Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate facts for kids
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| Location | 210 Morrissey Boulevard Columbia Point Boston, MA 02125 |
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| Type | Specialized, Historical, Biographical |
| Accreditation | American Alliance of Museums |
| Visitors | 62,000 visitors per year (this includes about 16,000 students) |
| Founder | Edward M. Kennedy & Victoria Reggie Kennedy |
| Architect | Rafael Viñoly |
| Public transit access | JFK/UMass station  |
| Nearest parking | On site (no charge) |
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is a special place in Boston, Massachusetts. It's often called the Kennedy Institute. This non-profit organization helps people learn about the U.S. government. It also encourages people to get involved in their communities.
The institute is located on Columbia Point. It's right next to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The institute is named after Edward M. Kennedy. He was a very important U.S. Senator for many years.
Inside, you can see a full-size copy of the U.S. Senate Chamber. There's also a replica of Senator Kennedy's office. Digital exhibits help visitors understand the Senate's history. The institute also owns the Kennedy Home in Hyannis Port. This home was given to the institute in 2012. Its goal is to teach about the U.S. government. It also aims to inspire future leaders to participate in public life. The institute works with other groups on "The Senate Project." This project hosts debates between Senators. It helps bring back the idea of working together in the Senate.
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Visiting the Kennedy Institute
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute officially opened its doors to the public on March 31, 2015. A special dedication ceremony was held the day before. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama attended this event.
Explore the Senate Chamber
One of the main attractions is the full-size copy of the U.S. Senate Chamber. This is the only exact reproduction of the Senate Chamber anywhere. It helps visitors imagine what it's like to be a Senator.
Interactive Digital Exhibits
The institute has many modern exhibits. These use technology to show the Senate's history. You can learn about "What is the Senate?" and "Traditions of the Senate." There are also exhibits about the "People of the Senate." These displays make learning about government fun and interactive.
Senator Kennedy's Office
Visitors can also explore a replica of Senator Kennedy's office. This office was in Washington, D.C.. You get a tablet to use as you walk around. The tablet shares stories about the items in the office. It helps you understand Senator Kennedy's work.
Public Programs and Events
The Kennedy Institute hosts many programs. These events bring people together to discuss important topics. They help citizens understand how government works.
Getting to the Point Series
The "Getting to the Point" series brings together different people. They discuss current issues facing the U.S. government. These events can be like town halls or lectures. They feature speakers from all different backgrounds. Past speakers include Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. The late Congressman John Lewis also spoke here.
Across the Aisle Series
The "Across the Aisle" series focuses on teamwork. It brings together government leaders from different political parties. They talk about how they work together on common goals. These discussions show how leaders can negotiate and find solutions. The series features members of Congress and other elected officials.
Oral History Project
The Edward M. Kennedy Oral History Project started in September 2015. It's a collection of interviews. These interviews are with people who knew Senator Kennedy. They include Senators, staff, and family members. The project helps document Senator Kennedy's long career. The institute uses this resource for speaker series. These talks highlight important issues before the U.S. Senate.
Educational Programs
The Kennedy Institute offers online programs. These programs help students from all over the country. They provide civic education. This means teaching students about their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
History of the Institute
Building and Opening
The groundbreaking ceremony for the institute was on April 8, 2011. This was when construction officially began. The institute was dedicated by President Barack Obama on March 30, 2015. Vice President Joe Biden and First Lady Michelle Obama were also there. The institute opened to the public the next day, March 31, 2015. Senator Edward M. Kennedy and his wife Vicki Reggie Kennedy helped create the idea for the institute.
Leadership of the Institute
Adam G. Hinds became the CEO of the Kennedy Institute in September 2022. He was a state senator in Massachusetts. He also worked as a negotiator for the United Nations. Before him, Dr. Jean F. MacCormack led the institute from 2014 to 2017. Andrew Tarsy was in charge from 2012 to 2014. Peter Meade led the institute from 2009 to 2012.
Kennedy Cape House Donation
In 2012, the Kennedy family donated their main house. This house is part of the historic Kennedy Compound in Hyannis Port. Senator Kennedy had promised his mother, Rose, to donate the house for charity. This donation helps the institute's mission.
