Alyssa Henke ’26
Hello! I am Alyssa Henke, a junior political science & mathematics double major on the pre-law track here at Davidson. Outside of academics, I am passionate about promoting disability justice and public education reform. I am originally from the Illinois/Wisconsin border, so I often feel like I’m melting under the North Carolina sun. On campus, I am involved in CPE, Pre-Law Society, DDA, and Warner Hall!
Deliberative conversation has become a staple in my life as I navigate personal relationships with friends and family with severely differing political ideologies. Learning to listen, defend your stance, and disagree respectfully are all essential skills to maintaining our democracy. DCI is a stepping stone towards a more deliberative future and I am beyond excited to help with this initiative!
Ben Files ’25
Hi, I’m Ben Files, a current senior at Davidson studying Political Science. I love all things sports, hence my involvement in and enthusiasm for club soccer here on campus. In my free time, I enjoy watching documentaries, hiking, and learning about geography and medieval history.
I’m from the DC area, so politics have surrounded me my whole life. In high school, I worked on a project for my newspaper that attempted to highlight the diversity of political opinions held by our student body. To our editorial board’s surprise, our social media post showcasing a Republican student was met with immense negativity and hateful comments; I was frustrated at this bias. The DCI at Davidson provides a fantastic opportunity to tackle this exact problem as it provides a space for healthy, meaningful discourse on challenging subjects. As a DCI fellow, I hope to play a role in bringing our community members closer together despite ideological differences – an opportunity I wish I had back in high school.
TBC Bossio Charles Takougnadi ’27
Hi! I am a sophomore at Davidson College with a double major in Biology and Computer Science. Besides being a DCI fellow, I am a Chidsey fellow, a member of Davidson Club Soccer, and fully committed to DIA and DASA organizations. I am a fan of the football (soccer) league games without a supporting team. I play games, exercise, and watch anime during my free time.
Community, opportunity, and communication are they key factors that brought me to DCI. Today’s world is extremely polarized in almost every aspect. Dialogue is lacking in various parts of the world. I see DCI as an opportunity to communicate, learn, teach, argue, and cultivate worldwide values in a safe, trustworthy, and diverse Community. DCI me in achieving great skills and become a better listener and a better communicator for life.
Casey Scheiner ’28
Hi! I’m Casey Scheiner, a freshman from the San Francisco Bay Area looking to study political science and data science. Aside from DCI, on campus you can probably find me enjoying time with Moot Court, the College Crisis Initiative, Reformed University Fellowship, or a number of recreational sports (pickleball being my personal favorite).
I’m thrilled to be a part of DCI because I believe staunchly in the importance of our democracy and recognize that the health of said democracy is dependent on citizens who are willing to thoughtfully, respectfully, and bravely discuss the biggest issues in our society. I want to be a part of that cause with DCI, both by learning how to be a strong deliberator and by empowering others to have those conversations.
Cavan Klein ’27
Hi! I’m Cavan Klein, a sophomore here at Davidson studying Political Science and Russian Studies. I currently aspire to do diplomatic work for the U.S. in Central Asia. In my free time, I love to stay active, whether it be training for triathlons, going for hikes, or playing various sports with my friends!
I joined the DCI because it is the perfect way to understand other perspectives while placing heavy emphasis on respect and cooperation. Growing up experiencing mostly polarizing conversations, I know firsthand how difficult it can be for everyone to feel heard. My time at Davidson has opened my eyes to how much good constructive conversation can do. The DCI is the perfect organization to spread this feeling of inclusivity and mutual understanding, and I am excited to do my part.
Charlotte Juge ’27
Hi! My name is Charlotte Juge, and I’m a sophomore from Orange County, California. I am an intended Educational Studies and Public Policy double major interested in international education and education policy. On campus, I am involved in theater, admissions, and C2i while also working as a fellow for Teach for America. In my spare time, I love watching NCIS, going to see live theater, and cooking.
From a young age, I was deeply aware of the complexities in the world and the varied thought processes people bring to it. My upbringing instilled in me a commitment to critical thinking and open dialogue, which I further cultivated in high school by leading a biweekly open forum dedicated to discussing pressing and often contentious topics. In an era where meaningful discourse is increasingly rare, I am more determined than ever to develop the skills needed to facilitate these vital conversations as a DCI fellow. My passion for fostering understanding through dialogue is not just an interest but a lifelong commitment.
