President

serves as chairman of the Select Committee on Ronald Reagan’s National Security Council, coincides with the anniversary of Ronald the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), discusses educates attendees on the 40th President’s policy Reagan’s passing in 2004, educates the next the threat of the CCP to U.S. national security. of “peace through strength.” generation of young conservatives and future policymakers about President Reagan’s values and In his timely remarks on the challenges the CCP poses foreign policy legacy. to the United States, Congressman Gallagher noted, “We are This year’s program—titled “Popping China’s Spy the good guys, and make no mistake: we are going to win.”

Balloon: How to Counter the CCP”—featured remarks He underscored the importance of responding clearly and

by Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-08), who serves as forcefully to Chinese President Xi Jinping and other bad the chairman of the Special Committee on the Chinese international actors, stating, “We should listen to dictators Communist Party (CCP); YAF Director and Reagan Ranch when they tell us in plain language what they’re going to do Board of Governors Chairman Frank Donatelli; and Founder, and act accordingly.”

President Emeritus, and Chancellor of The Institute of World To conclude the program, Dr. Lenczowski, who served on Politics Dr. John Lenczowski.

President Reagan’s National Security Council, encouraged Donatelli, who served in the Reagan administration as attendees to put the ideas shared by Gallagher into practice in assistant to the President for political and intergovernmental their careers. He remarked, “If you recognize there is a moral affairs, welcomed attendees by offering an overview of YAF’s problem, maybe you will have enough intellectual discipline to work nationwide to pass on the 40th President’s legacy. He confront it yourself.” extended an invitation to each student to visit the Reagan Young America’s Foundation is grateful to the Diana Davis Ranch, which is preserved by YAF outside of Santa Barbara, Spencer Foundation for sponsoring this important program California, as the premier Conservative Movement site in the to promote President Reagan’s “peace through strength” country to educate young people. philosophy.

Reagan Ranch Board of Governors Chairman Frank Donatelli moderates the program, attended by a standing-room-only audience of interns on Capitol Hill.

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University at Buffalo YAF Leaders File Federal Lawsuit to Protect Students’ First Amendment Rights Young America’s Foundation, in partnership with Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), is standing up for the rights of conservative students at the University at Buffalo (UB). These courageous student leaders are facing the dissolution of their Young Americans for Freedom chapter at the hands of petty and vindictive student government officers and complicit university administrators.

Attorneys representing UB YAF and its board members filed a federal lawsuit—University at Buffalo Young Americans for Freedom v. University at Buffalo Student Association—in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York. The lawsuit challenges the university’s decision to derecognize the chapter and deny it the same benefits given to other student groups—solely based on its affiliation with Young America’s Foundation.

Shortly after UB YAF hosted a sold-out lecture featuring conservative commentator Michael Knowles, the Student Association (SA) revised its club recognition policies to explicitly prohibit campus chapters of national organizations.

This sudden change, coupled with the SA president’s acknowledgment of the student government’s intentions behind the policy, clearly indicates that YAF students were

Daily Wire Host Michael Knowles challenges radical gender ideology during his campus lecture at the University at Buffalo, part of YAF’s Logan Family Lecture Series.

targeted for their views and track record of highly impactful campus activism.

The unjust derecognition of YAF by the SA further violates students’ rights to free speech and assembly, expressly protected by the First Amendment.

UB YAF Chairman Justin Hill remarked, University at Buffalo’s policy violates the First Amendment by discriminating against us just because we are part of a national organization. We all pay a student activity fee to fund student groups, and now, we are not even allowed to have access to those funds.

We are committed to taking a stand and protecting the freedom of all students to speak freely and without unconstitutional restrictions on campus.

Rather than respond to UB YAF’s lawsuit, the UB Student Association modified its policies, a tacit admission of wrongdoing. However, the new rules continue to unlawfully limit UB YAF’s activities. For example, the club must surrender its right to file any litigation to receive funding from the university’s Mandatory Student Activity Fee. YAF’s attorneys immediately filed an amended complaint to continue holding the University at Buffalo accountable.

YAF has been an established student organization at UB since 2017, attracting thousands of students to campus lectures featuring Lt. Col. Allen West and commentators Ben Shapiro and Michael Knowles, among others. The club also inspires students to understand and advance conservative ideas by hosting tabling events, distributing flyers, and engaging in meaningful conversations and Hundreds of protestors fail to derail the University at Buffalo YAF chapter’s campus lecture featuring commentator Michael Knowles in early 2023. debates with fellow students.

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YAF Poll Finds Students Rank Economy #1 Issue, Oppose Race-Based Admissions In advance of the first 2024 Presidential primary debate (see page nine), Young America’s

Foundation commissioned a unique nationwide poll of nearly 1,700 students—aged 15 to 24—to better understand their views on a range of issues.

While many surveys have recently been conducted to study young people’s views on public policy and cultural issues, the Foundation’s 2023 Understanding Students’ Views on Current Issues poll delved into these topics more deeply and reached high school students, a demographic that is rarely surveyed.

The mainstream media and leftist leaders, such as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, have sought to popularize the notion that young people value equity over equality and government intervention over personal freedom. But the results of YAF’s poll paint a more nuanced picture of Generation Z, those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.

For instance, the majority of high school and college students, regardless of their race, believe it is unfair to use racial quotas in the workplace and in education. In particular, 72 percent of high schoolers and 66 percent of college students support the removal of race as a factor in college admissions.

While more than six-in-ten students support the government cancelling all student loan debt, most students

believe it would be unfair for taxpayers who did not attend college to pay for this policy.

The poll also finds that fewer than four-in-ten students express confidence in President Biden’s ability to serve as an effective leader for young people. Additionally, a strong majority of college students—74 percent—support the establishment of a maximum age limit for Presidential candidates.

Young people rank the economy, school safety, and gun policies as their top three issues of most concern.

Notably, LGBTQ+ issues and race relations—two of the Left’s primary areas of focus for young people—fall on the bottom half of the list.

Governor Scott Walker, YAF’s president, noted, Our polling shows that Generation Z students across the political spectrum care about a range of important issues—including a candidate’s age and the need to feel safe in their schools. Strikingly, though, the top issue among young voters is the economy. Many are concerned they won’t be able to find a job that pays well, start a business, or afford housing when they graduate from college. Everyone in the 2024 Presidential race would be wise to focus on the issues that matter to this important voting bloc.

