Towson University officially opened the doors on the Ben and Myrna Cardin Center for Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse Wednesday. Elected officials came from across the state to celebrate the creation of a dynamic hub that fosters open dialogue, respectful debate and active citizenship. 

The center was established in partnership with former U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin and Myrna Cardin ’65. It will be co-chaired by the couple, bringing together Senator Cardin’s 58 years of experience as a legislator and Myrna’s deep understanding of TU as an alumna and past chair of the advisory board. Together, they will work with TU students, faculty, staff and community partners to host events and programs that promote constructive dialogue on critical societal issues.

"We need to talk today. Need to bring this nation together. We're so divided, and here at Towson they're committed to listening to people of different views to find common solutions to our problems," says Senator Cardin. "So we hope that the center will be a magnet for those types of discussions."

More than 200 guests and nearly a dozen elected officials attended the opening, reflecting the critical importance of advancing civil discourse at this moment in time.

"We feel so honored to be chosen to lead such a profound initiative," says Myrna. "The mission of the center is very clear—a tall order, definitely, but we believe everyone can make a difference."

Ben Cardin was named TU’s second Presidential Scholar this fall. The center will host signature programs including an annual lecture series, research opportunities for students in partnership with faculty, collaborations with other universities, and public events that address complex civic challenges.