Civil dialogue experts from across the country gathered at The Catholic University of America to discuss how faith-based colleges and universities can foster conversation rather than polarization. This public session, held on June 8 in Heritage Hall, was part of the third annual convening of the American Council on Education’s Commission on Faith-Based Colleges and Universities.
University President Peter Kilpatrick, who is a member of the commission’s executive committee, welcomed attendees and cued up the afternoon’s agenda that explored the theme: "Learning to Disagree Better—What Faith-Based Colleges and Universities Can Bring to the National Dialogue."
“Dialogue does not mean having or pretending to have the same viewpoints as everyone else,” said President Kilpatrick, noting that theological differences among his fellow panelists are not, and should not be, barriers to friendship and collaboration. “Faith-based colleges and universities have so much to offer in this current moment in our nation.”
President Kilpatrick explained that Catholic University’s Campus Ministry, classroom commitment to pursuing the truth in charity, and culture of service all contribute to a positive campus environment by following the example of Jesus Christ.
“I think what's working on our campus is that our students are willingly and enthusiastically engaging in their time together in prayer,” said Kilpatrick. “They are working together, they are in a small Christian communities, they are discussing the permanent things, they are in adoration. They are doing the things of the Spirit.”
Keynote speaker Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox, who gained worldwide attention for his bipartisan “Disagree Better” civility campaign with his Democrat opponent when he ran for office, said faith-informed campuses are uniquely positioned to shape the hearts and minds to find a way forward in a divisive culture.
“I believe the answer to the problems that are ailing our country is right here in this room today,” said Gov. Cox, explaining that religious institutions have a higher calling to promote the “pursuit of knowledge, the shaping of character, and the cultivation of virtue.”
The ACE Commission on Faith-Based Colleges and Universities was established in 2024 to foster cross-institutional collaboration for the benefit of all of higher education. The annual conference brings key leaders together to address the most pressing challenges on college campuses nationwide.
“Engaging across differences is more important than ever, and faith-based colleges and universities play a vital role in setting a standard for the nation,” said ACE President Ted Mitchell. “We admire the commitment these institutions demonstrate by developing the moral character of their students and faculty.”
