CSM to host a series of inclusive campus community dialogues
OMAHA, NEB. – College of Saint Mary is set to host several dialogues in the coming weeks as part of its “Starting Points” series designed to encourage inclusive campus conversations. The events will allow community members to collectively explore contemporary topics, examine critical viewpoints, and discuss important issues, all within a welcoming environment.
“The goal is to provide opportunities for people to experience genuine and honest conversations on topics that are important in today’s society,” says Alexis Sherman, director, office of diversity and inclusion. “Through active inquiry and exploration of openness, we can foster a climate of civil discussion and appreciation for human dignity.”
“Culture Vulture: Complexities in Cultural Appropriation and the Arts” will take place at 6 p.m. Feb. 20 at Gallery 1516 in Omaha. The event is designed to help participants experience a genuine and honest dialogue that critically examines cultural appropriation and creative expression in the arts. This discussion will center around the provocative nature of art in all forms and will feature nationally renowned artist Therman Statom.
On Feb. 28, the Dialogue series will continue with “Women, Leadership and the Catholic Church”. Featuring Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, President of College of Saint Mary and Dr. Julia Feder, assistant professor at Creighton University, the session will examine the evolving role of women in the Catholic Church. It will be followed by “Sexual Orientation and the Catholic Church” on March 1. This event will feature Sister Laura Reicks, RSM, who is President of Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community and Dr. Todd Salzman, professor at Creighton University. Both events will be held in CSM’s Gross Auditorium at 4 p.m., respectively.
Each experience will focus on open discussion with the community and will give participants a chance to take in new perspectives within a welcoming setting. Centered around inclusivity, CSM’s Dialogues are designed to create avenues to critical thinking and encourage new conversations.
“These kinds of thought provoking conversations can spark others to explore topics they wouldn’t otherwise and begin their own dialogues,” says Sherman.
In recent weeks, the university has hosted several events centered around key issues within our society today. These have included guest speaker Sister Helen Prejean, author of “Dead Man Walking”, the premiere of a locally produced DACA documentary, and DACA: Voices from the CSM Community art exhibit which displayed portraits and personal stories of current DACA students.
Click here for a full schedule of events and more on CSM’s inclusive campus opportunities.
