The Purple Assembly in Traverse City

The Purple Assembly exists to bring people together across the political spectrum, so we were excited to offer our community a civil discourse training led by Dr. Lisa Perhamus, Director of GVSU’s Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse. Lisa is a skilled and warm facilitator. She made a room full of people, many of them strangers holding different views, feel comfortable enough to engage honestly and respectfully. The training was practical and interactive rather than a lecture, and participants left with concrete tools for listening, asking questions, and staying in hard conversations. We would recommend this training to any organization that wants to help its community disagree well and still find common ground.

- Kathy Grinsteiner,
Purple Assembly, Traverse City, MI

GV HEALTH PROFESSIONS STUDENTS IN TRAVERSE CITY

"It's rare to bring a group of people together and have them genuinely lean into uncomfortable conversations, but Dr. Perhamus and Dr. Cox created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere that engagement felt natural. The conversations they led us through were thoughtful, honest, and helped participants practice engaging with each other instead of simply talking at each other. For anyone who feels exhausted by polarization or wonders if meaningful conversation across differences is possible anymore, this workshop offers the hopeful answer of yes. Highly recommended for community groups, organizations, or anyone who simply wants to be a better listener and a more thoughtful voice in the world."

~ Sam Purifoy

Physician Assistant Student

"I appreciated Dr. Perhamus & Dr. Cox taking time to travel up & speak with us at GVSU’s satellite campus in TC.  Through interactive activities, the facilitators helped our group to focus on collaboration on tough issues.  They brought together a diverse group of staff, students, & future students to teach us to be curious without being judgmental; to be constructive without tearing one another down for our beliefs or opinions.  It was enlightening."

~ Katie Perez

Physician Assistant Student

Fremont Area Community Foundation

Our recent Civil Discourse training helped me think differently about how I communicate, especially when things get tense. I learned practical ways to engage productively with others—even if we disagree –  and appreciated the advice to set boundaries and guidelines. The breakout conversations were a highlight for me. What has stuck with me most is how important it is to stay curious, listen carefully, and show empathy; these are good tools for connecting with people and increasing mutual understanding.

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-Lisa Bougher

Payroll and Benefits Manager

Fremont Area Community Foundation