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.

Campus Conversation Series Navigating Eco-Grief: Critical Hope for a Better Future

How can we feel hopeful about issues of environmental sustainability at a time when local, national, and global communities are facing climate collapse? Impacts of climate change can feel overwhelming, creating a sense of anxiety, depression, and sense of hopelessness. Yet the need to translate climate data into climate action is more pressing than ever.

This Campus Conversation offers a space for the campus community to talk collectively about ways to navigate eco-grief, the emotional distress around the impacts of climate change. A goal of this conversation is to increase awareness, mutual understanding, and connections for sustaining critical hope. Conversations can strengthen community.

The Conversation will be facilitated by the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse and Environmental Sustainability (ENS) students.

INT 100/201 APPROVED

March 31, 2026

6:00PM -7:30PM

Pere Marquette Room Kirkhof Center 2204

Light refreshments provided!

Questions?

Contact Lisa Perhamus [email protected]

(616) 331-6736