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Pluralism in Practice: A Conversation with Raj Vinnakota & President Jacqueline Edmondson
The USM Forum on American Democracy conversation continues with Raj Vinnakota, President of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars, in a public dialogue with USM President Jacqueline Edmondson. Together, they will explore the challenges and opportunities of pluralism in contemporary American society, building on themes introduced in Eboo Patel’s keynote (September 3).
Drawing from his extensive work in civic learning, youth engagement, and public scholarship, Vinnakota will reflect on how pluralism can be practiced at scale — across institutions, communities, and generations — and what it will take to prepare citizens for a thriving, inclusive democracy. The evening will offer a deeper look at how leadership, education, and civic networks can support a more connected and participatory civic culture.
This event is free and open to the public, and registration is required in advance.
Meeting friends for the event? Wander over the street to the Husky Brew in the McGoldrick Center for Career & Student Success for a drink, coffee, or bite before or after the event!
About Raj Vinnakota
Civic Leader. Social Entrepreneur. Advocate for Democracy
Raj Vinnakota is the President of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars, where he leads a national effort to cultivate lifelong, effective citizens through civic learning, scholarship, and cross-sector partnerships. A pioneering social entrepreneur, Vinnakota co-founded the SEED Foundation, the first U.S. network of public, college-prep boarding schools for underserved students — work that earned recognition from Oprah Winfrey, Harvard University, and Fast Company.
Before his current role, Raj served as Executive Vice President at the Aspen Institute, where he launched the Youth & Engagement Programs division focused on youth leadership and civic opportunity. He currently co-chairs civic task forces for both the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and the Partnership for American Democracy, and is a frequent commentator in national media on Gen Z, civic education, and democratic renewal.
A graduate of Princeton University and recipient of its highest alumni honor — the Woodrow Wilson Award — Vinnakota’s career has been dedicated to ensuring that all Americans, regardless of background, are empowered to participate fully in civic life.
Learn more about Raj Vinnakota
- 🔗 Propelling Society Forward: Q&A with Rajiv Vinnakota, Institute for Citizens & Scholars
- 🎥 Arguing Joyfully with Raj Vinnakota, Liston on Purpose Podcast, LionTree
About the Forum
The USM Forum on American Democracy is a year-long public series designed to engage the University of Southern Maine (USM) and the broader community in thoughtful conversations on the foundations and future of a democratic society. Hosted by President Edmondson, the Forum invites multiple perspectives on timely civic topics through keynote speakers, panel discussions, and campus-wide engagement.
Check out the full event series
Special Thanks
This event is made possible by the generous support of the Pond Family Foundation.