Support the Center
Donate to support the Cardin Center's mission of debate and scholarship on issues related to civic engagement.
Signature Initiatives
Annual Ben and Myrna Cardin Lecture on Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse
The Annual Ben and Myrna Cardin Lecture is the Cardin Center’s premier public program, bringing distinguished national voices to Towson University for timely conversations on democracy, civic responsibility, civil discourse, public service and leadership. The lecture creates a forum where students, faculty, alumni, community members and public leaders can engage the issues shaping democratic life and consider the responsibilities required to strengthen it.
Cardin Summer Scholars Program
In partnership with the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry (OURCI), the Cardin Summer Scholars Program supports undergraduate students whose research or creative projects advance the Cardin Center’s mission of civil discourse, civic responsibility, community leadership, and democratic participation. The program provides funded summer research opportunities guided by faculty mentors and connected to the Cardin Center’s public programming. Through this work, students turn civic interest into civic practice.
Democracy for the Future Series
The Democracy for the Future Series convenes public leaders, scholars, journalists, students, and civic voices to examine urgent questions facing democratic life. Programs in the series explore issues such as public trust, misinformation, transparency, accountability, public health, foreign policy, democratic institutions, and the future of civic participation.
Student Engagement
Student engagement is central to the mission. Towson University students work directly with the Cardin Center to support programs, contribute to research, engage with public leaders and participate in civic conversations guided by faculty mentors. Through this work, students gain practical experience in dialogue, leadership, public service and the habits of informed citizenship.
Campus and Community Programming
The Cardin Center’s campus and community programming brings together university and public audiences to explore complex civic issues through respectful, informed and constructive conversation. These events connect classroom learning with public life, create opportunities for dialogue across differences and position Towson University as a trusted gathering place for serious civic engagement.
Get Involved
To learn more about upcoming events, student opportunities or how to support the Cardin Center, subscribe to our updates or contact us at cardincenter AT_TOWSON.