In this era of increasing polarization, it is critical that universities continue to emphasize and teach the enduring values of civic engagement, civility, integrity, and transparency. These principles are fundamental to a vibrant democracy and are at the heart of the George Washington University's mission to educate more informed and considerate citizen leaders.

- Ellen Granberg
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Activation Plan

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Below is an overview of some campus activities:

The George Washington University’s “Democracy is in our DNA” initiative seeks to strengthen the GW community through civic engagement and dynamic experiences that inspire curiosity and exploration. Our university’s commitment is to cultivate a campus environment where each member can engage with opportunities and programs that foster student development, well-being, and belonging at GW and beyond.

GW’s Honey W. Nashman Center supports the diverse ways GW faculty and students contribute to the community, including direct service; community engagement through courses, practica, or research that create a public benefit; policy and governance; philanthropy; social innovation; and community organizing and activism.

In April 2024, the university launched the GDub Elections Hub. This online hub serves as a nexus for all things related to Election 2024 at GW, including expert analysis and insight, breaking news and scholarship related to the election, special events for alumni and students, and more.

Throughout 2024, the university’s Division of Student Affairs is bringing in experts to train a select group of student leaders and staff on facilitating listening circles and fostering difficult dialogues across differences. This training will be expanded to include a larger group of students as the academic year progresses.

GW’s Office for Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement (ODECE) hosts a weekly dinner series called Breaking Bread, inviting students to come together across differences over a warm meal from a local restaurant to engage in discussions on identity and social issues.

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Ellen Granberg
President, George Washington University
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Below is an overview of some campus activities:

The George Washington University’s “Democracy is in our DNA” initiative seeks to strengthen the GW community through civic engagement and dynamic experiences that inspire curiosity and exploration. Our university’s commitment is to cultivate a campus environment where each member can engage with opportunities and programs that foster student development, well-being, and belonging at GW and beyond.

GW’s Honey W. Nashman Center supports the diverse ways GW faculty and students contribute to the community, including direct service; community engagement through courses, practica, or research that create a public benefit; policy and governance; philanthropy; social innovation; and community organizing and activism.

In April 2024, the university launched the GDub Elections Hub. This online hub serves as a nexus for all things related to Election 2024 at GW, including expert analysis and insight, breaking news and scholarship related to the election, special events for alumni and students, and more.

Throughout 2024, the university’s Division of Student Affairs is bringing in experts to train a select group of student leaders and staff on facilitating listening circles and fostering difficult dialogues across differences. This training will be expanded to include a larger group of students as the academic year progresses.

GW’s Office for Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement (ODECE) hosts a weekly dinner series called Breaking Bread, inviting students to come together across differences over a warm meal from a local restaurant to engage in discussions on identity and social issues.

In this era of increasing polarization, it is critical that universities continue to emphasize and teach the enduring values of civic engagement, civility, integrity, and transparency. These principles are fundamental to a vibrant democracy and are at the heart of the George Washington University's mission to educate more informed and considerate citizen leaders.

- Ellen Granberg