To our campus community:
In January 2024, President Kaler asked me to lead an initiative to promote civil discourse at ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½. It was a difficult time, when war in the Middle East and other events were causing tremendous pain and heartbreak. Now, we are all aware of the continuing conflicts and tragedies in the world. For this reason, it is as important as ever for us to create a learning environment where all of us are free to express our views, ask difficult questions and engage in vigorous debate. At the same time, we must remain open to diverse perspectives and ensure that no member of our community feels devalued or unwelcome.
Last February, I our Civil Discourse Advisory Group with identifying the essential civil discourse skills that all members of our campus community should seek to master. In response, the advisory group developed , and my office sponsored a series of programs, including the Hard Conversations and Critical Conversations series, to advance this work. On this page you will find these skills alongside a rich array of programs, events, and resources from offices and centers throughout our campus, all designed to enhance civility, wellness and connection.
Whether it is listening to experts discuss the challenging issues of our time in the Critical Conversations series, practicing your civil discourse skills in an informal setting as part of our Hard Conversations program, taking the time to learn why diversity matters in our Power of Diversity Lecture Series, or taking care of yourself during this stressful time by attending a support workshop, I encourage you to take advantage of the programs and opportunities this fall and spring offered throughout our campus.
Together we can continue to make ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ an exemplar of open-mindedness, active listening, and critical thinking. I hope you will explore the activities featured on this page and join me in striving to become an even stronger community as we learn from each other, and especially from those who may have different perspectives from our own.
Sincerely,
Joy K. Ward
Provost and Executive Vice President