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 as a natural extension of UVA’s founding mission to advance knowledge and prepare student leaders for self-government, the Institute serves as a hub for interdisciplinary scholarship, research, teaching, and vibrant public engagement.
Promise of Democracy Fund
Support the work of the Karsh Institute by making a secure gift online.
www.givecampus.com
As a pan-university institute, the Karsh Institute connects and amplifies democracy-focused work that has flourished at UVA for decades. By unifying expertise across disciplines and fostering collaboration, the Institute creates high-impact programs that extend the University’s reach far beyond Grounds. It also serves as the institutional home to three affiliate organizations: UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, the Democracy and Capitalism Lab, and the Digital Technology for Democracy Lab.
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.