America at 250: What Does It Take to Preserve a Free Nation?

What does it take to preserve the principles of a free nation—and prepare another generation to defend them? America’s 250th anniversary invites reflection on the responsibilities that come with independence. At its 2026 America 250 Gala, The Institute of World Politics brought together students, alumni, faculty, trustees, and supporters to mark that milestone and support the education of future leaders. In this Statecraft Unfiltered recap, IWP Broadcast Correspondent Olivia Fanders takes viewers inside the celebration at Washington’s Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, featuring conversations with attendees and scenes from the evening. The occasion raises a question that extends beyond the anniversary: how do we carry an inherited commitment to freedom into the decisions, institutions, and leadership that will shape America’s future? Explore the people and purpose behind IWP’s 2026 Gala.