A Programmatic Home for Penn in D.C. Initiatives of Penn Washington

Penn Washington embodies the imperatives of the University of Pennsylvania’s strategic framework, In Principle and Practice, “to address Truth, Trust, and Democracy as one of the great challenges that command our attention, to deepen connections with neighbors and the world, and to foster leadership and service.”  

Penn Washington represents a strategic effort by the University of Pennsylvania to enhance its presence and influence in Washington, D.C. By fostering a collaborative environment between Penn's diverse academic and research communities and the nation's capital, Penn Washington aims to drive impactful dialogue, robust programming, and collaborative solutions.

Specifically, Penn Washington aims to:

  • Increase visibility and linkages of Penn in federal and global policy communities.

  • Create opportunities for cutting edge Penn research to inform and influence policy discussions and development.

  • Deepen understanding of and connections to federal and global policy makers for Penn faculty and scholars.

  • Expand opportunities for educational and academic programs to connect to Washington, DC.

To propel these efforts forward, Penn's home in D.C. houses Penn Washington Programs and two strategic initiatives: the Biden Center and the Franklin Initiative. 

The Biden Center

The Biden Center expands the University of Pennsylvania's global policy engagement. The Center, named in honor of the 46th U.S. President Joseph R. Biden, aims to enhance dialogue on critical global issues and shape effective policy solutions. It serves as a hub for in-depth analysis and dialogue on diplomacy, international relations, and global challenges, leveraging the expertise of Penn's faculty and global network.

The Biden Center engages Penn’s students and partners with its faculty and global centers to convene leaders, policymakers, and experts to strengthen the debate for continued American global leadership in the 21st century.

The Franklin Initiative

Complementing the Biden Center, the Franklin Initiative addresses key U.S. domestic policy issues, including economic inequality, healthcare reform, and infrastructure. It promotes dialogue and research to produce actionable insights and innovative solutions, bridging theory and practice through collaboration with policymakers and community leaders.

Two principal programs of the Franklin Initiative include:

  • Fixing Congress addresses extreme polarization by fostering bipartisan cooperation and implementing reforms to restore effective governance and public trust.

  • Rebuilding Government & Higher Education Relations aims to mend the growing distrust between Congress and higher education institutions by examining historical contexts and devising strategies for future enhancement.

The Franklin Initiative's focus on domestic policy highlights Penn's commitment to understanding and addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the United States today. Through this effort, the initiative seeks to enhance the effectiveness of policy interventions and promote sustainable, equitable solutions for the nation.

Penn Washington Programs

Penn Washington Programs focuses on integrating Penn research, students, and scholars into DC. The programs will also offer Penn students a unique opportunity to meet policymakers and network with alumni working in the nation's capital.