A Special Conference on the Future of Conservative Thought
In Partnership with the Russell Kirk Center
Join us for a distinguished two-day conference, held in collaboration with the Russell Kirk Center, as we delve into the enduring relevance—and uncertain future—of the Anglo-American intellectual conservative tradition.
Guided by the complementary legacies of Russell Kirk and Roger Scruton, this event will explore the philosophical and humanistic roots of conservatism in the English-speaking world. From culture and religion to education and public life, we will examine the tradition’s vital contributions—and the challenges it now faces in a rapidly shifting intellectual landscape.
At a time when the reputation of conservatism is often mischaracterized or dismissed, the insights of Kirk and Scruton offer clarity, depth, and a much-needed moral compass.
Jeffrey O. Nelson, Ferenc Hörcher, and Daniel Pitt have brought together a global roster of scholars—alongside a rising generation of fresh voices—to reflect on the past, present, and future of this rich intellectual tradition. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to engage with some of the leading thinkers shaping the next chapter of conservative thought.
Details on Attending
Where
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
303 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
When
Date: Friday, June 27 - Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: See conference agenda below for times.
Program Supporters
Thank you to the following supporters who are helping bring this event to the Ford:
Secchia Family Foundation
Conference Agenda
Friday, June 27
12:30-1:00 p.m.
Registration
1:00-1:30 p.m.
Welcome by Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation
1:30-3:00 p.m.
Session 1: The Philosophical Foundations of Conservatism
James Matthew Wilson, University of St. Thomas, Houston
Michael Federici, Middle Tennessee State University
Micah Watson, Calvin University
Paul Mueller, American Institute for Economic Research
3:00-3:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break
3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Session 2: Friends of the Permanent Things
Jeff Nelson, The Russell Kirk Center
Timothy Fuller, Colorado College
Michael Lucchese, Law & Liberty
Christina Lambert, Hillsdale College
Saturday, June 28
8:30-9:00 a.m.
Registration
9:00–10:30 a.m.
Session 3: Conservatism and Cultural Renewal
Ferenc Hörcher, Ludovika University/University of Hull/Institute of Philosophy of the HUN-REN
Christopher Scalia, AEI
Ishaan Jajodia, Yale University
Fisher Derderian, Scruton Legacy Society
10:30-11:00 a.m.
Refreshment Break
11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Session 4: Conservatism and Religion
Ronen Shoval, Argaman Institue for Advanced Studies, Jerusalem
Glenn Moots, Northwood University
Emma Webb, Writer & Broadcaster
Mathis Bitton, Harvard University
12:30-2:30 p.m.
Lunch - On Your Own
2:30-4:00 p.m.
Session 5: Conservatism and Education
Daniel Pitt, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Buckingham
Darrell Falconburg, The Russell Kirk Center
Matt Beech, University of Hull
Ben Lockerd, Grand Valley State University
4:00-4:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break
4:30-6:00 p.m.
Session 6: Kirk, Scruton, and Contemporary Conservatism
Jeff Polet, Ford Presidential Foundation
John Grove, Law & Liberty
Bracy Bersnak, Christendom College
Chris Fear, University of Hull
6:00-6:15 p.m.
Closing Remarks by Jeff Nelson, Executive Director of the Russell Kirk Center