Event
April 25, 2025
Unscripted Campus Conversations in the Classroom
These five schools are doubling down on their commitment to discourse by bringing into the classroom and curriculum. Learn about their curriculum initiatives below:
Trinity University
In a time of deep political and social divides, where does real conversation begin? At Trinity University, it starts with an essential but often overlooked skill: listening. Through The Conversation initiative, Trinity is taking bold steps to foster meaningful discussions on campus through workshops, debates, and classes. At the heart of this effort is a course titled ‘Listening,’ co-taught by President Vanessa Beasley, the Provost, and Associate Provost. In this class, students are learning to move beyond echo chambers, confront their own biases, and embrace the tension of nuanced discussions.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Professor Kevin Tan attended the Faculty Institute, where he was inspired by an idea from Professor John D. Draeger of Buffalo State University. This inspiration led him to develop a creative exercise designed to help his social work students think about how to support their younger clients in engaging in dialogue across differences. The solution: Use something that resonates with many kids—superheroes! He challenged his students to imagine what a “discourse superhero” might look like. Big ears for listening and a big heart were just a few of the ideas that emerged. Making dialogue accessible—for kids and those who work with them—is crucial to fostering productive conversations at any age.
DePauw University
As a sociologist, Aliyah Turner is no stranger to tough conversations—she’s “in the business of difficult dialogue.” But after attending the Faculty Institute, she’s doubling down on that work and bringing new insights back to DePauw University, where she’s leading professional development workshops for her colleagues. She shares what it means to “rip off the Band-Aid from day one,” discusses how faculty can push past the fear of getting it right, and talks about a breakthrough moment in her class that made it the best one she’s ever taught.
Ohio Wesleyan University
Ohio Wesleyan University is taking a bold step to ensure its community knows how to engage—not just argue. In 2024, the university announced a groundbreaking initiative: every student, faculty member, and staff member would have access to civil discourse training. But what does that look like in practice? Hear firsthand how a biology professor, student, and academic advisor are taking what they’ve learned and applying it to their studies, careers, and everyday interactions.
Georgetown University
How do you create authentic, real dialogue among students on college campuses—especially across differences? After attending the Faculty Institute, Georgetown University Professor Sherry Kao pivoted her classroom approach and saw a huge difference.