According to entrepreneur and philanthropist Robert L. Luddy, many students today not only lack a basic knowledge of the “American system, including the lives and deeds of the Founders and the brilliance of the Constitution,” but also “important character traits such as hard work, creativity, and ingenuity.”
Luddy maintains that students should possess a deep understanding of American history – including its “blemishes and challenges” – know how “our government works,” and be equipped to carry out civic responsibilities such as voting and running for office at the local, state, and federal levels.
The founder and CEO of CaptiveAire Systems, which manufactures commercial kitchen-ventilation systems, Luddy is passionate about civic education. He founded Thales Academy in 2007 “to provide an opportunity for students to excel academically and to be molded into future leaders.”
