Ruby Aaver

In this holiday season of gathering with loved ones, you may be wondering what to do if sensitive topics come up that stimulate disagreement and discord. Should you follow the age-old dictum to “not talk about politics and religion” with loved ones? Or is there a way to navigate these conversations effectively?

Two organizations recently published some tips on how to best handle discussions over the holidays on contentious issues. The Constructive Dialogue Institute’s “Holiday Conversation Guide” and the Difficult Dialogues National Resource Center  “Six Strategies for Staying Productive During Holiday Conversations”  both emphasize that meaningful conversations during emotionally charged moments—especially around politics and identity—depend first on managing tensions rather than winning arguments.

When conversations escalate, people become less capable of listening and more likely to entrench their views. Both guides therefore stress slowing down, pausing before responding, and stepping away when emotions run high. De-escalation is framed not as avoidance, but as a necessary condition for understanding: conversations improve when participants shift their goal from persuasion or “being right” to maintaining connection and openness. This reframing helps prevent conflict from damaging relationships and creates space for mutual learning.

A second shared insight is the importance of curiosity, dignity, and perspective-taking. Both texts encourage asking questions that surface the sources, values, experiences, and emotions underlying people’s beliefs rather than reacting to positions alone. Ask someone you disagree with to share a resource that influenced their perspective. By acknowledging emotions and inviting others to share their stories, participants signal respect even amid disagreement. Research cited in the two documents suggests that perspective-taking, especially when people share vulnerabilities, can reduce biases and deepen understanding over time. Importantly, neither document suggests agreement is required; instead, they argue that recognizing others’ humanity and moral frameworks is central to sustaining constructive engagement across difference.

Finally, both documents underscore that productive conversation is a skill that requires judgment and practice. Not every comment demands a response, and timing matters as much as content. Choosing when to engage, when to listen, and when to step back can help preserve relationships and maintain connections. Tools such as storytelling, feeling-based language, and structured approaches like pausing, acknowledging, listening, and sharing help participants respond deliberately rather than reactively. Taken together, the documents present a hopeful message: with practice, intentionality, and care, difficult conversations, especially with those closest to us, can become opportunities for growth, connection, and shared understanding rather than sources of division.

This year we have another cohort of amazing DCI Fellows that we would like to introduce you to! They include first years through seniors, students from Ukraine, India, 4 different states, and majors in Philosophy, German, Politics, Physics, Economics, Biology and more! They all share a deep commitment to free expression, respectful dialogue, and robust deliberation, and they have all been trained as deliberation facilitators. They have utilizing their skills as D Team facilitators this fall and deliberating with one another in their weekly Fellows meetings. They are also planning some amazing deliberation projects for the spring — stay tuned for more information on that front! You can learn more about their backgrounds and why they joined the DCI in their bios below.

Katie Jung ’28

Hi my name is Katie Jung and I am a sophomore intended Philosophy, Politics, & Economics (PPE) and history double major. On campus I am involved in DCSO, Mock trial, SGA, and PASA! In my free time I enjoy watching documentaries and listening to all types of music.

I joined DCI because it provides an outlet for me to help both myself and others grow. By collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and interests, I have gained nuanced perspectives that challenge me to think in new ways. As I continue to facilitate and deliberate in conversations, I look forward to engaging with individuals who bring unfamiliar ideas to the table and contribute my experiences and passion for civic engagement to the program.

Mary Molloy Blackstock ’26

Hi, I’m Mary Molloy Blackstock, a senior at Davidson College majoring in Political Science and German Studies. On campus, I work as an AT in the German Studies department, contribute to student programming through the Union Board, and am a member of Warner Hall Eating House. Outside of academics, I love traveling and spending time outdoors!

I joined the DCI because I believe it is crucial to create and engage in spaces where productive political deliberation across differing opinions is not only possible but encouraged. DCI’s mission of fostering free and open dialogue is deeply important, and I am excited to help advance the values it represents.

Nikita Aleksii ’28

Hi! My name is Nikita and I’m from Odessa, Ukraine. I’m a sophomore double-majoring in Computer Science and Physics. With my degree in Physics, I plan to pursue a PhD in a physics-related field to work for the prosperity of humanity. Why I chose Davidson? I chose it because of its vibrant and united community that nurtures the spirit of being a diligent and responsible citizen. An interesting fact about me is that I know four languages: Russian, Ukrainian, English, and German.

I’m also very passionate about discussing hot topic issues, such as gun control, immigration, and climate change. While debating, it is complicated to discuss such contentious questions without cursing each other. That’s why I joined DCI–to participate in respectful conversations by recognizing differences and limitations within the community. I genuinely believe that if we actively and respectfully listen to each other, we will be able to understand our opinions more clearly while also encouraging a proactive campus involvement in the political life.

