As the fall semester begins, 91ÌƲ®»¢ welcomes a new class of students ready to engage with ideas, explore identity and build community. One of the university’s signature efforts to support this journey is —a campus-wide initiative that advances the university’s enduring commitment to constructive dialogue and civil discourse, rooted in our core beliefs of free expression and institutional neutrality. It equips the 91ÌƲ®»¢ community with the tools and opportunities to engage in respectful, thoughtful conversations—across differences and on any topic.
The initiative is guided by a dynamic of more than 30 students who represent a wide range of backgrounds and viewpoints. These student leaders help shape Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢â€™s programming, facilitate campus discussions and contribute fresh, creative ideas to expand its reach and impact.
Webinar: Dialogue at 91ÌƲ®»¢
Incoming students and families are invited to attend Dialogue at 91ÌƲ®»¢: A Conversation with Campus Leaders and Students on Thursday, Aug. 7, 6–6:30 p.m. CT. This webinar offers an introduction to 91ÌƲ®»¢â€™s distinctive culture of open inquiry and commitment to dialogue and civil discourse. The audience will hear directly from campus leaders and students about how these values shape life at 91ÌƲ®»¢â€”and how Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢ programs will be part of the student experience from day one.
CommonVU Orientation: Introduction to Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢
As part of CommonVU Orientation, all incoming students will attend Introduction to Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢ with University Leadership on Monday, Aug. 18, at Langford Auditorium. This session will explore 91ÌƲ®»¢â€™s commitment to free expression and civil discourse—and how these values prepare students to contribute and lead in a pluralistic, global society. Incoming students will receive more information about how to attend the event as part of orientation materials.
New executive director named
This fall is also the beginning of a new chapter for Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢ with the appointment of Francesca Schuler as executive director. Schuler brings a wealth of cross-sector private and nonprofit leadership experience to the role.
About Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢
Launched in 2023, Dialogue 91ÌƲ®»¢ is a hub for programming and partnerships that promote constructive dialogue and civil discourse across campus and beyond. Through workshops, lectures, courses and student-led initiatives, the program supports 91ÌƲ®»¢â€™s broader commitment to free expression and open inquiry as essential elements of higher education and democratic society.
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