Higher education plays a vital role in sustaining a healthy democratic culture. Yet, over the past decade, public confidence in colleges and universities has declined sharply. At the same time, many institutions have retreated from their role in cultivating democratic citizens, placing greater emphasis on career preparation. What explains this erosion of trust? And how can higher education reclaim its civic mission? This panel will explore the causes of declining public confidence, the consequences for democracy, and potential pathways for renewing higher education’s civic purpose.

The Center for Revitalizing American Institutions hosts Democracy Day Panel 1: Campus & Country: Trust, Democracy, and Higher Education with Paul Brest, Brandice Canes-Wrone, Larry Diamond and Brian Coyne on November 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PT.