 Oliver Genovese ’28

Hello! My name is Oliver Genovese and I live in Charleston, South Carolina. I am sophomore here at Davidson and am majoring in economics with a minor in hispanic studies. I have lived in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York throughout my life before Charleston, so I have lived in many different areas of the nation. Something interesting about me is that I am a marathon runner and plan on competing in my first Ironman during the upcoming year in Maryland. I love the adrenaline rush and having to push myself to keep going as marathons are mostly mentally challenging I believe, not physically challenging really.

I am interested in deliberation as I think that especially in today’s society, having productive discourse is very important so that people can express their viewpoints on issues without the deliberation becoming unnecessarily heated. Additionally, I signed up to be a DCI Fellow as I debated in the presidential debate that Davidson has every four years, and so I thought that DCI would be an excellent opportunity for me to continue to improve my deliberation skills and would help me be a better listener and to understand better other peoples’ viewpoints on current topics. Overall, I think that by taking part in DCI, I will learn how to be a better citizen overall by learning the key skills needed to not only deliberate successfully, but to facilitate deliberations amongst others.

Rosie Arnaudova ’28

Hello! I am Rosie Arnaudova, a sophomore at Davidson College, majoring in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, with minor in Communication studies and specialization in German language and culture. Some of my hobbies are doing sports, reading, hiking and playing the piano.

I am born in the United States, however, all my life I have lived in Sofia, Bulgaria and now my family is in Vienna, Austria. My international experience has sparked my interest in international relations, politics and global economics. This summer I worked in the Supreme Court of Bulgaria as an assistant and my work involved reading lots of court cases related to immigration. There were certain cases that shocked me, for instance, a young man with death penalty order from Afghanistan was denied entry in Bulgaria and in the territory of the EU because his order was found to be fake. His case made me reflect a lot on immigration laws and the immigration issue in general. For me, the DCI is the perfect opportunity to share what I know and learn more from the others about such complex topics because I want to continue to discuss hard problems that are important for our society. I hope that I can be useful as well to the mission of the DCI and bring people together to create a learning environment, where ideological and political opinions can be expressed respectfully and without judgement.

Saeran Dewar ’28

Hello! I’m Saeran Dewar, from Seattle, Washington. I’m a Philosophy and Political Science double major planning to attend law school. I study philosophy because I enjoy being challenged to think deeply, and political science because I’m passionate about organizing and driving social change. In addition to DCI, I am involved in Davidson Mock Trial, the Davidson Democrats, Students Against Sexual Violence, and serve as a Health Adviser. In my free time you’ll find me in Baker playing club volleyball, or exploring new restaurants with my friends.

No matter the setting, I love asking people questions. From the casual to the philosophical to the political, I love hearing people’s responses and asking more questions after. I listen first, and contribute my own thoughts later, if appropriate. Whether at the dinner table or on a late night drive, I love sparking meaningful conversations. I believe that thoughtfully crafted questions, and the conversations that ensue, are crucial in forming relationships, and therefore in forming a community. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of DCI and to have the opportunity to lead D Teams and foster meaningful conversations with students and community members.

Saffron March ’27

Hi, my name is Saffron March. I am a junior at Davidson College majoring in Psychology with a minor in English. I’m an international student from Birmingham, England. On campus, I’m part of RUF’s Servant Team and the Davidson International Association. Outside of class, I enjoy reading, writing my own stories, and playing video games to relax and stay connected with friends.

As someone who hopes to become a psychologist, I’m drawn to dialogue that allows people to express themselves freely, feel genuinely heard, and reflect critically—both on their own experiences and those of others. I see deliberative discourse as a powerful tool for building mutual understanding, emotional resilience, and inclusive leadership. Being a DCI Fellow is the ideal opportunity for me to strengthen the communication and interpersonal skills that are essential to global citizenship and to my future work supporting, mentoring, and empowering others through psychology.

Savannah Dowtin ’28

Hi! My name is Savannah Dowtin and I’m a Sophomore and intended Educational Studies Major. I grew up in Greensboro, North Carolina and I’m very excited to be a part of DCI this year. On campus involved in Walt 1610 student radio, Turner Eating House, and Fashion Club, and in my free time I enjoy hiking, roller skating, and crafting!

I joined DCI because I believe that college provides the unique and precious opportunity for students to engage with people from all different upbringings, possibly encountering views drastically different from your own for the first time! I want to take advantage of this moment and learn from others around me through productive deliberation, so that I can enter future conversations better understanding the nuance and perspectives on important issues.