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This could be YOUR event!

Host a conservative speaker on your campus.

Young America’s Foundation is the only organization in America bringing Ben Shapiro, Michael Knowles, Matt Walsh, Yeonmi Park, and other leading conservatives to colleges from coast to coast.

Visit YAF.org/Speakers-Index or call 800-USA-1776 to learn how to organize the biggest conservative event of the year on your campus.

YAF Partners with Fox News, the RNC, and Rumble to Host First 2024 Presidential Primary Debate Photo courtesy of Fox News Channel

By Madison Habersetzer, Conference Director

At the first 2024 Presidential primary debate, held in Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, eight candidates debate a range of pressing issues, including the RussiaUkraine war, education reform, and the threat of communist China.

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s part of a nationwide effort to reach increasing numbers of young people with conservative values and ideas, Young America’s Foundation partnered with Fox News, the Republican National Committee, and Rumble to host the first Presidential primary debate of the 2024 cycle in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

More than 5,000 guests, including 600 YAF students, supporters, alumni, and friends, attended the debate in person on August 23, 2023, with millions more tuning in to the national broadcast. Hundreds of the Foundation’s students, representing more than 30 states and 125 schools, enjoyed participating in the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Governor Scott Walker, YAF’s president, welcomes more than 5,000 attendees to the debate, including 600 YAF supporters, students, friends, and alumni.

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Members of YAF’s new Defenders of Freedom giving club enjoy a special luncheon with the Foundation’s leadership prior to the debate.

YAF college students gather outside of Fiserv Forum.

Country singer Alexis Wilkins performs at YAF’s Block Party.

Kicking off the evening, YAF President Governor Scott Walker gave an on-stage welcome inside Fiserv Forum, noting, “We are thrilled to be a partner in this debate tonight to draw more attention to getting young people engaged in the Conservative Movement.”

Fox News hosts Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum moderated the debate, and qualifying candidates included Governor Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, Vice President Mike Pence, Ambassador Nikki Haley, Senator Tim Scott, Governor Chris Christie, Governor Doug Burgum, and Governor Asa Hutchinson. During the two-hour debate, the candidates discussed the Russia-Ukraine War, the threat of communist China, pro-life legislation, education reform, and other timely issues.

Prior to the debate, YAF welcomed all debate attendees to a massive Block Party outside Fiserv Forum. Country music artist Alexis Wilkins provided upbeat entertainment, and guests learned about YAF’s mission and programs while enjoying corn hole, food trucks, and exclusive YAF swag.

During the Block Party, National Journalism Center Board

of Governors member and talk radio host Larry O’Connor conducted on-stage interviews with Governor Walker, Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01), Breitbart Senior Editor-atLarge Joel Pollak, and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts. Addressing the audience of energetic young people, O’Connor and the guests discussed media bias, advice for young conservatives, the Presidential debate, and more.

YAF also hosted exclusive gatherings for Foundation supporters—including the inaugural luncheon for members of YAF’s new Defenders of Freedom giving club and receptions for the Foundation’s Rawhide Circle supporters and friends at the Milwaukee Hilton City Center.

Partnering with Fox News and the RNC for this historic event provided excellent exposure for YAF’s mission and work.

The Foundation drew national media coverage throughout the week, as Fox News and other outlets featured interviews with Governor Walker and several of YAF’s student activists.

Governor Walker reached millions through interviews on Fox News’ Special Report with Brett Baier, Your World with Neil Cavuto, and America’s Newsroom hosted by Dana

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YAF’s presence at the debate attracts young people eager to learn about opportunities to get involved with the Foundation’s student programs and campus activism.

Perino and Bill Hemmer. He also appeared as a guest on local Wisconsin networks, CNN, NBC, and radio programs hosted by Guy Benson and Larry O’Connor. Additionally, he joined former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer and commentator Mark Halperin for special video podcasts focused on the debate.

Three YAF students—Alexander Diaz from The Catholic University of America, Jahmarri Green Ave Maria University YAF Chairwoman Julianna Purcell offers her opinion as a young from Friends University, and Jewel Navarrette from conservative during a pre-debate panel on Fox News.

New Mexico State University—participated in a live Fox News panel on The Story with Martha MacCallum, walk, who has pro-life policies from the past.” discussing a range of issues important to young voters.

As a partner on this debate focused on the future of When asked by MacCallum what he hopes the Presidential America, YAF experienced an all-time high in media coverage, candidates prioritize, Diaz responded, “The economy isn’t drawing more than 2,300 media mentions in print, television, working…It’s hurting me as a college student…I’m looking radio, and podcasts throughout the week. for them to talk about ways to tackle inflation and make sure Importantly, this media attention also expanded YAF’s the economy works for Americans.” reach on social media, with the Foundation’s YouTube channel Additionally, Ave Maria University YAF Chairwoman (YouTube.com/YAFTV) attracting nearly 50 million views in Julianna Purcell represented young conservatives on another just the month of August—an increase of 45 percent from the segment with MacCallum, highlighting the importance of previous year. right-to-life issues for her and her peers. Purcell remarked, With nearly 1.2 billion lifetime views and 1.5 million “My first and foremost issue is right-to-life. I’m not only subscribers, YAF remains the leading conservative youth looking for a candidate who’s pro-life. It’s easy to say you’re organization on YouTube, the digital platform where young pro-life…I’m looking for a candidate who will walk the people spend the most time per day.

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Sponsor a Student to Attend a Young America’s Foundation Conference at the Reagan Ranch

When students participate in one of Young America’s Foundation’s life-changing conferences at the Reagan Ranch, they: • Expand their knowledge of economics, American history, personal responsibility, and President Ronald Reagan’s freedom philosophy • Walk in Reagan’s footsteps at his beloved Santa Barbara ranch that served as the “Western White House” during his Presidency

You can make this transformative experience possible for a young person with your tax-deductible sponsorship gift.

