A team from WashU will join colleagues from approximately 25 colleges and universities July 13–18 at Johns Hopkins University’s Washington, D.C., campus for a convening hosted by The Nantucket Project.
The program brings together higher education professionals committed to fostering dialogue, free inquiry and open discourse in campus communities.
Participants will engage with peers from a variety of institutions, disciplines and perspectives to explore approaches for navigating complex issues and creating learning environments grounded in curiosity, respect and intellectual engagement.
“WashU’s participation reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to constructive dialogue and meaningful engagement across differences,” said Mark Kamimura-Jiménez, PhD, associate vice chancellor for Student Success. “This opportunity allows us to learn from colleagues across the country, share promising practices and strengthen our efforts to build a campus culture where people can engage difficult conversations thoughtfully and productively.”
Insights gained through the weeklong program will help strengthen Dialogue Across Difference (DxD), WashU’s initiative designed to promote critical thinking, free speech and civil discourse through courses, workshops and campus programming.
“Every student has a voice that matters, and DxD invites students from all backgrounds and viewpoints to bring their experiences, perspectives and questions to the conversation,” said Vice Chancellor for Student Success Anna Gonzalez. “Through DxD, we are creating spaces where differences can be explored thoughtfully, where understanding can grow and where students can practice the skills that support both constructive engagement and free speech in a vibrant academic community.”
WashU attendees include Jacob Chacko, executive director of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion; The Reverend Cara Rockhill, director for the Office of Religious, Spiritual, and Ethical Life; and students Henry Wild, Omar Soltan, Lauren Slovin, Orlee Bracha and Asher Lubin.
Hosted by The Nantucket Project, the gathering will focus on dialogue, pluralism and the creation of campus environments that support open exchange and learning across diverse viewpoints.