A Braver Campus – Leadership Education and Development

The Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement is partnering with Braver Angels, Bridge USA, and the American Council of Trustees and Alumni to host our very own A Braver Campus Series. This series includes education and programming focused on increasing understanding across difference. Opportunities will take place in a variety of formats including workshops, dialogues, 1:1 conversations, and debates.

A Braver Campus Fall 2024 Series

September 24th - A Braver Campus Dialogue: Bridging Mason’s Political Differences

Date: Tuesday, September 24th
Location: Merten Hall 1201
Time: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Description: This facilitated workshop will foster solution-oriented conversations in which participants discover that differing political viewpoints are not obstacles, but essential components in addressing our most controversial issues.
Registration via Mason 360: https://cglink.me/2d7/r2271521
Collaborative partnership with: Braver Angels, Bridge USA, and American Council of Trustees and Alumni

October 29th - A Braver Campus Debate: topic TBD based upon student poll

Date: Tuesday, October 29th
Location: Merten Hall 1201
Time: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Description: A Braver Angels debate is designed to be non-competitive, highly immersive and experiential for all participants. It is not performative or spectator-oriented — very different in tone and approach from televised debates that politicians engage in. Everyone in the room is invited to participate – whether they are students, faculty, staff, etc. The debate is moderated by an expertly trained Chair in a light parliamentary style that guides conversation and encourages deep listening and respect. The debate is highly participatory (everyone who attends can have a chance to share their view), is highly structured (no cross talk, no shout downs), is not a competition, etc. Participants address their comments to the chair (a moderator from the national non-profit, Braver Angels).
Registration via Mason 360: https://cglink.me/2d7/r2270792
Collaborative partnership with: Braver Angels, Bridge USA, and American Council of Trustees and Alumni

November 13th A Braver Campus Dialogue: topic TBD based upon student poll

Date: Wednesday, November 13th
Location: Merten Hall 1201
Time: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Description: This facilitated workshop will foster solution-oriented conversations in which participants discover that differing viewpoints are not obstacles, but essential components in addressing our most controversial issues.
Registration via Mason 360: https://cglink.me/2d7/r2270823
Collaborative partnership with: Braver Angels, Bridge USA, and American Council of Trustees and Alumni

Braver Angels, ACTA and BridgeUSA have forged an acclaimed program that teaches students to honor ideological diversity, foster civil discourse on college campuses, and cultivate student and faculty leaders to carry the movement forward.

ACTA brings myriad connections to college leadership and faculty, as well as project management and media expertise.

Braver Angels provides a proven debate methodology, programs, and workshops that teach students to engage with empathy and civility.

BridgeUSA has a wide network of chapters on college campuses, led by students dedicated to civic engagement.