• Learn from top leaders in the Conservative Movement about how to effectively champion your values at their schools and beyond • Make new friends their age who love America and care about freedom’s future

Reagan Ranch Center | 217 State Street | Santa Barbara, California 93101

Visit YAF.org or call 800-USA-1776 to learn more.

The Reagan Ranch is preserved exclusively through private support. Young America’s Foundation accepts no government funding.

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Twelve-time All-American swimmer Riley Gaines makes a clear and compelling case for protecting female athletes in women’s sports.

Ramaswamy, Pompeo, and Gaines Headline 45th Annual National Conservative Student Conference

By Jaime Hahn, Conference Director

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s he addressed the opening dinner banquet of Young America’s Foundation’s 45th annual National Conservative Student Conference, Lt. Col. Allen West remarked about America’s founding values,

I need you all to be able to go out and articulate these things, but you can’t articulate these things unless you read, you understand, and you develop your own creed ...Those beliefs that you are willing to live by every single day of your life.

Taking a cue from West, more than 600 participants dedicated the remainder of their week in Washington, D.C., to expanding their network of like-minded friends, having important discussions about the issues most pressing to their generation, and gaining a grounding in timeless conservative principles. Students represented more than 200 colleges as well

“I need you all to be able to go out and articulate these things, but you can’t articulate these things unless you read, you understand, and you develop your own creed.”

— Lt. Col. Allen West as 44 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and seven countries.

The second day of the program commenced with remarks from YAF President Governor Scott Walker, followed by recent NBA player Enes Freedom, who shared his story of standing up against the Chinese Communist Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Fall 2023

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Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02) takes the stage at the National Conservative Student Conference.

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Foundation alumna and Fox News Host Katie Pavlich speaks to students during YAF’s Buckley Breakfast Club session, held in conjunction with the National Conservative Student Conference.

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Venezuelan freedom activist and economist Daniel Di Martino discusses how socialism destroyed his country.

Mike Pompeo, 70th United States Secretary of State, speaks to YAF’s students, supporters, and alumni about the need for a strong U.S. foreign policy.

Party’s repression and the NBA’s business dealings with the Chinese government.

Students also enjoyed enlightening sessions featuring author and Grove City College Professor Dr. Carl R. Trueman, YAF alumnus and 48th Attorney General of Virginia Jason Miyares, and Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02).

Mike Pompeo, 70th United States Secretary of State, concluded the day with a speech and lengthy question-andanswer session on U.S. foreign policy with YAF’s students, 14

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supporters, and alumni. He also offered advice to young people about honoring their commitments, remarking, In the end, the question becomes can you execute?

Can you deliver?...As Secretary of State, can you convince your adversaries that the things you say, you really mean?

The next day, Riley Gaines, a 12-time All-American swimmer from the University of Kentucky, discussed the

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Speaker Newt Gingrich, a longtime Foundation ally, addresses the conference.

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Commentator Liz Wheeler headlines the closing dinner banquet of the 2023 National Conservative Student Conference.

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Congresswoman Lisa McClain (MI-09) encourages students to be courageous in expressing their values on campus and beyond.

Lt. Col. Allen West opens YAF’s weeklong program with a rousing speech on America’s founding values.

importance of protecting the integrity of women’s sports.

Following her personal experience of having to compete against and share a locker room with a transgender swimmer at the NCAA championships, Gaines has become a leading activist for protecting fair competition for female athletes.

Additional speakers addressing students on the third day included Congresswoman Lisa McClain (MI-09); founder of the Warrior Poet Society, John Lovell; and author and New Discourses Founder Dr. James Lindsay. Female conference attendees enjoyed a luncheon hosted by the Clare Boothe Luce

Center for Conservative Women that featured conservative activist and attorney Cleta Mitchell.

A highlight of the week was a dinner banquet headlined by entrepreneur and Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.

In his speech, Ramaswamy urged the audience to question and challenge big government, noting, It’s the managerial class in this country, in towns like this one, three letter agencies: FDA to SEC to CDC to God knows what...that, at best, should have been Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Fall 2023

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Entrepreneur and Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy energizes the audience of young people with his speech on seeking truth in the age of relativism.

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Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03), who serves as co-chair of the Campus Free Speech Caucus, discusses the importance of defending the U.S. Constitution.

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Governor Scott Walker, YAF’s president, kicks off the second day of the conference.

Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38) discusses the importance of meritocracy and excellence in America.

task forces that instead got established permanently as lasting institutions and agencies.

The fourth day of the program began with the final YAF Buckley Breakfast Club session of the summer, headlined by Foundation alumna, bestselling author, and Fox News Host Katie Pavlich. Other informative sessions featured Focus on the Family Vice President and Reagan Ranch Board of Governors member Tim Goeglein; creator of Classically Abby on YouTube, Abby Roth; 50th Speaker of the U.S. House of 16

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Representatives Newt Gingrich; Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38); and Venezuelan freedom activist Daniel Di Martino.

Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) keynoted the dinner session, during which she discussed how to win Americans over to conservatism: What moves people is when conservatives stand up—whether you’re an elected official, an activist, a volunteer, or a student. When we stand up and we push back, people start to notice.

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Students Michaela Lanier (left) and Abigail Lanier (right) enjoy participating in YAF’s 45th annual National Conservative Student Conference.

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YAF alumnus, director, and bestselling author Peter Schweizer speaks to attendees about his investigative work to expose corruption in government.

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Breitbart News Editors Emma-Jo Morris and Jerome Hudson lead a bull session with students during the program.

Former NBA player Enes Freedom addresses questions from students following his inspiring remarks on standing up for free speech and human rights.

Pro-life advocate Lila Rose kicked off the final day, followed by YAF alumnus and faculty member Dr. Burt Folsom; fellow YAF alumnus, director, and bestselling author Peter Schweizer; and author and rapper Zuby.

Podcast host Liz Wheeler concluded the weeklong conference with an inspiring speech at the final dinner banquet. She encouraged students to take what they learned during the program and apply it to advancing freedom on their campuses and beyond.

During the conference, Dr. Folsom also received YAF’s

Alumni Award in recognition of his lifelong service to the Conservative Movement and Young America’s Foundation.

