On April 15, Newport welcomes renowned scholar and author Robert D. Putnam, whose lecture, “What is the State of American Democracy Today?” is co-sponsored by Salve Regina University and RENewport, a collaboration of local nonprofit and business leaders. Best known for Bowling Alone in America: The Collapse and Revival of American Community, Putnam addresses the cultural consequences of dramatically declining rates of participation in America’s civic associations, from religious communities to recreational clubs such as the eponymous bowling league.

In preparation for Putnam’s visit, retired educator Jere A. Wells will address the significant history of American participation in civic associations, a defining feature of our culture dating back to colonial times.

Jere Wells taught at both the secondary and university levels for over 45 years. As part of his background in educational leadership, he served as director of the Glenn Institute for Philanthropy and Service Learning in Atlanta and, more recently, as director of the Educational Leadership and Ministry program at Yale Divinity School. He currently lives in Newport, where his wife, the Rev. Della Wager Wells, is the rector of historic Emmanuel Church.

Open to the public. Free.