By sharing our stories and listening to the stories of others, Carol Quillen says, we can bridge divides, foster empathy and inspire civic connection and collective memory, all of which are vital to preserving our democracy.

Quillen, the president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation since January 2024, will discuss the importance of storytelling – rooted in historic places – in maintaining a healthy democratic society.

Her presentation commemorates the 75th anniversary of the National Trust, which is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Prior to joining NTHP, Quillen served as president of Davidson College from 2011-2022, with a focus on ensuring access and affordability, reimagining the liberal arts for today, and equipping graduates to lead in service of something larger than themselves. From 2022-2023, she was a senior fellow at the Aspen Institute.