For more than 40 years, he has educated thousands of YAF’s students with compelling and entertaining lessons from America’s economic history. Not only that, but he has also written several popular books, including The Myth of the Robber Barons—published by YAF—New Deal or Raw Deal?, FDR Goes to War, and more.

Throughout the week, students enjoyed several opportunities to meet like-minded friends, including breakout Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Fall 2023

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YAF team members Hunter Morrow (left) and Charlie Jones (right) present University of Iowa YAF chapter members with the YAF Chapter of the Year Award.

“Thank you for allowing me to better support and defend my beliefs.

Many people turn liberal in college, but, thanks to you, I have become more conservative.”

— Abby McGillis, North Greenville University

sessions, movie screenings, and bull sessions on key topics relevant to their generation.

Abby McGillis from North Greenville University remarked at the conclusion of the program, Thank you for allowing me to better support and defend my beliefs. Many people turn liberal in college, but, thanks to you, I have become more conservative.

Hillsdale College Distinguished Fellow Dr. Burt Folsom (middle) receives YAF’s Alumni Award from Program Assistant for Alumni Relations Victoria Franklin and Deputy Director of Development Tom Robinson.

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Young America’s Foundation is grateful to the Richard & Barbara Gaby Foundation and the Challenge Foundation for their leadership gifts to support this transformative program.

The Challenge Foundation’s matching grant inspired hundreds of patriotic Americans to sponsor young people to participate in YAF’s longest-running student conference.

Forever Tie Your Name to the • Legacy of Ronald Reagan • Sponsor an Acre at Rancho del Cielo

“From the first day we saw it, Rancho del Cielo cast a spell over us.” — Ronald Reagan “We hope that our ranch will be a spark for many bright young Americans in the years ahead.” — Nancy Reagan “A place to see the real Ronald Reagan” — Washington Post “Rancho del Cielo has allowed the foundation’s reach to transcend generations.”

— Los Angeles Times

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or more than 60 years, Young America’s Foundation (YAF) has worked closely with President Ronald Reagan and his family to inspire young people with the ideas of individual freedom, free enterprise, a strong national defense, and traditional values.

Since 1998, YAF has preserved Reagan’s 688-acre Rancho del Cielo in California, where thousands of young people have walked in the President’s footsteps to learn about his character, values, and vision for America.

You can permanently tie your name to America’s greatest modern champion for freedom by sponsoring one of the few remaining acres at the Reagan Ranch. Join an exclusive group of patriotic Americans by protecting this priceless national treasure for the benefit of future generations.

When you sponsor an acre at Rancho del Cielo, you will: • Have your name permanently recognized on Rancho del Cielo’s Freedom Wall and at the Reagan Ranch Center, YAF’s Schoolhouse for Reaganism in Santa Barbara, California • Have the opportunity to take a private, unforgettable tour of the Reagan Ranch • And more!

To learn how you can sponsor an acre, please call a development officer

888-USA-1776 ator Visit YAF.org.

Rancho del Cielo is preserved exclusively through private support.

Young America’s Foundation accepts no government funding.

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“Inspiring Moral Courage” An Interview with YAF Alumna and Director Kimberly Begg

By Clare Hinshaw, Legacy Society & Development Relations Director

About Kimberly Begg

Through her service on the Board of Directors,

Kimberly Begg helps Young America’s Kimberly Begg is a Catholic wife and mother of five children Foundation remain focused on its mission of who is trying to cooperate with God’s grace to guide her family to educating students with conservative ideas.

Heaven. An attorney with nearly 25 years of experience strengthening conservative and Catholic causes, she has been active in the Conservative Movement since attending her first Young America’s Foundation conference as a student at Rutgers University.

She served on YAF’s staff for nearly 15 years, operating as vice president, general counsel, and director of planned giving. One of her favorite accomplishments is helping to found YAF’s Standing Up for Faith & Freedom Seminar, which helps students at Catholic colleges and high schools advance conservative ideas on their campuses.

She serves on YAF’s Board of Directors, the Board of Overseers of the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C., the Board of Advisors of the Clare Boothe Luce Center for Conservative Women, and the D.C. Board of Regents of Thomas Aquinas College. She is director of programs and general counsel of the Ortner Begg’s newly published book, Family Foundation, editor of Catholic School Playbook, and project advisor to Run Unbreakable, inspires young With Saints. She is also the author of Unbreakable: Saints Who Inspired Saints to people with the stories of courageous saints.

Moral Courage (TAN Books).

Libertas: How did you first get involved with the Conservative Movement?

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Kimberly: When I was 20, I attended a Young America’s Foundation regional conference in Connecticut. It was 1996, and I was a junior at Rutgers University.

The president of our small campus conservative group encouraged me to attend. I will always be grateful to him because the experience truly changed my life.

On campus, I was one of a handful of eager conservatives in a sea of tens of thousands of leftist or apathetic students, and I felt isolated. But at that conference—where I heard from

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William F. Buckley, Jr., Judge Bill Clark, and then-YAF President Ron Robinson, and spent time with hundreds of conservative students—I learned that I was a part of something much bigger. I realized I was a part of the Conservative Movement.

Libertas: What led you to join Young America’s Foundation’s staff?

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Kimberly: After participating in YAF’s regional conference, I attended the National Conservative Student Conference in Washington, D.C. It was at that conference that I decided to move to D.C. after college—which I did two years

later—to become more involved in the Conservative Movement.

I earned my law degree from George Mason University School of Law (now the Antonin Scalia Law School) in the evening while working during the day.

By the time I was 27, I had worked at four different organizations.

Over the years, I had kept in touch with Patrick Coyle (now a YAF vice president), whom I had met at YAF’s Connecticut conference. I called him and told him that I felt unfulfilled in my work. He suggested that I ask Ron Robinson for advice, which I did.

That led to a lengthy interview process that ended with an offer to join

YAF’s staff to help build a planned giving program. I would be drawing from my legal training and YAF experiences to work with YAF’s generous supporters. I enthusiastically accepted the offer and never looked back.

Libertas: What is your most memorable experience from your time on YAF’s staff?

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Kimberly: My most memorable experience was being backstage with our team during Ben Shapiro’s YAF campus lecture at the University of California, Berkeley, on September 14, 2017.

