January 22, 2024
RALEIGH – The John Locke Foundation is honored to announce that Dr. Troy Kickler, Senior Fellow and Managing Director of the North Carolina History Curriculum Project, has been jointly appointed by the state’s Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to North Carolina’s prestigious “America’s Semiquincentennial Committee.” We are proud to say Dr. Kickler is the only jointly appointed member of the seven-person group, and as the committee’s noted historian with expertise regarding the American Revolution, we believe he will significantly contribute to the state’s preparations for The United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026.
“I am deeply honored to join America’s Semiquincentennial Committee,” said Dr. Kickler. “This is a unique opportunity to not only celebrate a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, but also to rekindle the spirit of liberty and democracy that has guided America for nearly 250 years.”
This appointment comes as the nation prepares to commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Semiquincentennial Committee, in accordance with state law, will study means for the state to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation and report the means and anticipated costs of the celebratory events to the General Assembly.
North Carolina’s committee will contribute to the national celebration of America’s founding, emphasizing our state’s pivotal role in the development of the United States. Dr. Kickler’s appointment is a testament to his extensive expertise in American history and his commitment to educational excellence. In 2019, he co-edited North Carolina’s Revolutionary Founders (UNC Press), he has served on state conservation and civic boards and on education advisory boards, and he currently teaches for Liberty University. Dr. Kickler will bring invaluable insights and leadership to the committee, and his role leading the North Carolina History Curriculum Project at Locke aligns perfectly with this appointment. Together with fellow members of the committee, we are confident Dr. Kickler will help to shape a celebration that is both educational and inspiring.