Washington, PA (February 12, 2025)
Scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Senator John Heinz History Center, the symposium will commence with a VIP reception at 5 p.m., setting the stage for Mr. Meacham’s highly anticipated lecture at 7 p.m. This exclusive event is tailored for the Washington & Jefferson College community, including students, faculty, alumni, and invited guests, and is not open to the general public.
Jon Meacham’s keynote address, titled “Being an Informed, Involved, and Impactful Citizen,” will delve into the critical responsibilities of citizens in contemporary democracy. Drawing upon his celebrated literary works, such as Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power and The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, Meacham is poised to offer profound historical perspectives on the forces that have molded American democracy and underscore the essential roles individuals play in upholding its fundamental principles.
For Washington & Jefferson College, this marks the eighth consecutive year hosting the Symposium on Democracy, underscoring the institution’s deep-seated commitment to nurturing critical discussions around civic leadership, historical understanding, and public service. The collaboration with the Senator John Heinz History Center in 2025 amplifies this enduring mission, bringing the symposium to a location steeped in historical significance.
“Democracy is more than a system of governance; it flourishes through education and active involvement,” stated Dr. Elizabeth MacLeod Walls, President of Washington & Jefferson College. “As an institution deeply rooted in history and reflective of the ideals championed by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, W&J is dedicated to presenting thought-provoking dialogues to a wider audience at the Senator John Heinz History Center, leveraging history to inform and guide future-oriented conversations.”
The Senator John Heinz History Center provides an exceptional backdrop for this significant event, seamlessly connecting the symposium’s themes to the expansive historical narrative of Western Pennsylvania and the United States. This program resonates strongly with the History Center’s America 101 initiative, which is designed to encourage residents of Western Pennsylvania to delve into history and civics, inspiring them to become active participants in shaping the future of democracy. Moreover, the History Center is a co-founder of History Made By Us, a collaborative network of museums committed to broadening access to history and civics education for young adults through reliable, current content and resources from cultural institutions across the nation.
“As the Smithsonian’s affiliate in Pittsburgh, the Senator John Heinz History Center is delighted to partner with Washington & Jefferson College in hosting this timely and crucial program,” remarked Andy Masich, president and CEO of the History Center. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of America in 2026, it is imperative that we empower and motivate young citizens to deepen their knowledge of history and civics. The Senator John Heinz History Center is proud to be a central hub for these essential dialogues.”
The Senator John Heinz History Center is not just a museum; it’s a vibrant educational institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of Western Pennsylvania within the broader context of American history. As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the nation’s largest museum complex, the Heinz History Center offers unparalleled access to historical resources and expertise. Hosting the Symposium on Democracy aligns perfectly with the History Center’s mission to engage the public with critical issues facing our nation, using history as a lens for understanding the present and shaping the future. Visitors to the Heinz History Center can explore a vast array of exhibits, from the detailed history of Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage to the pivotal moments in American history that have shaped our democratic ideals. The center’s commitment to education extends beyond its exhibits, offering a range of programs and initiatives aimed at fostering civic engagement and historical literacy, making it an ideal partner for Washington & Jefferson College’s Symposium on Democracy.
MEDIA NOTE: Media representatives are welcome to cover Jon Meacham’s lecture at the Symposium on Democracy, scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Please note that Mr. Meacham will not be available for individual interviews.
About Washington & Jefferson College
Founded in 1781, Washington & Jefferson College, situated in Washington, PA, is a distinguished liberal arts college renowned for its emphasis on ethical leadership, career readiness, and inclusive community building. For further details, please visit www.washjeff.edu or contact 888-W-AND-JAY.
About the Senator John Heinz History Center
The Senator John Heinz History Center, a Smithsonian affiliate and Pennsylvania’s largest history museum, is dedicated to presenting American history with a distinctive Western Pennsylvania focus. Recognized nationally, the History Center was recently honored as the #1 history museum in America by USA Today and acclaimed as Pittsburgh’s Best Museum by Pittsburgh Magazine readers. Located at 1212 Smallman Street in Pittsburgh’s vibrant Strip District, the History Center’s museum family also includes the Sports Museum, the Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park, and Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village in Avella, PA. For more information, please visit heinzhistorycenter.org.
