Buckley’s Centennial


The founder and architect of the conservative movement, William F. Buckley Jr., had a paradigm-shifting influence on American politics and culture. As the founder of National Review, host of Firing Line, writer of a weekly syndicated column, author of some 50 books, and frequent guest lecturer on college campuses and policy circles, Bill Buckley’s impact was so notable that he became a household name and part of popular culture. Buckley was a central figure in the movement he founded throughout the latter half of the 20th Century, acting as a voice for—and persuasive defender of—conservative principles. As someone always looking to nurture the next generation, he was directly involved in the founding of several organizations that are still doing important work today to advance the cause of individual liberty. We ardently believe that Bill Buckley can continue to inspire today’s generation and future ones to embrace conservative principles and become “happy warriors” for the defense of American values and traditions.

In recognition of William F. Buckley Jr.’s 100th birthday in 2025, NRI will launch and execute the William F. Buckley Jr. Centennial Campaign—“WFB100”—which will include a series of special events and educational projects, publications, and a special issue of National Review that honor and preserve Bill Buckley’s legacy for posterity and introduce him to new audiences.

Events
Ideas Summit in Washington DC
William F. Buckley Jr. Prize Dinner
• Marquee Partnership Events with legacy organizations having a WFB connection
• NRI Partnership Events

Student Outreach
• Student attendance at NRI events
• Student Conferences
• Buckley Legacy Project On Campus Events

Commemorative Materials & Programs
• Young Talent Fund
Knight Errant: Essays on the Enduring Inspiration of William F. Buckley Jr. book of inspiring essays
• Special commemorative issue of National Review

PARTNER WITH US
By partnering with NRI, you will help expand awareness of Bill Buckley, his lasting legacy, and the key issues from a principled conservative perspective. We invite you to join us this year for this unique opportunity to solidify Bill’s legacy as the founder and architect of the modern conservative movement, while inspiring future generations to uphold American values and traditions.

For more information on how to partner with NRI, contact Stephanie Cates at stephanie@nrinsitute.org or (480) 286-2886.