Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse

College of Humanities and Sciences

Student Resources

Where democratic values thrive, civil discourse is celebrated and communities are empowered to engage in the democratic process.

The Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse at Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Humanities and Sciences is dedicated to strengthening democratic values, nurturing civic collaboration, promoting a civil exchange of ideas, and empowering citizens throughout VCU, Richmond, and beyond. Learn more about us.

News & Events

News

On Friday, Sept. 25, the Virginia Student Voting Summit will bring students, campus administrators, election officials and community advocates to VCU for an event promoting civic engagement. (Getty Images)

Sept. 22, 2026

Virginia Student Voting Summit comes to VCU this week

Presented by the Division of Student Affairs, the Baldacci Institute and the Campus Vote Project, the annual nonpartisan event promotes civic engagement.

A collection of colorful, textured speech bubbles in various sizes—including shades of orange, yellow, pink, blue, and teal—arranged on a dark blue background.

Sept. 17, 2026

VCU Launches the Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse

VCU has launched the Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse, supported by a $13 million gift from Michelle and David Baldacci, to foster respectful nonpartisan dialogue and civic engagement across political differences in Virginia.

Redrawn congressional maps in a number of states seem poised to play a major role in the results of Nov. 3 midterm elections, according to VCU expert Alex Keena. (Getty Images)

Sept. 10, 2026

How will redistricting impact the midterm elections?

VCU political science professor and redistricting expert Alex Keena says the Nov. 3 elections will be a test case for the effectiveness of gerrymandering – and explains why the practice is a riskier strategy than it appears.

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Events

Oct
13

  • 5 p.m.

Oct
20

  • 9 a.m.

Oct
28

  • 5:30 PM

More events