Looking Back on 2021
While this year may feel a bit like suspended animation, life did go on, and after nearly a year of limited in-person events, we were finally able to gather in person again. The last two years have been ones of growth and transformation for AF, and after so much change, it’s nice to sit back and reflect. Here are ten highlights from America’s Future in 2021:
1. In the fall of 2020 AF promoted three of its most successful chapters into Regional Hubs, where they were charged with expanding AF to surrounding states, and becoming a true part of their local communities. This year, the Southwest, the Northeast and the Capitol area regional hubs hosted over 63 events including monthly intimate dinners featuring local political leaders, scenic picnics, vibrant professional development discussions and let’s not forget the Northeast’s annual polo match. In November, AF-Northeast hosted their first satellite event, AF’s first event ever in Portland, ME.
2. After so much time apart, AF Chapters got back to hosting regular events, providing a space to kickstart networking, and to dive into issues of the day, something that was much needed in our ten cities around the country. This fall, AF-Atlanta was relaunched with an event at the Foundation for Economic Education.
3. While nothing can replace the thrill of an in person event, virtual programming did provide new flexibility to bring dynamic speakers to a wider audience. In the summer of 2021 AF-Jackson hosted an inspiring discussion with the former president of the Heritage Foundation, Kay Cole James.
4. Austin Jack, AF Southwest leader launched our podcast, Brewing Business in which he interviews young entrepreneurs on lessons learned, and what freedom means to them (check out all ten episodes here).
5. AF was excited to meet new and old friends at conferences where we hosted special events and tabled at Freedom Fest, the StatePolicy Network Annual Meeting, YALCON and Freer Future Fest (AF members represented us there!)
6. The writing fellows continued training the next generation of young writers, serving over 100 new fellows. Alumni continued to ensure a freedom perspective was present in the media by publishing over 10,100 articles this year
7. AF reached the milestone of gaining 500 members, all sharing the ideas of advancing liberty within their communities. Members get discounted tickets to AF galas and other events, special benefits at chapter events, plus valuable virtual content and exclusive peer growth opportunities like our masterminds.
8. In September, building off of successful chapters in Dallas and Austin, AF expanded its presence across Texas by introducing our 4th regional hub.
9. After a hiatus in 2020, the AF Gala was back at the Washington Nationals Ballpark for an evening of celebration under the stars. Awards were given to top Writing Fellows alumnae Gabby Orr, Amanda Kieffer and Elizabeth Held.
10. In October, chapter and regional hub leaders came from across the country to gather in Washington, DC for a dynamic planning retreat to design programming for 2022. From a scavenger hunt through Dupont Circle, to strategy sessions and delicious dinners, it was a great, long overdue weekend of bonding.
We look forward to welcoming more members into our family in 2022!
