According to research through the National Issues Forums, Americans are deeply worried that the social fabric may be unraveling. People seem less and less able to work across differences to get anything done. Can higher education help address this problem, helping our society shift from ‘me’ to ‘we’?

Practice and participate in a conversation that explores this question, breaking out of the culture of argument and polarized debates that seems increasingly prevalent in our society. Deliberative practice promotes learning and problem solving, listening and understanding across lines of difference, and can lead to collective action. During this session, we will explore the question: How Should Higher Education Help Us Create the Society We Want? This is an experience-based training for moderating deliberative dialogues. By participating in this session, you will identify local priorities and opportunities for collaboration. Leave with new connections and ideas for action!