McConnell Center

McConnell Center Founded in 1991 to develop Kentucky's next generation of exceptional leaders. The McConnell Center was founded in 1991 by U.S. Chao Archives.

Senator Mitch McConnell and University of Louisville officials as a nonprofit, nonpartisan department. Every year, the McConnell Center offers tuition scholarships, travel opportunities, and liberal arts enrichment seminars to 40 McConnell Scholars; administers a public lecture series focused on American history and contemporary issues; coordinates civic education programs for Kentucky's social studies teachers and students; and oversees the U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell and Secretary Elaine L.

The McConnell Center mourns the death of Kentucky farmer and author, Wendell Berry. Berry's works play a valuable role i...
09/01/2026

The McConnell Center mourns the death of Kentucky farmer and author, Wendell Berry. Berry's works play a valuable role in our programming and have inspired many generations of McConnell Scholars.

We are especially grateful for Berry's generosity and the meaningful conversations that he shared with our students over the years. His influence will continue to guide us as we work to shape future generations of Kentucky leaders.

Don't forget to join us TOMORROW at 6 p.m. ET in the Horn Auditorium at the UofL College of Business for a public lectur...
09/01/2026

Don't forget to join us TOMORROW at 6 p.m. ET in the Horn Auditorium at the UofL College of Business for a public lecture with philosopher, educator and AI ethicist Dr. Christopher DiCarlo, author of "Building a God: The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the Race to Control It."

Free and open to the public. No registration required.

Learn more: https://ow.ly/sy2C50ZC1C6

09/01/2026

In this week's "America's Autobiography" series, Dr. Barbara Perry explores the Declaration of the Rights of the Women of the United States and its impact on American civic life. Watch the full discussion on YouTube or listen on your preferred podcast platform: https://youtu.be/YVj9qe0cSdk

Starting the freshman spotlight series is Vladimir Bagdasarian! 📚Vlad is a member of the McConnell Scholar Class of 2030...
08/31/2026

Starting the freshman spotlight series is Vladimir Bagdasarian! 📚

Vlad is a member of the McConnell Scholar Class of 2030 at the University of Louisville. A Lexington native and graduate of Lafayette High School, Vladimir is studying finance with a minor in political science. At Lafayette, he served as Head of Student Council, founded the Letters of Love Club, and held leadership roles in DECA, the Environmental Club, and Spanish Club, while also competing in varsity football and track & field. As a McConnell Scholar and Henry Vogt Scholar, Vladimir is interested in business, finance, leadership and government. Outside the classroom, he enjoys staying active, meeting new people and continually challenging himself to learn and grow.

This week in McConnell Center history, we look back to when we welcomed the 2018 Strategic Broadening Seminar cohort. As...
08/27/2026

This week in McConnell Center history, we look back to when we welcomed the 2018 Strategic Broadening Seminar cohort. As we prepare for our thirteenth cohort of soldiers this weekend, our faculty and students are excited to engage in meaningful discussions and to learn from them.đź’ˇ

‼️ DEADLINE TOMORROW, AUG. 28:  In partnership with the WKU Center for Gifted Studies, the Civic Leadership Institute is...
08/27/2026

‼️ DEADLINE TOMORROW, AUG. 28: In partnership with the WKU Center for Gifted Studies, the Civic Leadership Institute is for sophomores or juniors interested in leadership, law, government, history, economics, public policy, international relations, education, journalism, business or public service.

The Civic Leadership Institute is a selective, yearlong experience for high school students who aspire to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Through immersive Saturday sessions and an exciting summer capstone experience, the Civic Leadership Institute is a premier leadership experience where students build lifelong friendships, develop a portfolio of meaningful work, and gain exposure to a wide variety of career pathways connected to the social sciences and public life. MORE INFO: https://centers.louisville.edu/mcconnell-center/civic-education/kentucky-students/civic-leadership-institute

Applications are OPEN for the McConnell Scholars Program at UofL!Are you a Kentucky high school senior ready to challeng...
08/26/2026

Applications are OPEN for the McConnell Scholars Program at UofL!

Are you a Kentucky high school senior ready to challenge yourself, make a difference and become part of a community of exceptional student leaders?

The McConnell Scholars Program offers a four-year experience at the University of Louisville for students passionate about leadership, public service and the ideas that shape our world.

To be eligible, you must:
• Be a Kentucky resident and high school senior at the time of application
• Have a minimum 3.5 GPA and 26 ACT/1230 SAT
• Minor in political science at UofL

Applications are due Dec. 1. Learn more and apply: https://ow.ly/ogYa50ZC2ss

08/25/2026

In this week's edition of the "America's Autobiography" series, Dr. Jonathan Den Hartog discusses the enduring significance of Thomas Jefferson's first inaugural address. Watch the episode on YouTube or listen on your preferred podcast platform. https://ow.ly/FlfL50ZAv6u

Join the McConnell Center on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 6 p.m. ET for a public lecture with philosopher, educator and AI eth...
08/24/2026

Join the McConnell Center on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 6 p.m. ET for a public lecture with philosopher, educator and AI ethicist Dr. Christopher DiCarlo, author of "Building a God: The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the Race to Control It."

As AI rapidly transforms society, Dr. DiCarlo will explore the ethical challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies, as well as the critical-thinking skills we need to navigate an increasingly complex world.

An award-winning lecturer and internationally recognized expert in ethics and critical thinking, Dr. DiCarlo has taught at Harvard University and advises organizations on AI governance.

Free and open to the public. No registration required.

Learn more and join us for this timely conversation about the future of AI: https://ow.ly/sy2C50ZC1C6

Kentucky educators are invited to apply for the McConnell Center’s Fall 2026 Regional Workshops. These workshops offer a...
08/21/2026

Kentucky educators are invited to apply for the McConnell Center’s Fall 2026 Regional Workshops. These workshops offer a chance to study and discuss primary sources from our new publication, "America’s Autobiography: Key Documents That Tell Our Story,” alongside fellow educators and leading scholars.

Topics include:
Freedom from Fear or Want: FDR’s Vision for America
George Washington: Citizen, Soldier, Statesman
The Continuing Challenge of Race and Constitutionalism

Each workshop is limited to 15 participants. Selected educators receive a complimentary copy of the book, substitute teacher reimbursement and lunch.

Apply by Sept. 30. Learn more and apply: https://ow.ly/oAFA50ZBXY1

Address

2215 S 3rd Street
Louisville, KY
40208

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+15028521473

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