As the nation has its 250th anniversary, the founder and CEO/president of the Presidential Precinct reflect on the theme of “civic responsibility,” the importance and role of journalism, and how citizens can pursue a flourishing society, with a particular focus on developing the next generation of leaders.
This session features Toyosi Ogunseye and Jim Murray of the Presidential Precinct in a conversation that bridges personal narrative, global insight, and local responsibility. The session will begin with Ogunseye’s story—her journey in journalism, the risks and responsibilities of telling the truth, and how her experience as a fellow at the Presidential Precinct has shaped her understanding of leadership and civic courage. From there, the discussion will expand to a global perspective, exploring why democracy and civic engagement remain essential in an era marked by polarization, misinformation, and democratic backsliding, and what it means for individuals to actively participate in sustaining free societies.
The second half of the session will turn to Charlottesville and its unique role in this conversation. As a community with a complex civic history and a growing ecosystem of engaged institutions, Charlottesville offers both cautionary lessons and real opportunities for leadership in democratic renewal. The conversation will highlight how philanthropy can play a catalytic role in advancing regional storytelling, supporting civic projects, and amplifying diverse voices—helping to build a more informed, connected, and participatory local democracy.
Tom Tom blog spotlighting Toyosi Ogunseye********
Note: This Summit session is ticketed.
Please purchase your
tickets on Humanitix. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.
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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 14th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, Virginia Tourism, R.L. Beyer Custom Homes, Ludwig Kuttner, and The City of Charlottesville