Fatima Mukaka ’28
Hi, I am Fatima Mukasa, a freshman from Uganda and Kenya. I am interested in studying Biology and PPE. I am UWC alumn and had the chance to live in Costa Rica. I am part of Davidson Chorale, and love to experience every facet of life I can.
I came from a community where fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to learn and understand perspectives vastly different from their own, and that was something I treasured. Being a part of the DCI allows me to continue this community and learn how to share perspectives ‘right’ As an international student I’m excited to diversify both mine and others’ minds. I believe this skill is the foundation to creating a more informed and empathetic society.
Garratt Rothburg ’27
Hi! I am a sophomore from Brooklyn, NY planning to major in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). At Davidson, I am involved in the Center for Political Engagement, the Davidson Investment and Finance Association, and the Hurt Hub. In my free time, I enjoy playing and watching basketball, trying new foods, and biking. I am excited to play a role in the DCI’s important work of bringing together people from different backgrounds and fostering civil discourse.
As an ardent political observer, I am deeply concerned about the rise in polarization and distrust, and it is our civic duty to engage in constructive dialogue on political issues to combat it. The deliberation work of the DCI is crucially important this year in the contentious political environment surrounding the 2024 presidential election. I hope that my work as a Fellow will provide me with the tools I need to be a leader in advancing the values of empathy, mutual understanding, and unity.
Grace Zagoria ’27
Hey! My name is Grace Zagoria and I’m in my second year here at Davidson College. I’m originally from the East Village in Manhattan, and before Davidson I attended the Bronx High School of Science. I’m planning to study Economics and Political Science, but I also have a profound interest in foreign languages – I speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, and I am working on learning German right now as well! Along with working as a DCI fellow, I am also a pole vaulter on the Women’s Track and Field team, a Spanish tutor, a representative on the Student Athlete Advisory Council, and a Student Employee at Davidson Outdoors. In my free time I love going hiking, cooking, and listening to Built to Spill, Zach Bryan, and Neil Young!
Coming from New York City, I joined DCI last year in order to get exposed to new political perspectives and thought processes that weren’t as commonly expressed where I grew up. I found my two D-Teams to be great spaces to discuss topical issues and ask questions of individuals with differing views. I was also really impressed by my facilitators, Declan and Brody, who were able to navigate complicated group dynamics and complex political themes with ease. After my formative experiences as a participant in DCI, I’m really looking forward to fostering spaces on campus where community members can voice their political opinions and learn more about others’ perspectives.
Isabella Neri ’27
Hello! My name is Isabella Neri. I am from Charlotte, NC, but I currently reside in Middle Tennessee! I am a sophomore thinking of majoring in Political Science or Sociology. When I am not working with DCI or doing schoolwork, I enjoy swimming and watching films.
I was drawn to the DCI through my participation in their deliberative D-Teams. This experience helped me better understand how to connect with others, view perspectives that are different from my own, and debate polarizing topics that would otherwise not be discussed. Additionally, I feel that the DCI creates a safe space that will help counter problems, such as heavy polarization, that are rooted in our society. Thus helping our society become one in which there is open and respectful discourse.
Izzy Cevallos ’27
Hi! I am Izzy and I am a sophomore from Boston, Massachusetts. I am an intended Political Science major and Latin American Studies minor. On campus I am a member of Davidson OLAS, as well as the Jewish Student Union. I am also a member of Warner Hall Eating House! I love to try new things, so in my free time you will find my friends and I trying different escape rooms in and around Davidson!
I joined the DCI because I have always been passionate about issues that I find important, and I deeply admire the platform that DCI gives to contentious topics. Encouraging multiple perspectives and respectfully challenging ideas are two aspects of discussions that are so important but rarely happen, which is why I believe so strongly in the DCI’s mission.
Jane McNeill ’28
Hi! I’m Jane McNeill, a freshman at Davidson from Raleigh, North Carolina. I’m interested in studying Physics as I appreciate understanding why things happen and exploring the world around me. Outside of class I enjoy running, reading, and trying new things!
I joined the DCI because of my experience as a trained student facilitator in a similar program at my high school. The program taught me the value of recognizing shared commonalities and seeing the humanity in people with different beliefs. I appreciate the space deliberation holds for challenging conversations and discourse that may otherwise not occur. Deliberation encourages participants to examine their own beliefs and gather a deeper understanding of complex issues.
Liam Mann ’27
Hi, I’m Liam Mann, an intended economics major and data science minor from Raleigh, North Carolina. I am involved with club soccer, Episcopal Student Fellowship, and the Davidson Investment and Finance Association. I enjoy golfing, learning about geography, and listening to indie music in my spare time.
