蘑菇短视频

Following a national search and competitive review process, three Western Carolina University faculty members have been selected for the inaugural cohort of the Deliberative Citizenship Network.

Vincent Russell, Grace Cheshire and Gabriel Wisnewski-Parks from WCU鈥檚 Communication Department will receive $10,000 to develop deliberative pedagogy initiatives at WCU. As part of the program, they will recruit eight to 10 student fellows who will participate in facilitator training and help organize deliberative programs on campus.

The initiative is designed to strengthen students鈥� ability to engage in meaningful dialogue, navigate complex issues and participate thoughtfully in civic life.

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to join my Communication colleagues Dr. Grace Cheshire and Mr. Gabriel Wisnewski-Parks in the inaugural cohort of the Deliberative Citizenship Network,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淭he DCN will provide a unique opportunity for our student fellows to develop deliberation and facilitation skills, such as active listening, providing evidence to support claims, communicating across difference, and conflict management.鈥�

As part of their participation, the team will host at least one public deliberation event, open to the campus community. The event will focus on a complex social issue and provide a structured environment for participants to explore differing perspectives and consider potential solutions.

鈥淥ur participation in the DCN will help us continue the tradition of excellent community engagement that the Communication Department and 蘑菇短视频are known for,鈥� Russell said.

The Deliberative Citizenship Network aims to equip students with practical skills that support civil discourse and collaborative problem-solving, while expanding opportunities for community engagement across participating institutions.