Silent Cal Speaks to a New Generation
The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, under the leadership of Amity Shlaes, is dedicated to advancing the legacy of America’s 30th president. Coolidge, often remembered for his hands-off approach and fiscal conservatism, is celebrated as a model for free-market principles. “Coolidge is the best free-market model we have prior to Reagan,” Amity says. From her books about Coolidge to her work with the Foundation, Amity’s career has been dedicated to highlighting Coolidge’s presidential achievements in balancing the budget, cutting taxes, and reducing the national debt. In fact, it was the economic accomplishments of the administration that first kindled Amity’s interest in Coolidge.
A key initiative of the Foundation is the Coolidge Scholarship, a prestigious award that offers a full-ride “golden voucher” to any university in the United States. This scholarship is not just about financial support; it’s about promoting academic merit and the Coolidge legacy. Applicants demonstrate their academic abilities by researching and writing essays on Coolidge’s policies. While the scholarship is selective and few students are awarded, all who apply receive an education not just in early 20th century American history but also the principles of sound economics.
Another pillar of the Foundation’s programs for students is high school debate competitions. Though known as “Silent Cal,” Coolidge himself was a debater and despite his shyness “he found himself through debate,” Amity explains. “Our kids don’t debate how they feel in the morning or talk about their eating disorder. They talk about what Coolidge said, say about tariffs.” Key to this forum for constructive disagreement is the requirement to argue for both sides while remaining civil. “There’s no spirit sneering. We never attack anyone and say they’re a bad person. We never use code language or dog whistles. We don’t permit it. The kids have to make four arguments: four arguments for tariffs and four arguments against,” Amity explains. In this way, the Foundation’s debate competitions are not just about preserving Coolidge’s legacy but about preparing informed citizens who can critically engage with modern political and economic challenges.
Advancing Reagan’s Legacy in the 21st Century
David Trulio, president of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, is dedicated to advancing the legacy of one of America’s most influential presidents. The Foundation’s multifaceted approach includes policy work, educational programs, and public affairs initiatives, all designed to ensure that Reagan’s ideals continue to resonate in modern contexts. As David explains, “The Reagan Foundation and Institute is the sole nonprofit organization set up by President Reagan to advance his legacy and his principles.”
A key focus of the Reagan Foundation and Institute is advancing the ideas of Reagan’s economic policies and principles. The Foundation’s upcoming Reagan National Economic Forum, for example, aims to bring together policymakers, business leaders, and scholars to explore ways to strengthen American economic opportunity and innovation. David emphasizes the importance of these efforts in an era marked by fierce global competition and substantial domestic challenges. The Foundation’s nonpartisan approach to policy convenings creates a forum for dialogue on issues like national defense and economic strength, helping to shape informed public discourse and policy development.
The Foundation also places a strong emphasis on educational initiatives for students from elementary through college and beyond. Programs focus on civics, leadership, and economic opportunity, with the goal of instilling Reagan’s values in the next generation. Through experiential learning, digital education, and scholarship opportunities, the Foundation seeks to equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold the principles of freedom and democracy. As Reagan himself famously stated, “Freedom is a fragile thing and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction…It must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation.” David and his team are committed to ensuring that upcoming generations are prepared to take on this vital responsibility of passing on our freedoms.