I remember marveling at the event’s tremendous success, despite the university’s months-long efforts to derail it. It was amazing to see students listening attentively and engaging in respectful dialogue with Shapiro, when administrators had gone out of their way to encourage them to be disruptive.

Also satisfying: Berkeley had reduced the size of our audience to half of the 2,000-seat capacity of the auditorium, but YAF’s online livestream of the lecture garnered 350,000 views on YouTube that night and 1.2 million views within 24 hours.

And here’s the best news: Shapiro’s lecture was part of a landmark lawsuit and free speech victory that YAF celebrated 15 months later. It required Berkeley to (1) pay Young America’s Foundation $70,000, (2) rescind its unconstitutional “high-profile speaker policy,” (3) rescind its viewpointdiscriminatory security fee policy, and

Begg addresses students during YAF’s Standing Up for Faith & Freedom Seminar, a program she helped found to train young people at Catholic colleges and schools to advance conservative ideas.

“Heroes inspire heroes.

Young people need heroes to elevate expectations for their own behavior, to do good, and to inspire goodness in others.”

— KIMBERLY BEGG

Kimberly Begg (second from left) and future Young America’s Foundation colleague Patrick Coyle (left) attend the Foundation’s National Conservative Student Conference in 1997.

(4) abolish its heckler’s veto so that protestors would no longer be able to shut down conservative expression.

Libertas: Why did you decide to write your new book, Unbreakable: Saints Who Inspired Saints to Moral Courage?

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Kimberly: In 2021, I spoke at YAF’s Standing Up for Faith & Freedom Seminar. This is a program that I helped found, so I was honored to be asked to participate as a speaker. I wanted to use the opportunity to tell students about Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko, the courageous chaplain of the Solidarity Movement in communist Poland who helped millions of people throughout the Eastern Bloc and the world see through the lies of communism.

While doing my research, I made a wonderful discovery: Jerzy’s favorite saint as a boy and throughout his life was St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Franciscan priest who gave his life to save a fellow prisoner at Auschwitz. St. Maximilian published a newspaper that reached a circulation of one million. The only issue published during World War II contained this message: “No one in the world can alter the truth.”

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The connection between Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko and St. Maximilian Kolbe was the inspiration for my book about four of the most courageous human beings who ever lived and the 10 saints who inspired them. The stories incorporate moments in their lives that helped them develop a habit of being courageous and standing up for truth in a world afflicted by lies.

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that is soul-endangering advice. A young person who gets ahead by choosing cowardice and calling it prudence will mature into an adult who does the same, and his or her family, friends, and fellow Americans will be worse off for it.

to do good, and to inspire goodness in others.

Libertas: Why are good role models an important part of a young person’s development?

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Libertas: What is moral courage and why is it an important trait for young people to develop?

Kimberly: Heroes inspire heroes.

Young people need heroes to elevate expectations for their own behavior,

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Kimberly: Moral courage is the virtue of doing what is right and good because it is right and good, knowing it could cause others to think badly of you or otherwise lead to suffering or sacrifice.

It is choosing truth for the sake of truth when it is easier and more socially advantageous to go along with a lie.

It is important for young people to practice acts of courage during their formative years because that is when lifelong habits are formed. I have heard well-meaning conservatives advise young people to “keep their heads down” in school to get good grades, but I believe

“It is up to those of us who love America to pass on our American values to the next generation. I believe that no organization does this better than YAF...”

— KIMBERLY BEGG

Libertas: How do you hope your book can help parents guide their children to truth in the midst of a confusing culture?

Kimberly: Unbreakable is a book about truth-tellers that has special appeal to young people. Five of the 14 saints featured are children or teenagers who exhibited heroic virtue. The stories are written in a fast-paced style that make them ideal for read-alouds for children of all ages and independent reading for children 12 or older.

The book contains a list of 10 ideas to help readers—most importantly, parents modeling behavior for children and young adults making their own decisions— develop a habit of moral courage. It also contains a list of recommended books and resources for parents.

Additionally, I’m offering a free, 17-page study guide that can be used for personal reflection, family discussions, school and homeschool curricula, and book clubs. It is available at kimberlybegg.com.

Libertas: Did your experience working with YAF’s students contribute to the lessons you offer in your book?

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Kimberly: Yes! When young people attend YAF’s programs, they learn about Ronald Reagan’s inspiring life, ideas, and character, and they want to be like him; they want to be good, brave, strong, and trustworthy. This principle—that heroes inspire heroes—is a central lesson in the book and one that all parents should think deeply about when building their home library.

Longtime Foundation supporters Ray and Susie Screbant—who worked with Kimberly Begg to launch YAF’s Standing Up for Faith & Freedom Seminar—join Begg at YAF’s Rawhide Circle Retreat.

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Libertas: What advice would you give to a young person who is torn between the conservative values of his or her family and the leftist ideas of our culture?

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have their back, no matter what.

YAF’s board is unique in that it is made up of members with a long history with the organization. When we weigh in on YAF’s programs, we draw on our own experiences as YAF students or staff members.

I’m honored to support Governor Scott Walker and our experienced leadership team to help keep YAF focused on our important mission.

Libertas: We are grateful that you and your husband, Ian, have included YAF in your estate plans. Why should someone consider making a bequest to YAF? ———————————————————— Following her involvement with Young America’s Foundation as a college student, Kimberly Begg and her husband, Ian, look forward to getting all of their children involved in the coming years.

Kimberly: I would reiterate St. Maximilian Kolbe’s statement, “No one in the world can alter the truth.” That message was needed during World War II, when Nazis tried to change eternal truths about the dignity of all human beings made in the image and likeness of God. It is also needed now, when elites at the highest levels of society are trying to change the meaning of male and female, marriage and family, sex and sexuality, and virtue and vice.

In addition, I would ask a young person to reflect on a Christian principle which is also a central principle of America’s founding: the role of

government is to protect the God-given rights of people and families.

Libertas: After having been involved as a student and staff member, you also serve on YAF’s Board of Directors.

Why is continuing your involvement with YAF important to you?

