The University of Virginia’s Karsh Institute of Democracy works toward a future where democracy is not just an ideal, but a lived experience.
The nonpartisan Karsh Institute brings people together to generate ideas and solutions that build a better democracy for all. Launched in 2021 with a gift from UVA alumni Martha and Bruce Karsh, the Institute serves as a hub for interdisciplinary scholarship, research, teaching, and vibrant public engagement.
As a pan-University institute, Karsh connects and amplifies democracy-focused work that has flourished at UVA for decades. By bringing together expertise across disciplines, advancing signature research and programs, and fostering collaboration, the Institute turns ideas into action and extends the University’s impact far beyond Grounds.
Promise of Democracy Fund
Support the work of the Karsh Institute by making a secure gift online.
www.givecampus.com
Rooted in UVA’s Founding Mission
The University of Virginia was founded on the conviction that the success of a self-governing nation depends on an educated and engaged citizenry. Thomas Jefferson envisioned a university that would advance knowledge, prepare citizen leaders, and put into practice the ideals he had helped articulate in the Declaration of Independence.
More than two centuries later, that connection between knowledge and self-government remains central to UVA’s public mission. The University continues to pursue the promise of its founding ideals while confronting the distance between those aspirations and their realization throughout American history.
The Karsh Institute carries that purpose forward by building on UVA’s distinctive history while looking to the future of democratic self-government.
Mission and Story
The Karsh Institute is a natural extension of UVA’s founding mission to advance knowledge and prepare student leaders for self-governance.
Democracy @ UVA
As a nonpartisan, pan-University institute, we serve as a hub for collaboration, bringing together scholars, students, practitioners, and communities to strengthen democracy through research, teaching, public engagement, and real-world solutions.
By the Numbers 2024-2025
In the 2024–25 academic year, the Institute carried out a robust slate of programs, partnerships, research, and events—demonstrating our commitment to addressing democracy’s enduring and emerging challenges.
karshinstitute.virginia.edu
Resources
Find relevant resources from the Karsh Institute, including opportunities to get involved, the democracy course guide for UVA, and videos.