Georgetown Professor William English Confirmed to National Council on the Humanities

William English, assistant professor of strategy, economics, ethics, and public policy, has been confirmed to the National Council on the Humanities. The council’s board comprises 26 American citizens who are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Each member serves on the council for six years.

The council advises the chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities, which supports programs related to the humanities, such as research grants for universities, the creation of documentaries, and the preservation of American artifacts. 

“I was impressed by the vision that was communicated by the White House and the chairman. Both are keen to encourage what’s sometimes called ‘public humanities’ — finding ways to articulate and to connect ‘the best that has been thought and said’ to the lived experience of everyday Americans,” English said.

English is particularly excited about contributing to a forthcoming initiative launched called “A More Perfect Union,” which will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the country’s founding in 2026. “At a time in which there are many dynamics that divide Americans, I look forward to working with the chairman to develop this initiative in support of projects that explore aspects of our common good that bring us together and the overarching ideals that have made America great,” he said. 

English joined Georgetown McDonough in 2016 and previously worked at Harvard University, including as research director for the Emond J. Safra Center for Ethics.He also founded the Abigail Adams Institute, an educational nonprofit that focuses on the humanities. 

English’s term began on August 5, 2019, and will run until January 26, 2024. “It’s a great honor to have been nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate and now to play a small role in serving on the council,” he said.