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Kimberly: No organization does more to help young conservatives than YAF. I recently spoke with a member of YAF’s legal team about this. I shared that one of the most rewarding aspects of being a part of the legal team is that our students know we always

Kimberly: It is up to those of us who love America to pass on our American values to the next generation. I believe that no organization does this better than YAF because no organization can match our exclusive Reagan properties, campus lectures, conferences and seminars, and passionate commitment to helping young conservatives.

Libertas: You have also sent your own children to YAF’s student programs.

Why should conservative families get their kids involved with YAF? ————————————————————

Kimberly: Parents have a duty to pass on America’s values to their children.

There’s no better way to do this than by entrusting our kids to YAF.

Young America’s Foundation speaker Ben Shapiro (third from left) meets backstage with Kimberly Begg (second from right) and fellow YAF team members following his much-publicized 2017 campus lecture at the University of California, Berkeley.

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Youngkin, Miyares, and Fellow Leaders Join YAF’s Rawhide Circle Retreat in Colonial Williamsburg

By Kelleigh Clarke, Director of Foundation Relations

Members of YAF’s Rawhide Circle gather at Upper Shirley Vineyards for a luncheon session.

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upporters of Young America’s Foundation from across the country gathered in Williamsburg, Virginia, for the 2023 Rawhide Circle Retreat. The annual event—one of the largest in YAF’s history—brought together patriotic Americans to spend time with YAF’s leadership and prominent conservative leaders.

Colonial Williamsburg, the site of Virginia’s 18th-century capital, provided a memorable backdrop for discussions about YAF’s nationwide youth outreach efforts and plans for significant growth in the coming years.

The program began with an evening reception at the historic Williamsburg Inn, where YAF President Governor Scott Walker welcomed guests and highlighted the importance of Rawhide Circle members in ensuring the Foundation and its thousands of students nationwide can effectively advance America’s core values.

The group reconvened for several informative sessions the next day. Rawhide Circle members introduced themselves before hearing from YAF alumnus and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, who gave a compelling speech on the 24

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(Back row, left to right) Governors George Allen, Glenn Youngkin, and Scott Walker, along with First Ladies (front row, left to right) Susan Allen and Tonette Walker, meet prior to Governor Youngkin’s remarks.

case for American exceptionalism. He discussed the promise of America in the context of his mother’s experience fleeing socialism in Cuba, remarking,

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YAF alumnus and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares delivers a stirring speech on the case for American exceptionalism.

YAF Director Kate Obenshain emcees the final dinner banquet of the 2023 Rawhide Circle Retreat.

YAF Vice President and Chief of Staff Jessica Jensen introduces Governor Glenn Youngkin to the audience as a leader for parental rights in education.

(From left to right) YAF Vice President and Director of the Reagan Ranch Andrew Coffin moderates a panel featuring Program Officer Hunter Morrow, Campus Events Coordinator Breana Marsh, Conference Director Madison Habersetzer, and Senior Manager of Social Media Brett Eazell.

There are millions and millions of people who woke up this morning on this planet who would do everything in their power to be seated exactly where you are seated right now...They would crawl over broken glass. They would link inner tubes together and cross shark-infested waterways. They would cling to the side of an airplane.

Following Miyares’ remarks, three leading YAF student activists participated in a panel—moderated by YAF Vice President Patrick Coyle—to discuss their first-hand experiences promoting conservative ideas at their schools.

Wyatt Eichholz from the University of Alabama, Connor Ogrydziak from the University at Buffalo, and Jewel Navarrette

YAF Director of Development Jason Barbour thanks Foundation supporters for their investment in YAF’s mission and students.

from New Mexico State University shared how their school administrators fought the formation of their Young Americans for Freedom chapters, the challenges and rewards of hosting conservative speakers on campus, and the threats they have faced for standing up for their beliefs.

Later in the day, YAF supporters explored Colonial Williamsburg on a walking tour, visiting the Governor’s Palace—home to the first two post-colonial governors of Virginia, Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson—and other historic sites.

Additionally, members of the Reagan Ranch Board of Governors held their annual meeting during the Rawhide Circle Retreat, discussing the latest projects at Rancho del Cielo and the Foundation’s progress on expanding Midwest Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Fall 2023

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Rawhide Circle Retreat participants tour historic Berkeley Plantation, the birthplace of President William Henry Harrison.

outreach at the Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon, Illinois.

That evening, Reagan Ranch Presidential Scholar and 67th Governor of Virginia George Allen emceed a dinner banquet featuring 74th Governor of Virginia Glenn Youngkin, who discussed his administration’s critical work to protect the rights of parents and students in education.

On the final day of the retreat, guests enjoyed an excursion to Berkeley Plantation, the birthplace of President William Henry Harrison and the site of the first official Thanksgiving in America.

During a luncheon at nearby Upper Shirley Vineyards, YAF team members—including Program Officer Hunter Morrow, Campus Events Coordinator Breana Marsh, Conference Director Madison Habersetzer, and Senior Manager of Social Media Brett Eazell—headlined a panel session on the impact 26

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of supporters’ investments in the programmatic and digital expansion of the Foundation.

To conclude the retreat, YAF Director Kate Obenshain emceed the final dinner featuring Governor Walker, who discussed the Foundation’s strategic plan—the Campaign to Save America—to reach significantly more young people, at earlier ages, with more effective communication. He reflected on the leap of faith that YAF’s leadership and supporters took 25 years ago, in 1998, to save the Reagan Ranch and encouraged Rawhide Circle members to consider what they can do today to help YAF embark on this significant effort.

Young America’s Foundation thanks all who gathered in Williamsburg and looks forward to hosting the next Rawhide Circle Retreat at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, located in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, in April 2024.

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“Investing in Future Generations”

An Interview with George & Becky Norton Dunlop

By Raj Kannappan, Editor

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eorge and Becky Norton Dunlop have served on the Reagan Ranch Board of Governors since 1999. They have been married for 46 years and reside in the Blue Ridge Highlands of Wythe County, Virginia.

George is a retired lifelong entrepreneur and has been an equity partner in business ventures involving agriculture, international trade, and information technology. His experience includes senior positions in government and the private sector, including Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army, Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and Environment, chief of staff to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry, and president of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association.

He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and holds graduate and post-graduate degrees from Lehigh University and Duke University.

