Mission Statement 

Purdue’s Cornerstone Institute for Civic Thought (CICT) advances the study and practice of civic life by fostering informed citizenship, principled leadership, rigorous scholarship, and open dialogue on the foundations of a free society and constitutional democracy.

Rooted in the principles of free inquiry and freedom of expression, the Institute bridges disciplines to explore how citizens understand their rights and responsibilities in sustaining self-government. Through foundational texts, education, research, and community, CICT cultivates the habits of civic participation and intellectual engagement that strengthen democratic culture and civil society.

Values Statement                                                        

As part of a land-grant university, the Cornerstone Institute for Civic Thought affirms its commitment to expanding opportunity and advancing knowledge for the common good. Our work is guided by these core values:

Free Inquiry and Expression
We uphold freedom of thought, expression, and open dialogue as the foundation of education and civic understanding.

Intellectual Pluralism
We value and foster an environment of multiple perspectives where differing viewpoints are engaged thoughtfully and with mutual respect.

Institutional Neutrality
We maintain neutrality in our classrooms and programs to protect intellectual integrity and ensure all ideas can be examined with fairness and respect.

Civic Virtue and Responsibility
We seek to model and nurture the civic habits—respect, tolerance, humility, and integrity—that sustain a free and self-governing people.

Land-Grant Commitment
We honor Purdue’s land-grant mission by expanding access to civic learning, bridging disciplines, and preparing principled leaders and engaged citizens for every field of endeavor.