Sharon Song ’28

My name is Sharon, and I am so excited to be one of the DCI Fellows this year! Besides being a DCI fellow, I am involved in Women in Math, C2i, Girls in Stem, and the Korean Student Association.

As a Biology major, I was interested in all the ways DCI could explore the intersections of biotechnology and equity within society. Coming from a FGLI-background, I care deeply about questions of affordability and access, especially in healthcare. Through DCI, I hope to engage with diverse perspectives that strengthen my ability to navigate complex ethical and civic questions around healthcare accessibility.

Hi, I’m Abi Barkley, a freshman here at Davidson and I’m currently undecided on my major. I grew up on a small farm in Vale, North Carolina. Aside from being involved in DCI, I spend a lot of time outdoors, running, rock climbing, and backpacking whenever I can. If I’m not doing that, you can find me trying to appreciate the events and fun activities on campus, or just spending time with my friends!

I joined DCI because I grew up in a small community with deeply rooted traditional values and shared beliefs. While this created a sense of unity, it also limited open discussion of differing perspectives. In today’s increasingly divisive political climate, I’ve seen how misunderstanding can quickly shift into intolerance or even hostility. I wanted to be part of something that encourages dialogue instead of division.

Ezra Minard ’28

Hello! I am a sophomore English major on the pre-law track from Marietta, Ohio. In my free time, I enjoy reading, creating art, and playing club soccer. Additionally, I write and edit for the Libertas Magazine. I love to stay active by biking, hiking, and running.

I joined the DCI because I am passionate about deliberation, especially around contentious topics. My interest in becoming a DCI Fellow also stems from growing up in an area that did not generally reflect the views of my family or me. By joining the DCI, I hope to improve our democracy by fostering productive deliberation.

Coralyn Cairns ’29

Hi! My name is Coralyn Cairns, and I am a freshman here at Davidson interested in pursuing a major in Anthropology on the pre-health track. I am from Augusta, Georgia, but no, I don’t like golf. On campus, I am a member of The Nuances and the swim club. I also enjoy participating in Q&A events.

I come from a community with very different beliefs of my own, so growing up, I often felt like my own opinions were too insignificant in the context of my surroundings to be of use to anyone. However, as I have come into my own identity, I have become increasingly aware of how precious every perspective is in building a society based on democratic principles. I joined DCI to help me find my own voice in a time in which doing so is the scariest, yet bravest thing you can do, and also so that I can facilitate others in finding their voices and sharing them.

 

Aditya Pratap Singh Phogat ’29

Hey there! My name is Aditya, and I’m a freshman who intends to major in Politics at Davidson and hopes to pursue a higher education and a career in international relations. I enjoy studying South Asian history (William Dalrymple’s my favourite, though I’m open to any and all suggestions!), composing poetry, and listening to music. Here at the College, I’m currently involved with the Center for Civic Engagement, Moot Court, the Dean Rusk Global Corps, and the South Asian Students’ Association.

As an international student who hails from India, I have witnessed firsthand what happens when discourse disappears from a community: democracy dies, and people get hurt. It is in order to understand why productive discourse is rejected for volatile violence, how it may be prevented on a global scale, and to attempt the defence of the structural strength of the concept of democracy, that I join the DCI as a fellow.

Chase Thomas ’29

Hi, I’m Chase Thomas. I went to Beacon High School in Manhattan and my home is in Forest Hills, Queens. I love playing tennis, painting, thrifting, conducting interviews, and spending time with my family, friends, and dogs. I’m passionate about understanding how emerging technologies impact society and cognition, with an emphasis on identifying risks and safeguarding human well-being, human agency, and democracy in a rapidly evolving digital world. I pursue this through avidly researching, interviewing, reading, and working with the DCI.

The decline of productive discourse troubles me deeply; I don’t believe we lack solutions to our shared problems—we lack the collaboration, systems, and sustained attention to bring those solutions to life. I’ve seen how deliberation creates space for real transformation when done with the DCI’s key deliberative dispositions. With formal training through the DCI, I am determined to help forge both local and global communities where diverse voices not only coexist but come together to shape a better future.

Jackson Strelo ’26

Hey! I’m Jackson Strelo, a current senior and Economics major. I’m from St. Louis, Missouri, but despite this, I ardently root for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oklahoma City Thunder (but go Cards!). When I’m not following sports, I’m usually either listening to music, golfing, following the news, or some combination of the three.

I’ve always had a fascination for the social sciences and politics. Stemming back to my time before Davidson, I’ve had the privilege of being surrounded by great mentors and minds who inspired me to take on many opportunities to work closely with our history as well as the people of my community. Fast forward to now … DCI presented me with an amazing opportunity to continue such work while reinforcing critical thinking skills and principles of deliberative communication. Our training provided us with the toolbox to facilitate conversations that effectively unpack the wicked problems that our world faces. While Davidson’s liberal arts philosophy has helped foster the next generation of professionals, problem solvers, and innovators, DCI helps push us further. Through the artfully constructed conversations that we host, as well as initiatives to promote deliberative discussion throughout the Davidson community and beyond, I believe that the DCI will serve me (and those who open their minds to our work) well beyond my Davidson years.

