Washington College has launched the Hogan Institute, a new nonpartisan initiative focused on developing principled leadership and strengthening civic engagement among students. The institute was announced by former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan during the college’s 243rd Commencement ceremony.
The Hogan Institute will begin formal programming this fall and is designed to prepare students for lives of public service and responsible citizenship. It will emphasize leadership grounded in character, respect for institutions, and the ability to work across political differences. The initiative draws inspiration from Hogan’s record of bipartisan governance during his two terms as governor.
“When we look back at George Washington and the leaders who have shaped this country, we can’t help but yearn for something better and more noble than the politics of today,” Hogan said. “The Hogan Institute will be dedicated to preparing the next generation of citizen leaders and renewing the idea that public service is about a commitment to something greater than ourselves.”
Washington College President Bryan Matthews said the new institute aligns with the college’s historic mission of developing citizen leaders. Founded in 1782, Washington College has long emphasized critical thinking, communication, and civic responsibility in its liberal arts education.
“Through this exciting partnership with Governor Hogan, we will be able to give our students access to learn from one of our country’s true leaders in bipartisan leadership and civic engagement,” Matthews said.
The institute will offer workshops, seminars, and public forums that connect students with government leaders and practitioners at all levels. Programming will focus on leadership development, civil discourse, and practical approaches to problem-solving.
Christine Wade, chair of Washington College’s political science department and the Louis L. Goldstein Chair in Public Affairs, said the initiative will give students a stronger platform to understand the value of civic education and engagement.
“We teach our students that sustaining democracy requires their active participation,” Wade said. “The Hogan Institute will provide them with a new platform to learn the intrinsic value of civic education and engagement from a liberal arts perspective.”
The Hogan Institute will be housed at Washington College in Chestertown and will support the college’s broader goal of preparing graduates for engaged and principled citizenship. More information is available at washcoll.edu/hogan.
