Third Founding
National Launch Event
Thursday, November 12, 2026
Rotunda and Grounds, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Featuring Keynote Address by Pulitzer-Prize winning historian Jon Meacham,
“Foundings and Re-Foundings.”
By Invitation Only.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Open House and Drop-In Lunch: 11:30-1:30pm
Watson Manor, home of the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture, 3 University Circle, Charlottesville (Optional)
Event Program: 2-5 pm
Central Grounds of the University of Virginia
“The Call for a Third Founding,” James Davison Hunter, IASC Executive Director and author of Democracy and Solidarity: On the Cultural Roots of America’s Political Crisis.
“Re-envisioning Philanthropy in the Civic Space: A Panel Discussion,” Olivier Zunz, IASC Senior Fellow and author of Philanthropy in America and IASC and AEI Senior Fellow Daniel Stid, publisher of “The Art of Association."
Cocktail Reception and Dinner: 5-8:30 pm
University of Virginia Rotunda, University Ave, Charlottesville
Dinner in the Dome Room of the Rotunda and Keynote Address by
Pulitzer-Prize winning historian Jon Meacham, “Foundings and Re-Foundings.”
After Dinner Discussion & Drinks : 8:30-10:30 pm
Watson Manor, 3 University Circle, Charlottesville (Optional)
This event is by invitation only.
Recommended Accomodations
An elegant, modern, comfortable retreat just steps from the University’s most inspiring spaces complete with a rooftop bar and restaurant.
The Virginia Guesthouse
A grand, inviting Jeffersonian-style building housing a vibrant, modern space with eclectic gathering spots and a flourishing botanical garden and arboretum.
The Kimpton Forum Hotel
Transportation
Shuttles will provide transportation from the Virginia Guesthouse and the Forum Hotel to the events on Grounds and will make a return trip at the conclusion of the evening. Further information forthcoming.