Becky is an accomplished leader in American politics. Among several appointed positions, she served in senior roles on the White House staff of President Ronald Reagan, for Attorney General Ed Meese at the Department of Justice, and at the Department of the Interior as Deputy Undersecretary and Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. During George Allen’s governorship in Virginia, she served in his cabinet as Secretary of Natural Resources.

Later, she was vice president and the Ronald Reagan Distinguished Fellow at the Heritage Foundation. She also served as president of the Council for

George and Becky Norton Dunlop have served on the Reagan Ranch Board of Governors since 1999, guiding the work of Young America’s Foundation to inspire young people with the legacy of Ronald Reagan.

National Policy and the Conservative Action Project and was on the Trump Transition Team. She is on the board of the Association of American Educators, Virginia Institute for Public Policy, and Reagan Alumni Association. She has been a small business owner and is a counselor and mentor to many.

Libertas: How did the two of you meet?

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George: We met in 1975, when I was on the staff of U.S. Senator Jesse Helms of North Carolina. Senator Helms was the first nationally prominent conservative to endorse Ronald Reagan in Reagan’s GOP primary challenge to President Gerald Ford.

Becky: I was the political director for the American Conservative Union (ACU). Our goal was to assure that

conservative views were dominant at the 1976 Republican National Convention, at which we hoped Ronald Reagan would be nominated.

There was a little challenge in North Carolina, where Senator Helms controlled the delegation. The ACU wanted our North Carolina Conservative Union chairman to be part of the delegation, and my job was to make this happen. George was the designated Helms staffer. We met, resolved the issue favorably, and, as they say, the rest is history.

Libertas: Who or what were some key influences on you as young conservatives?

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George: I became politically aware at age nine, when I viewed TV news reports of the Soviet invasion of Hungary in 1956. Soviet soldiers were shooting Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Fall 2023

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would win the North Carolina primary.

Without that North Carolina victory, there would have been no Reagan Presidency.

Becky: My involvement began while I was an ACU staffer in 1973. I was working with YAF staff to plan the first Conservative Political Action Conference in 1974. We brought Ronald Reagan to keynote that event.

Libertas: Both of you served in key roles in the Reagan administration.

What were your experiences like working in the White House?

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George: I had a feeling of great excitement and unbridled enthusiasm As one of President Ronald Reagan’s most senior women appointees, Becky Norton Dunlop helped to recruit when I was asked to serve in the Reagan committed conservatives to serve in key roles in the Reagan administration. administration. children my age who had been throwing class. I also read Goldwater’s The As an Assistant Secretary of rocks at Soviet tanks. I asked my father Conscience of a Conservative and decided Agriculture, I served under the direct why the Soviets were shooting children.

I, too, was a conservative. leadership of Agriculture Secretary He said, “They were fighting for their Richard Lyng. I was privileged to work freedom.”

Libertas: How did you get involved on a whole host of issues of concern to From that point forward, whenever with the Reagan the White House and anyone asked me what I wanted to be Revolution? involving President —————————— when I grew up, I responded, “I want to Reagan’s inner circle. be a freedom man.”

George: I got Reagan’s Later, in 1960, my high school involved as a appointees were English teacher gave me an assignment YAFer in the highly motivated to write an essay about Young Americans 1968 Presidential to help him “Make for Freedom’s newly formulated Sharon campaign. Along America Great Again.”

Statement. I found myself energized and with a college friend Yes, that was Reagan’s in full accord with these ideas. and fellow YAFer, I campaign theme I joined YAF in 1961. YAF leaders were established North from 1980, decades active in the Draft Goldwater movement, Carolina Students for before Donald Trump so, in 1963, I attended the Draft Reagan in the YAFran on it.

Goldwater Independence Day Rally. sponsored effort to While it was Then, in 1964, I worked as a volunteer at encourage Ronald great fun to be a After joining YAF in 1961, George Dunlop the Goldwater for President headquarters Reagan to challenge Reagan-man, it was has served the Conservative Movement in several capacities, including in the in Philadelphia and was mentored there President Richard also daily high-stakes Reagan administration and for U.S. by great YAF conservatives, including Jay Nixon for the GOP close combat with Senator Jesse Helms.

Parker and Randy Teague. nomination. those who opposed We attended the 1968 Republican Reagan’s policies or resented his success Becky: Biblical principles and Barry National Convention in Miami to assist and popularity. My Marine Corps Goldwater’s Presidential candidacy with organizing the meetings Governor training taught me to always “run to were important influences on me at Reagan was having with state delegations. the sound of the guns,” so the figurative a time when we were learning about Subsequently, in 1975 and 1976, combat was as exhilarating as it was Presidential elections in my government we organized to assure that Reagan stressful.

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Becky: My experience was awesome and humbling.

I was one of the most senior women in the Reagan White House, serving in the Office of Presidential Personnel— where we recruited citizens from all over the country who were committed to President Reagan and his values, principles, and goals. Many came to Washington to serve for the first time, and it was a tremendous blessing to be a part of that process.

I was also director of the Office of Cabinet Affairs, where our responsibilities included communicating with all cabinet departments and agencies on behalf of the President, managing all Presidential events related to cabinet-level policymaking, organizing cabinet meetings for the President, and preparing his briefing books for these activities.

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Libertas: How did you determine which career opportunities to pursue?

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George & Becky: The leaders we worked for were happy warriors of great integrity, courage, and principle. It is a privilege to have been associated with them.

We believe that God has a plan for our lives, and he used every experience to prepare us for the next opportunities that have all been great blessings.

We encourage young people to prepare themselves for any opportunity that comes along and to do all you do with excellence. God will use your instincts, talents, enthusiasm, and hard work to open the doors. Don’t be afraid to walk through them. Stay true to your core values and beliefs. And be prepared to walk away from a job if you are required to compromise your beliefs.

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Libertas: How would you describe the state of the Conservative Movement today?

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George: The principles embodied

by YAF’s Sharon Statement, U.S. Declaration of Independence, and U.S. Constitution are timeless and will always ensure that there is an intellectual foundation for the Conservative Movement in America.

The leadership training and experiences made available to young people through YAF bode well for a constantly renewing cadre of activists who are eager to extend the principles of freedom for America and the world.

