RENEWport will bring internationally-renowned political scientist and author Professor Robert D. Putnam to Newport in April. Putnam’s visit will feature his keynote address “What is the State of American Democracy Today?” on April 15, 2025 at 5:00PM at Salve Regina University. The event is free and open to the public, with online RSVP at https://renewport.org/event/the-state-of-american-democracy-today/
Deep and accelerating inequality; unprecedented political polarization; vitriolic public discourse; a fraying social fabric; public and private narcissism—Americans today seem to agree on only one thing: This is the worst of times. How did we get here and what can we do about it? -Dr. Robert Putnam
Putnam is in high demand for his perspective and writing about the decline of the American community and its impact on American democracy. He has recently appeared on The Daily Show, PBS NewsHour, and Trevor Noah’s podcast, What Now? Putnam is the Malkin Research Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University. He has written fifteen books, translated into twenty languages, including Making Democracy Work: Civic Traditions in Italy and Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community, both among the most cited (and bestselling) social science works in nearly a century. His full bio can be found at RENEWport’s website.
During his visit to Newport, Putnam will meet with local students, tour the city, and visit with local nonprofit organizations. Putnam said, “Newport has played a significant role in American history. My wife Rosemary and I are excited to visit contemporary Newport and talk about its role in today’s America.”
This visit is made possible through the generous support of Dwight and Susan Sipprelle, Jane Timken, and Stephen and Jennie Huttler. RENEWport would also like to thank Salve Regina University, the Rhode Island Foundation, and the Preservation Society of Newport County. Ellen Pinnock, RENEWport Co-President said, “RENEWport is thrilled to welcome renowned author Dr. Robert Putnam to Newport! I believe his visit will both highlight Newport’s existing community connection and help deepen our understanding on social capital and belonging.”
Leading up to Dr. Putman’s visit, RENEWport has coordinated a schedule of events centered around building community. These events include an art making night with Newport Art House, storytelling with Tell Newport, a screening of Putnam’s Join or Die, a collaborative music experience with the New England Music Organization, a screening of Checkpoint Zoo by NewportFILM, and a talk by Jere Wells: “Not Always Bowling Alone in America – A Cultural History of American Civic Associations.” Details for these events can be found at www.renewport.org/events.
RENEWport Founder and Co-President Sue Sipprelle said, “We are extremely honored by Professor Putnam’s visit to Newport. His work shows that social connection is key for individual wellbeing and for strengthening our democracy. We believe that Newport is a shining example of community connection, and we continue to strive to make the city a place for all to thrive.”
The public is encouraged to attend the April 15 event at Salve Regina University and the community events leading up to Putnam’s visit. More information and online RSVP can be found at www.renewport.org.
