History of the Institute
The Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society has a long and rich history as a partner of Mount Rushmore and the National Park Service. Established in 1930 to assist with fundraising for the sculpture, the Society is one of the oldest non-profit partners in America. The Mount Rushmore Institute is a subsidiary of this esteemed organization.
In the fall of 2004, Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society President James S. Nelson shared a thought-provoking vision for the formation of a Mount Rushmore Institute. He called for an institute to advance freedom and democracy. In the spring of 2005, Society President Johnny Brockelsby appointed a committee, chaired by the now former Society President James Nelson, to prepare a plan for the creation of the Mount Rushmore Institute. The committee met with members of the society, the National Park Service, and invited members of the community to identify the desirable aspects of the mission and operation of the Mount Rushmore Institute. The results of these discussions have shaped development of the Institute.
On December 8, 2005, the Board of Directors of the Mount Rushmore Society approved the formation of the Mount Rushmore Institute, filed Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State, and adopted the following mission:
The Mount Rushmore Institute will provide an environment of learning and dialogue, inspired by the world-renowned sculpture, to advance the cause of freedom and the principles of democracy.
Here, in the shadow of Mount Rushmore, in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, the power of place will provide a meaningful context and unique setting for personal reflection and expression.
Freedom. Liberty. Vision. Diversity. Opportunity. Leadership.
Prepare to be inspired.
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