Hello John,

I’m delighted to share that Mark C. Henrie—President of the Arthur N. Rupe Foundation and one of the most respected voices in the conservative intellectual community—has been elected Chair of ISI’s Board of Trustees. 

ISI’s board adopted a formal resolution expressing gratitude to outgoing Chair Thomas Lynch for his six years of leadership in the role and service to our mission of educating for liberty. 



Mark has dedicated his life to cultivating leaders grounded in the “Permanent Things” which undergird Western and American civilization.

Mark previously served as Chief Academic Officer at ISI, where he shaped the programs, publications, and educational vision that continue to guide us today. While at ISI, he also served as senior editor of Modern Age. In 2023, he joined the ISI Board.

In addition to writing A Student’s Guide to the Core Curriculum, Mark edited Arguing Conservatism, a collection of essays featuring contributions by Russell Kirk, Leo Strauss, Eric Voegelin, Ludwig von Mises, and other luminaries. 

As president of the Rupe Foundation, he leads efforts to achieve positive social change in American life by “shining the light of truth on critical and controversial issues.” The Foundation provides philanthropic support for scholarly studies, education, research, and public debate.

Mark also serves as a trustee of the Center for European Renewal. He has also been affiliated with the Philadelphia Society, the Roger Scruton Legacy Foundation, First Things, and American Affairs. Mark is a former ISI Weaver Fellow and was educated at Dartmouth College, Harvard University, and the University of Cambridge.

Mark’s long-standing involvement with ISI and his experience in conservative philanthropy make him an ideal choice at this pivotal time in America’s history. 

I look forward to working closely with Mark and our board to continue identifying, educating, mentoring, and launching the next generation of American leaders.

For Learning and Leadership,

Johnny Burtka
President & CEO 
Intercollegiate Studies Institute