Towson University has appointed Nora Demleitner as the inaugural executive director of the Ben and Myrna Cardin Center for Civic Engagement & Civil Discourse, effective Sept. 8.
Demleitner is a nationally respected higher education leader, legal scholar, and public policy expert. She was appointed after an extensive national search. As executive director, she will lead the Cardin Center in building on its first year, during which it fostered community engagement, civic participation, public service, and meaningful dialogue across Maryland and beyond.
“We are thrilled to have Nora Demleitner join our university community, partnering with Senator and Myrna Cardin, two visionary leaders, as she leads the center and supports its mission to advance civil discourse and strengthen American democracy,” said Towson University President Mark R. Ginsberg.
“The Cardin Center is a cornerstone of TU’s commitment to civic engagement and service for the public good,” Ginsberg continued. “[Demleitner’s] history of strategic leadership, professional experiences and expertise will enhance our efforts to address today’s most complex and critical issues—work that has never been more important.”
Demleitner is a senior fellow with the Council on Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan national organization focused on advancing safety, fairness and justice. Before that she was president of St. John’s College in Annapolis, where she pioneered programs that increased access, global engagement, and connected liberal arts education with career opportunities.
“We are delighted to welcome Nora Demleitner as our new partner at the Cardin Center,” said former U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Myrna Cardin, co-founders and co-chairs of the Cardin Center. “She has dedicated her career to advancing education and public service through thoughtful engagement, which is at the core of what we are building here at Towson University. Nora shares our values and our commitment to expanding educational opportunities that prepare students to lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and strengthen their communities. That makes her the right leader for the Cardin Center’s next chapter.”
The Ben and Myrna Cardin Center for Civic Engagement & Civil Discourse was founded in 2025 to be a hub for dialogue, community engagement, and public service. It advances Towson University’s commitment to civic learning and democratic participation.
“The Cardin Center has already established itself as an important space for meaningful dialogue and civic participation,” Demleitner said. “I am honored to join Towson University and work with President Ginsberg, Ben and Myrna Cardin, students, faculty, staff and community partners to strengthen civic engagement, advance meaningful dialogue and help to prepare the next generation of informed and engaged leaders.”
