Carol Quillen, the president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, discusses the importance of storytelling – rooted in historic places – in maintaining a healthy democratic society.

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

This presentation is part of a nationwide speaking tour Quillen launched last fall to commemorate the 75^th anniversary of the National Trust and celebrate its impact and partnerships in activating the Power of Place in communities – like Kansas City – across the United States. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately funded nonprofit organization working to save America's historic sites; tell the full American story; build stronger communities; and invest in preservation's future.

Prior to joining the National Trust, 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.