Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
Walter P. Paepcke, Aspen Institute Co-Founder
Aspen Institute
Around the Institute | Winter 2017, IDEAS Article, and Longform
A Legacy of Values
December 1, 2017
Institute founder Walter Paepcke once said that seminars “help a leader gain access to his or her own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and more self-fulfilling.” This summer, Aspen Institute Heritage Society members participated in a custom seminar, “Values in the Crucible,” modeled after the classic Executive Seminar. The discussion tackled two topics: “The Republic of Conscience” and “Of Hope and History.” Participants explored their individual legacy and their role in creating a better future for generations to come. The seminar allowed individuals who have made a commitment to support the Institute beyond their lifetimes to celebrate the values at the core of its mission. The Heritage Society is composed of longstanding trustees and Society of Fellows members who have made a bequest or other planned gift. It also includes supporters who have forged a meaningful connection to a specific Institute initiative and want to ensure that its impact continues to grow. Their generosity will be felt throughout the Institute for generations.
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