Pell Center hosts panel discussion commemorating America’s 250th
By student writer Leah Spengler '26
Last week, The Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy at Salve Regina University commemorated 250 years of American independence with a free, public panel discussion attended by students, faculty and community members.
Dr. Jim Ludes, the executive director of the Pell Center, served as the panel’s moderator and began the discussion by emphasizing the contrasting themes that arise when examining the history of America’s founding, the legacy of events 250 years ago and the challenges to those enduring ideals today. “Is it cautionary? Is it celebratory? Is it all of the above?” Ludes questioned.
Colin Woodard, the director of the Pell Center’s Nationhood Lab initiative, emphasized that the 250th signifies the longevity of, “an enduring struggle between ethno-nationalism and the shared set of values and ideas that bind us together as Americans.” Brodsky Chair in U.S. Constitutional Democracy and Culture and professor of political science at Salve Regina Dr. Mary Anderson claimed, “we’re celebrating that we’ve overcome challenges through community organizing, mobilizing and standing up for each other when rights aren’t there for our neighbors.”
The panelists explained that the principles marking the country’s founding unite Americans today, but that the foundation of the nation relies on compromise. Dr. William Leeman, a professor of history at Salve Regina and director of the Pell Honors Program, expanded on the roots of disagreement embedded in the founding era, asserting, “These men did not get along. There was backbiting, pamphlets written against one another, friendships ruined and conflict. Thomas Jefferson had a completely different view of what the country should look like than Alexander Hamilton did.” Leeman concluded that it was their willingness to meet in the middle that allowed for the success of the revolution.
“We’re celebrating that we’ve overcome challenges through community organizing, mobilizing and standing up for each other when rights aren’t there for our neighbors.”
As conversation turned to the role of today’s Americans, panelists expanded on the responsibility of upholding the principles of civic virtue and having an informed citizenry. Woodard highlighted that the country needs to see “leaders that transcend their personal interest to defend the greater good of the whole citizenry.” Leeman recognized the expected role of citizens and pursuit of civic education, claiming, “if you’re putting voting power in the hands of the people, they should be able to make decisions that support the common good.”
Student attendee, Elodie Chery ’28, reflected on how the panelists’ insights resonated with her. “We need compromise and civic virtues now more than ever. This is the vital role that civic engagement plays in our country: teaching our youth the importance of having tough conversations, being honest in their actions and standing firm in their beliefs. As constituents, we should be committed to taking action and preserving a nation that is dedicated to liberty and freedom for all.”
After a handful of questions from audience-members, the event concluded with a final assertion from the moderator, Dr. Jim Ludes, who warned, “The worst thing that can happen to our country is people thinking that the government happens to them, instead of thinking that they are part of the government. This is the sentiment that we are most at risk of today.”
“We need compromise and civic virtues now more than ever. This is the vital role that civic engagement plays in our country: teaching our youth the importance of having tough conversations, being honest in their actions and standing firm in their beliefs."
The Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy at Salve is a multidisciplinary research center focused at the intersection of politics, policies and ideas. Dedicated to honoring the late U.S. Sen. Claiborne Pell’s legacy, the Pell Center promotes American engagement in the world, effective government at home and civic participation by all Americans.
To learn more about upcoming events hosted by the Pell Center, visit the upcoming events page.