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Abby Pfisterer

Abby Pfisterer is an Education Specialist at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. She leads the development of resources and programs that use history to foster civic learning and engagement among K-12 students nationwide. She has over ten years of experience working in formal classroom and informal learning settings at museums and historic sites, focusing on progressive education and audience-driven program development. Ms. Pfisterer holds degrees in History, Political Science and Education from Colorado State University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts. She has also held secondary social studies education licensure, teaching in middle and high school social studies classrooms in Greeley and Fort Collins, Colorado.

Stories from this author

Hosted by the National Museum of American History, with participation from classrooms across the country, the 2021 National Youth Summit will examine the topic of gender equity, asking students to wrestle with history and take on challenging conversations. (Courtesy of National Museum of American History, Illustration by Krystal Quiles)

Setting the Stage for the Year through the National Youth Summit

The National Youth Summit offers classrooms the opportunity to wrestle with history and take on challenging conversations, setting the stage for ongoing discussions and engagement throughout the school year.

Through Smithsonian programs, like ARTLAB and the National Youth Summit, museum educators demonstrate how adult mentors can elevate the voices of teens in their communities. (Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden)

How Educators Can Boost and Activate Teen Voices

Smithsonian educators, dedicated to amplifying the voices of teens, share their suggestions on how to support young leaders’ efforts without disrupting their individual agency.