Patel’s influence has gained significant traction this year, marked by his election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and recognition from the George W. Bush Institute for his advocacy on cross-difference collaboration. His work centers on the belief that pluralism is essential to the health of American democracy, a theme he explores in his writing and lectures.

Three of his primary collaborators in the pluralism movement also earned spots on this year’s NPT list: Michael Murray of the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, YMCA of the USA CEO Suzanne McCormick, and Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford. Through the Team Up Project, McCormick and Reckford are integrating pluralism into their respective national networks. These leaders will be formally honored at the NPT Power & Influence Top 50 Gala in Washington, D.C., this September.