Becky: It is exciting to see enthusiastic young people active across the country, but I am concerned that some conservative organizations are retreating

Join the Ranch in the Sky Legacy Society Through Young America’s Foundation’s Ranch in the Sky Legacy Society, patriotic Americans are empowered to create their personal legacy of educating young people and advancing freedom. By including YAF in their estate plans, YAF’s Legacy Society members enjoy many benefits, including:

• Lifelong membership in YAF’s President’s Club and invitations to exclusive events.

• A beautiful recognition plaque.

The names of YAF’s Legacy Society members are permanently • Their names permanently engraved on the special engraved on Freedom Wall at the Reagan Ranch.

Legacy Society panel on Freedom Wall at the Reagan Ranch.

• An engraved stone at the Reagan Ranch in honor of Executive Members of the Legacy Society who share documentation of their estate gift.

• An oak tree planted at the Reagan Ranch in honor of Torch of Freedom Society Members of YAF’s Legacy Society who share documentation of their estate gift of $1 million or more.

Please update your estate plans to include Young America’s Foundation by sharing this sample bequest language with your attorney: I give, devise, and bequeath to Young America’s Foundation, tax identification number 23-7042029, 11480 Commerce Park Drive, Sixth Floor, Reston, Virginia 20191 (insert percentage, amount or nature of gift, or remainder of estate) to be used for educational purposes (or to support the Reagan Ranch Fund).

Contact Legacy Society & Development Relations Director Clare Hinshaw at 800-USA-1776 or chinshaw@yaf.org to enroll in the Legacy Society or request a free estate planning guide.

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from the legacy of Ronald Reagan and not maintaining the natural fusion of cultural values, traditional values, and free enterprise at the forefront.

The lessons of Ronald Reagan, William F. Buckley, Jr., William Rusher, and others are still important.

Organizations like YAF build the Conservative Movement from the ground up, educating and training young people in the values that influenced our country positively for so many years.

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Virginia, I, too, was delighted when YAF purchased the Reagan Ranch. I wanted to help preserve its natural beauty that inspired President Reagan, as well as the historical significance it represented.

Libertas: In addition to investing in YAF’s mission annually, you are members of our Torch of Freedom Society of legacy supporters. Why? —————————————

George & Becky: We believe we must invest in future generations. Young America’s Foundation is a great organization with the right principles, values, and leadership.

You champion the right heroes and seek to preserve the best of our past to assure that ordered liberty, opportunity economics, and traditional values carry on.

At YAF’s 2019 Rawhide Circle Retreat, George and Becky Norton Dunlop (middle) reconnect with former Reagan administration colleagues Mark Levin (left) and Attorney General Ed Meese (right), along with their spouses, Julie Levin and Ursula Meese.

Libertas: What do you see as the most pressing challenge America faces?

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George: The progressive statist ideologies that are essentially Marxist pose a threat to everything America stands for. The people drawn to these ideologies hate America and regard its founding as an illegitimate expression of white supremacy and European culture.

Their insidious efforts to extend their power and control over other people for their own aggrandizement is the greatest danger we face.

To paraphrase Abraham Lincoln, “All the armies that have ever marched and all the navies that have ever sailed can never conquer America. If our great experiment in liberty is to fail, it will arise from within our own country.”

Becky: Communism is America’s most pressing challenge. Communists control China and Russia, with the more powerful being China, though Vladimir Putin is a dangerous foe and an ally of Xi Jinping’s.

Here in the United States, a preferred target of communists is our college

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campuses, where there are many sympathizers seeking to undermine the values of a free society in the minds of the students. Young America’s Foundation is doing important work by offering an alternative voice, support for freedom-loving faculty, and encouragement for students.

Libertas: What are your hopes for the future of Young America’s Foundation?

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Libertas: You have served on the Reagan Ranch Board of Governors since 1999. What prompted you to get involved?

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George: I have been a supporter of YAF since 1961. It was natural that when YAF purchased the Reagan Ranch, I would support that project. I still urge young people to study YAF’s Sharon Statement as the principled basis for their ideological philosophy.

Becky: I got to know YAF and its great leadership and staff when I began working for the ACU in 1973, when both organizations collaborated on many projects.

Later, as the Secretary of Natural Resources for the Commonwealth of

George & Becky: We hope YAF achieves great success in using the Reagan Ranch to keep alive for future leaders the fact that once in the recent past, there was a man of high character, strong principle, vision, and courage in the White House.

We hope that the number of students participating in YAF’s activities will continue to grow and that more professors will encourage students to participate in YAF’s programs, such as the ones offered by the Center for Entrepreneurship & Free Enterprise.

We also hope that those students who have been a part of YAF will prosper and continue to champion this fine organization.

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This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

PAPHOS • ANTALYA • MARMARIS • SANTORINI • VALLETTA • TRAPANI • CAGLIARI • MAHÓN • MÁLAGA • PORTIMÃO • LISBON

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F O U N D A T I O N

P R E S E N T S

The 2024 Cruise Timeless Mediterranean Treasures August 31 to September 15, 2024 15 Nights Aboard the Seven Seas Voyager

S P E A K E R S

Peter M. Robinson Murdoch Distinguished Policy Fellow at the Hoover Institution

W I L L

James J. Quinn Rear Admiral, United States Navy (Ret.)

I N C L U D E :

Governor Scott Walker President, Young America’s Foundation

Kate Obenshain Author and YAF Director

— As Low As $11,950 Per Person Double Occupancy —

Call NOW for the best cabin selections! • 866-255-8877 • www.yafcruises.com

Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | www.yaf.org

NON PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID HERNDON, VA PERMIT NO 6551

Fall 2023 Volume 44 • Number 2

National Headquarters 11480 Commerce Park Drive Sixth Floor Reston, Virginia 20191 800-USA-1776

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CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

s part of a nationwide effort to reach increasing numbers of young people with conservative ideas, Young America’s Foundation partnered with Fox News, the RNC, and Rumble to host the first 2024 Presidential primary debate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Above) Prior to the debate, young conservatives enjoy YAF’s Block Party outside of Fiserv Forum, which introduced the more than 5,000 debate attendees to the mission and work of YAF.