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Kennedy Institute Newsletter | Fall 2025
FROM THE CEO, ADAM HINDS

This fall, I’ve had the privilege of speaking across the country about our landmark report on how America funds its elections—an effort we undertook with the Dole Institute to underscore a simple but powerful truth: the foundations of our democracy are too vital to be undermined by partisanship. Everywhere I go, I hear deep appreciation for our leadership in sparking a national conversation about investing not only in the infrastructure of our elections, but in the public’s confidence in them.

That spirit of purpose and impact has defined the Edward M. Kennedy Institute as we celebrate our 10th anniversary. Our recent celebration with President Joe Biden, Secretary Marty Walsh, and Admiral Lisa Franchetti was an unforgettable reminder of how far we’ve come—advancing civic education, strengthening democratic institutions, and inspiring the next generation to participate in our shared civic life.

As we look ahead, I am deeply proud of all that we’ve accomplished together—and energized by the opportunities before us to expand this vital work in the year ahead.
Adam G. Hinds
CEO
Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate
PBS News
Biden warns of ‘dark days’ and urges Americans to stay optimistic ([link removed])

Politico
Biden says the nation is facing ‘dark days’ under Trump ([link removed])

CBS News
Former President Joe Biden receives lifetime achievement award at Kennedy Institute in Boston ([link removed])

Boston Herald
Pence pushes back at some of Presidents Jan 6th Pardons and Progressives ([link removed])

Commonwealth Beacon
America’s underfunded elections: a national security risk we can’t ignore ([link removed])
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us on November 20th, in partnership with the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, on the 100th anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy’s birth for a discussion with Chris Matthews, the former host of MSNBC’s Hardball and an acclaimed Kennedy biographer, on his centennial tribute to Robert F. Kennedy. In Lessons From Bobby: Ten Reasons Robert F. Kennedy Still Matters, Matthews explores why Robert F. Kennedy's revolutionary vision offers the roadmap America needs today. RFK’s ideals, moral leadership, and political bravery are all part of this examination of his legacy, in which Matthews gives us ten lessons for today taken from RFK’s life. Kimberly Atkins Stohr, senior opinion writer and columnist with The Boston Globe, moderates.

Find more information and register here: [link removed]
RECENT EVENTS

10th Anniversary Celebration

On October 26th, the energy in the Kennedy Institute was incredible with a sold-out crowd and an unforgettable celebration marking our 10th Anniversary—a milestone honoring inspired leadership and a decade of impact. More than 500 guests filled the Institute with excitement and pride as we reflected on ten years of advancing civic engagement and strengthening our democracy. The evening was highlighted by the presentation of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute Lifetime Achievement Award to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., and the 2025 Award for Inspired Leadership to Secretary Martin J. Walsh and Ret. Admiral Lisa Franchetti—three remarkable public servants whose lives embody the spirit of service, courage, and commitment that defines our mission.
Watch Here ([link removed])

Populism, Conservatism, and Civility: A Conversation with Vice President Mike Pence

On October 1st, the Kennedy Institute hosted a special conversation with the 48th Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, on the challenges of governing in a polarized era, the importance of civic dialogue in sustaining democracy, and the future of the Republican Party. Moderated by Meghan McCain, host of the "Citizen McCain" podcast, the discussion also underscored opportunities to strengthen bipartisanship and constructive dialogue across differences. The program was one of two signature events the Kennedy Institute held as part of its 10th Anniversary Celebration.
Watch Here ([link removed])
CIVIC EDUCATION

Celebrating Excellence in Civic Education

In honor of the Kennedy Institute’s 10th anniversary, we are incredibly proud to recognize five educators for their leadership in civic education and valued partnership with the 2025 Edward M. Kennedy Award for Excellence in Civics Education! Through their commitment to civic education they bring democracy to life in their classrooms—empowering students to understand the responsibilities of citizenship, the power of public service, and the enduring importance of participation in civic life.

Each of these teachers has not only done exemplary civic education work in their own classrooms, but have also made significant contributions to the non-partisan educational mission of the Kennedy Institute, including helping to re-design and enhance our SIM program; creating and sharing lessons in civic dialogue and civic art; and leading students in a rigorous exploration of the Constitution.

2025 Award Recipients:

Pat McGravey, 8th grade civic teacher, North Andover Middle School
Damian Aufiero, high school history teacher, Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers.
James Hobin, artist and high school visual arts educator, Boston International High School.
Kate Sintros, high school social studies teacher, Hopkinton High School in New Hampshire.
Kelley Brown, high school history and government teacher, Easthampton High School

Congratulations and thank you to these tremendous educators, whose passion, innovation, and dedication embody the Institute’s mission to inspire the next generation of informed, engaged citizens and leaders! To learn more about these amazing educators, visit us on social media in the coming weeks.
YOUR SUPPORT

We want to thank you for being a loyal reader of our On The Point newsletter. If you haven't already, we encourage you to take the next step of becoming a member of the Kennedy Institute. In addition to supporting the Kennedy Institute’s mission and offerings, membership includes pre-scheduled tours and visits at no cost for one year; advanced notice of upcoming special events, exhibits, and programs; member-only updates throughout the year; and special pricing for ticketed Kennedy Institute events.

Your membership supports our mission to inspire all Americans to participate in the civic life of our communities and our country, and to educate K-12 students and people of all ages about the unique role of the Senate in our democracy.
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