Rodel Institute
Project Title
In support of the Rodel Judicial Fellowship Program
Date
Sep. 11, 2025
Duration
24 months
Description
At a time when the federal courts will be asked to decide a huge number of high-profile cases that may determine the fate of our constitutional form of government, and public trust in the federal judiciary is at a historic low, Rodel will provide a forum where judges gather together and deeply examine how to counter polarization and reduce public perception of judges as divisive, political actors. A successful Fellowship will result in more judges recognizing their leadership responsibilities and taking action to promote understanding of judicial neutrality and the rule of law. By the end of this project there should be over 100 judges who have gone through the fellowship, providing a stronger base for each other in these critical times, and the potential for collective impact.
Website
Project Title
In support of the Rodel Congressional Fellowship Program
Date
Dec. 11, 2025
Duration
24 months
Description
Founded at the Aspen Institute in 2005 and now an independent nonprofit, the Rodel Institute strengthens democracy by helping America’s most promising elected leaders and judges govern with integrity, wisdom, and bipartisan cooperation. With politicalpolarization at historic levels, Rodel proposes to launch a new program—the Rodel Congressional Fellowship—to extend its proven model to members of Congress. This year-long series of intensive, bipartisan seminars will foster principled leadership, cross-party trust, and renewed commitment to democratic norms. Carnegie’s support will fund staff recruitment, curriculum design, and three seminars for a diverse, bipartisan cohort of 16 participants. By improving relationships and ethical leadership among members, this pilot has the potential to strengthen congressional culture and advance the health of American democracy.