Civil discourse is “robust, honest, frank and constructive dialogue and deliberation that seeks to advance the public interest” (Brosseau, 2011). It is an exchange of ideas that simultaneously:

Holds individuals accountable for their voice (how we talk);
Remains curious about other people’s perspectives (how we hear),
Respects multiple realities (how we honor personhood).

Civil discourse is not polite conversation, but, rather, intentional dialogue that builds understanding across difference. As Margaret Wheatley states, “We don’t have to let go of what we believe, but we do need to be curious about what someone else believes” (2009).

As a gift from Shelley E. Padnos and Carol Sarosik, the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse in the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies will promote engagement with the concepts and tools of civil discourse. Through the initiatives of this program, Grand Valley hopes to strengthen the commitment to informed, peace-based, and respectful dialogue across the campus community and the neighboring areas of West Michigan.

Deadline: Monday March 16th, 2026 by 5:00pm

Today’s students will graduate into an increasingly pluralistic local, national, and international environment in which it will be impossible to insulate oneself from the complex issues facing humanity and from individuals who have different yet deeply held beliefs about these issues. Responding to the complex issues of the twenty-first century in a way that promotes peace, mutual understanding, and respect for human dignity requires citizens and leaders who are skilled in listening closely, understanding and appreciating human differences, and promoting rational and respectful discourse.

The purpose of the Padnos/Sarosik Civil Discourse Faculty Fellow is to prepare Grand Valley students to take their place as leaders in promoting civil discourse in West Michigan and beyond and to serve as catalysts for vital discussions and debates while they are students. A goal of the Center is to familiarize students with various tools that will help them analyze and understand the political, cultural, and personal motives and assumptions behind people’s adherence to particular opinions and to teach the skills that will enable students to bring divergent views to the table with reasoning and respect.

View additional details and apply below

APPLY HERE

Sharing our Perspectives and Experiences

At this moment in our country and world, change is happening at a rapid pace. Some are excited by what they see as positive movement while others struggle with fear and anger over changes they see in negative terms. And yet, we live and work together on a shared campus. What does this mean for our campus community? What does this mean for you?

This Campus Conversation offers a space for the campus community to talk collectively about how people are doing. Our goal is to increase awareness, understanding, and mutual support on campus. Conversation can strengthen community.

The Conversation will be facilitated by the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse and Mediation Services.

Join us! February 4th, 6:30PM -8:00PM, Pere Marquette Room Kirkhof Center 2204

This Event is INT 100/201 Approved!

Please Register for the event.

Co-Sponsors: Padnos/Sarosik Ctr. for Civil Discourse, Geography & Sustainable Planning Dept., Political Science Dept., Padnos International Ctr., Student Senate, GVSU Votes!, Asian Faculty & Staff Assoc., Black Faculty & Staff Assoc., Lakers Unidos!, Women’s Commission, LGBTQ+ Faculty & Staff Assoc., Inclusion & Equity

Registration Is required. Questions? Contact Lisa Perhamus, [email protected] (616) 331-6736

EVENT REGISTRATION