Camryn Friedman ’27

Hi! My name is Camryn Friedman and I am a Junior from Raleigh, NC. I am majoring in Political Science and Environmental Studies, and am interested in pursuing environmental law. At Davidson, in addition to DCI, I’m a campus tour guide, and I’m involved with The Sustainability Collective, the Jewish Student Union, and Turner Eating House. Outside of school, I love spending time in nature and birdwatching!

Throughout my time at Davidson, I have enjoyed learning from my peers who have both similar and different political views from my own. I value these discussions and feel that being open-minded is critical in protecting democracy and mitigating polarization. I joined DCI because I wanted to continue learning from these conversations and I align closely with the DCI’s goals of productive deliberation.

Hi, I’m Bolling Lewis, a sophomore from Richmond, VA, double-majoring in economics and political science. Outside of DCI, I’m involved in extracurriculars such as the Davidson Investment and Finance Association, the Davidson Impact Fund, and the Pickleball Club. In my free time, I love running, hiking, and watching sports.

I decided to join the DCI program because I believe that the opportunity to hear diverse viewpoints concerning an array of contentious topics is an invaluable experience that helps people become more cognizant and empathetic. Spaces where conversations help remind ourselves that we have more in common than what divides us are increasingly limited, further intensifying the importance of DCI’s role at Davidson. I also view the Fellowship as a chance to strengthen my listening and communication skills, which are applicable to many other aspects of life.

Delila Cruz ’28

Hello! My name is Delila Cruz, and I am a sophomore at Davidson. I am still undecided on my major, so I’m hoping that my involvement with DCI will help me focus and refine my interests. I’m from Asheville, NC, but I grew up in northern New Jersey. At Davidson, I am House Manager of Turner Eating House, Business Director of the Civic Engagement Council, a violist in the Davidson College Symphony Orchestra, and a student worker in College Communications.

I originally learned about DCI from my participation in D-Teams last year as a part of Dr. Bullock’s WRI 101 course, Good Argument. I resonated with the DCI’s emphasis on constructive dialogue, and I believe that the ability to effectively communicate is a skill that transcends the sphere of deliberation. I’m excited and honored to help promote a deliberative culture at Davidson!

Ceyda Yesillik ’28

Hi! I’m a sophomore double-majoring in Physics and Economics at Davidson College. I’m from Ankara, Turkey. On campus, I am involved with Turner, SPS, DFA, and DIFA.

I always found discussing your ideas with others was a great way to develop your thinking. Skills we grow in deliberation such as listening, understanding, and synthesizing translate so well to our daily life, and I’m quite excited to learn and grow through DCI.

Desi Molina ’29

Hi! I’m Desi Molina, and an intended Political Science and Educational Studies double major from Chicago. As a freshman, I’m not involved in much yet, besides the DCI I’m the freshman representative for our Black Student Coalition and a member of our club running group. I also love to spend my time exploring new restaurants on main street or in Charlotte and binge watching my favorite show Scandal.

Throughout my life I’ve grown to understand the importance of discourse, whether it be in discussing with family members during thanksgiving or in a classroom setting. I love the opportunity to work with the DCI because it’s a space that values diverse viewpoints and the ability to listen to and understand the perspectives of others, something our nation desperately needs. Through the DCI I hope to learn more about how to be a good deliberator as well as how to encourage others in my life to engage in important, sometimes contentious conversations.

Nehal Bahtia ’29

Hi! I’m an international student from India, and a current freshman at Davidson College. I intend to double major in Biology and Psychology, because I want to become a clinical psychologist and I love both subjects in general. On campus, I’m involved in Club Rowing, Quips and Cranks, Dance Ensemble, etc, and I’ve really enjoyed branching out into different activities this year. In my free time, I love doing crafts, especially with friends. So far, exploring all these new experiences has been really fun, and the Davidson community has made it even better with its inviting and supportive atmosphere. One of my favorite classes right now is Religious Worlds of South Asia. It’s made me realise that even though I’ve grown up in India my whole life and been exposed different religions throughout my childhood there’s still a lot I don’t know.

I joined DCI because I wanted to learn more about deliberation and politics and felt that thoughtful discussion is the best way to do so. I’m open-minded and try not to judge people based on their views, which makes deliberation something I’m naturally drawn to. I’m excited to keep learning and engaging through DCI.