Earlier this week I welcomed Nancy Pelosi — the first woman and the first Californian to serve as speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives — to campus to announce the 2027 launch of a landmark institute dedicated to strengthening democracy. As America’s 250th anniversary invites us to reflect on our nation’s history, celebrate its successes, and build an even better future, I can think of no better way to honor this moment.
The Nancy Pelosi Institute for Representative Democracy, or NPI, will be a nonpartisanhub for research, teaching, and civic engagement focused on understanding and addressing democracy’s opportunities and challenges. It will be anchored in the Charles and Louise Travers Department of Political Science and will draw on strengths from across our university.
“The work of democracy is never finished, and securing its future is our greatest calling,” Pelosi said. She noted Berkeley’s “long, proud history” of “producing leaders who run toward the greatest challenges of our time” and said she is honored to partner with our community to equip students with tools to strengthen our democratic institutions.
The NPI’s signature programs will include:
-
Faculty research on a range of potential issues, such as how electoral reforms can reduce polarization;
-
New courses built around addressing America’s opportunities and challenges with evidence-based solutions, as well as experiential learning opportunities that engage students in issues they care about — all designed to prepare students for public leadership;
-
A visiting fellows program that will bring public service leaders from both sides of the aisle to campus to teach and mentor students;
-
An annual nonpartisan forum for global thought leaders.
Following her retirement next year, Pelosi will co-teach a course on Congress with Professor Eric Schickler, giving students unequaled insight into the inner workings of the American democratic process. The Bancroft Library will also host an exhibit on Pelosi’s life.
To date, the NPI has received more than $32 million in philanthropic commitments. Efforts are underway to raise additional support, including for the creation of a Center for the U.S. House of Representatives within the NPI.
Everything Berkeley represents — from exploration and innovation to freedom of expression and upward mobility — makes it quintessentially American. Pelosi has profoundly impacted American politics and cares deeply about the next generation. Establishing an institute in her name aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering civil discourse, serving the common good, and preparing our students to lead with integrity and compassion. The NPI will do more than simply study democracy; it will strengthen it. I wish you a happy Fourth of July and the United States a fantastic 250th anniversary!
Fiat Lux, and Go Bears!
Chancellor Rich Lyons
Chancellor’s Choice
Summer reading list— “California” magazine has selected 10 Berkeley-related reads to dive into this summer. Choices include “We’re Having Much More Fun,” a celebration of punk across the United States over multiple generations; “Good Things,” an essential, joyful guide to cooking and living; and “Summer of Love,” a moving novel that follows the life-changing journeys of three women from one family. Explore the list.
Watch: Why people leave California—In this video, Evan White, co-executive director of the California Policy Lab, details how the high cost of living is driving some residents to consider leaving the Golden State. It is part of a series in which Berkeley experts explain their research in 101 seconds. Other recent episodes include cultural analytics and psychedelic science.