Intellectual Takeout is a project of Charlemagne Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization dedicated to defending and advancing the philosophical and spiritual foundations of Western Civilization.

Mission and Vision

We provide a platform for rational discourse on all aspects of culture, inspiring action that leads to the restoration of a healthy and vibrant America. We aim to aid the restoration of faith, family, and community.

Our Leadership

Devin Foley, CEO – After a short time away from the organization, Devin Foley is once again CEO of Intellectual Takeout. Growing up in rural San Diego, he aimed to be a pilot or go into politics — his career reflects the latter path, though many a day he wishes he was in the air. Foley graduated from Hillsdale College in 2001 and shortly after married his wife, Nicole, of nearly 25 years. Together they have seven children and live in Stillwater, Minnesota.

In 2001, Foley joined Center of the American Experiment, a conservative, Minnesota-based think tank. He quickly rose in the institution and became the director of development. Additionally, he gained experience during those years working with Governor Tim Pawlenty and Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer. In 2009, he had the opportunity to co-found Intellectual Takeout as a stand-alone organization and led Intellectual Takeout as its president until 2022 when board changes caused him to take a sabbatical from the organization. In 2025, the board of directors brought Foley back as CEO and he looks forward to the next chapter of this culture-changing institution.

Annie Holmquist, Editor in Chief – Annie Holmquist is back as the editor-in-chief for Intellectual Takeout! She launched her writing and editing career with the institution in 2009 as an intern and eventually became the editor-in-chief of the digital publication. Beloved for her writing, wit, and wisdom, Intellectual Takeout’s board of directors and CEO were thrilled to bring her back into her leadership position in 2025. Annie’s writing may be found at The Epoch Times, American Essence Magazine, 1819 News, Alpha News, Opportunity for All Kids, Foundation for Economic Education, and her Substack, Annie’s Attic.

Core Beliefs

1. We believe that faith, family, and community are the building blocks for restoration of culture.
2. We believe in independent thought and the importance of discussing ideas central to Western Civilization.
3. We believe that culture drives action, and we strive to impact the culture through education.
4. We believe in thoughtful content on a wide range of cultural issues that often challenge the orthodoxies of our time and cause readers to think deeply about important issues.
5. We strive to avoid heated, emotional debates that fail to enlighten and drive people apart.
6. We believe that our writers and editors do not have all the answers; we are not ideologues.

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