I was motivated to join DCI because it fills the void of uncomfortable political conversation that a lot of people, myself included, aren’t accustomed to. The modern political sphere is focused on an us vs. them mentality, which DCI addresses by bring people of different ideologies together to address. I am excited for the opportunity to challenge my own beliefs and find common ground with people on different sides of the political spectrum.
Lily Ogawa ’28
Hi! My name is Lily and I’m an international student from Japan, intending to major in economics or political science. I have lived in California and Hong Kong before, where I had the opportunity to talk to people from diverse backgrounds. Outside of school, I love to play badminton with my friends and listen to music!
I joined DCI to help create meaningful discourse at the Davidson campus and community about polarizing issues that are often not discussed. Especially as this is an election year, it is more important than ever to have deliberation, and I look forward to helping facilitate them!
Luna Noguchi ’25
Hi! My name is Luna, and I am a senior from Rutherford, New Jersey. I am a Political Science major and Communication Studies minor with an interest in political consulting and law. On campus, I am a co-service chair for Warner Hall Eating House, a peer communications consultant in the Speaking Center, a dancer and public relations chair for Gamut Dance Company, and a member of Pre-Law Society. I enjoy hiking, reading, and taking open dance classes.
Two summers ago, I did the Davidson in Washington program, where I participated in a night course investigating the health of American Democracy. I learned about the role biases and un-checked assumptions play in polarizing our politics and the dangers they pose to our democratic system. I was drawn to the DCI because it offers a really rare experience to facilitate productive political deliberation and bridge differences in opinion during a really sensitive time in our political history.
Madeline Kleiner ’28
Hi! My name is Madeline Kleiner and I’m a freshman. I am currently undecided on my major, but I’m thinking about biology or political science! I’m interested in theater and swimming and I love to volunteer. I’m also a big reader.
I wanted to get involved in DCI because I wanted to be part of a community where discussion and compromise were prioritized. I’m excited to be a part of conversations with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and where everyone’s voices can be heard. I can’t wait to meet others who are just as excited to have these conversations and foster a sense of respect in those discussions even though our opinions may be different.
Owen Brent-Levenstein ’27
Hi, my name is Owen Brent-Levenstein and I am a sophomore. I am an intended economics major and a possible political science double major or math minor. I am from Chapel Hill, NC, and I love the tar heels and college basketball. In my free time, I like to play tennis, basketball, and chess, as well as spend time with friends and family.
I joined the DCI because I believe that discussing contentious issues with diverse viewpoints is a crucial way to decrease polarization and echo chambers and preserve our democracy. As a DCI fellow, I hope to both learn to better listen to and understand opposing perspectives on contentious issues and how to facilitate productive discussions with a wide range of people.
Tehinnah Kitcher ’27
Hi! My name is Tehinnah Kitcher and I am a sophomore intended Political Science major and Russian Studies minor with a passion for international relations. On campus I am involved with the Chidsey Leadership Program, Mock Trial, Students Against Sexual Violence, and Walt 1610. I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and family, traveling, and making art.
Growing up in Ukraine alerted me to the imperative nature of public discourse and political awareness. I am excited to be a part of DCI because not only does the program promote these values, it does so while cultivating an environment where everyone is respected and comfortable with sharing their opinions. Such free and open dialogue is seldom found today. I participated in a D-Team last year and found that engaging in these deliberative discussions aided in fostering my personal development. As a DCI fellow, I look forward to leading D-Teams and being exposed to differing ways of thinking in the process.
Zak Abdulahi ’27
My name is Zakariye Abdulahi, and I am a sophomore planning to major in Economics and Political Science. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, but my family is originally from Somalia. On campus, I am a member of the Davidson Cross Country and Track teams. Additionally, I am involved with the Muslim Student Association (MSA), Davidson Pre-Consulting Society, and Davidson Investment and Finance Association. In my free time, I enjoy listening to hip-hop music, watching or rewatching movies, and reading.
My interest in becoming a DCI fellow originated from my involvement in urban planning initiatives in my hometown. I enjoyed facilitating discussions in my community on matters such as zoning, infrastructure, and urban planning. I was also inspired to become a DCI fellow to respond to the current hyperpolarization in our public sphere. I believe failure to facilitate constructive conversations on issues that affect us leads to our collective detriment. As a DCI fellow, I hope to contribute to the strengthening of our democracy through meaningful conversations.
