Improve campus culture

Citizen Discourse helps college campuses reduce hate and hostile incidents by fostering a campus of respect. 

College campuses are diverse and dynamic institutions where students come from various backgrounds and hold different perspectives. This diversity can lead to a lack of understanding for opposing viewpoints, which may result in polarization, hostility, hate, and an unhealthy campus climate. 

To address this, it’s essential for university leadership to facilitate respectful, open, and constructive dialogue that fosters understanding and trust. It is equally essential for students to be provided space and resources to practice the skills necessary for productive dialogue.

The LBJ School of Public Affairs brought Citizen Discourse into our orientation because we wanted to take proactive steps to reduce polarization, increase respect and compassion on campus, and build a stronger and more resilient community. The students were guided through sessions that helped them feel connected to the LBJ community, offered practical skills for navigating difficult discussions, and invited them to examine their own roles as global citizens. This is an effective and much needed training that will benefit students, staff, and faculty. For fellow higher education administrators seeking a resource designed to foster inclusive culture, I highly recommend the Citizen Discourse program.

Dr. Victoria DeFrancesco Soto

Former Asst Dean, of Civic Engagement & External Affairs
The University of Texas at Austin,
LBJ School of Public Affairs

Sign up for a *free* 30-minute Discovery Session to discuss challenges and opportunities for a more inclusive and safe campus.

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