Reclaiming Civil Society Through Dialogue

UPDATE (2-11-19) – This year’s conference has been canceled. Look for more information in the future about upcoming civic engagement events.

Bryn Dotson, assistant editor

 In 2016, the country was plagued by extreme political division. The presidential election resulted in a severe crack in the country’s unity. In 2017, while the immediate aftermath of the election had subsided, the country was left with a visible scar. PVCC’s annual Civic Leadership Conference has been designed to help mend those wounds and create a safe, respectful space to educate and engage students on politics. Also to emphasize the importance of getting involved and having their voices heard.

This year’s event, which is specifically focused on the students reclaiming students’ civil society, is especially important.

“Gen-Z and millennials are going to rule the world,” said Assistant Professor of Political Science Connie Jorgensen. In this political climate,  the baby boomers are handing off the political baton to the younger generations; being educated on issues is critical for survival.

Jorgensen highlighted the significance of the conference, saying that “it can be a helpful way to solve bad political situations” and “wicked problems.” During the event, there will be many opportunities for students to use their voices, including a Deliberative Dialogue session. Jorgensen explained that “students facilitate dialogues” that allow them to express their thoughts and positions on  specific topics.

She strongly encourages students to make an appearance: “Students who have attended one or more of these events have only given us positive feedback.”

There are five different panels throughout the event that cover an array of topics. These panels include debates on the electoral college, discussing if media is a foe rather than a friend, social activism, and more. Throughout the day, there will be question and answer sessions for students to continuously engage in.

The conference will be held in the Bolick Student Center in the Main Building on Feb. 16 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The registration is free of charge and opens next week. The school will offer breakfast and lunch.

Jorgensen stresses that students who are interested in attending should sign up early, as there are only 100 spots available.

For more information, keep an eye out for the updated website page for 2019’s conference. Questions or concerns? Contact Jorgensen at cjorgensen@pvcc.edu.

“Register and tell your friends to come,” said Jorgensen.

Registration is open until 5 p.m on Feb. 14. Find out more here: https://www.pvcc.edu/clc.