Elon University asks: Is America facing a slow decline toward its darkest days? Or is there a bright dawn ahead as our nation returns to its founding values and principles?

Five distinguished panelists confronted these daunting questions during Elon University's Convocation for Honors on April 7, 2011. Moderated by NBC Nightly News anchor and Elon parent Brian Williams, the discussion inspired students to consider their roles in overcoming major issues facing America: rising national debt, political gridlock, complex energy and environmental problems, religious intolerance and an ailing educational system. Join the conversation! Please visit the links below and leave your comments and ideas on each topic, using the form at the bottom of each page.

• Video of the full convocation
• Video of Elon students expressing their hopes for the future
• Download a book with expanded remarks by the panelists (PDF)

Brian Williams
Moderator

Anchor and managing editor, NBCNightly News

Is the rapidly evolving use of technology and social media causing a cultural shift in society?

David Gergen

CNN senior political analyst; former presidential adviser; director, Harvard University Center for Public Leadership

How can we move beyond partisan gridlock and find the will to solve our nation's most pressing problems?

David Walker

President/CEO Comeback America Initiative; former U.S. Comptroller General

How can we promote fiscal responsibility by government and not mortgage our children's and grandchildren's future?

Shirley Ann Jackson

President, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; former chair, Nuclear Regulatory Commission

What investments in science and technology must we make to show economic leadership, environmental stewardship and greater energy independence?

Eboo Patel

President, Interfaith Youth Core; author and journalist

How can we promote reconciliation and understanding in an era of religious extremism that often fuels strife around the world?

David Levin

Co-founder, Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP charter schools)

What are the most effective measures we can take to improve the quality of K-12 public education in an era of declining government support and changing demographics?