On Friday, August 30th, the DCI kicked off the school year with a burst of energy and enthusiasm! Around 40 people gathered to dive into lively discussions over pizza, connecting with fellow Davidson students, faculty, and staff. The event was a vibrant mix of newcomers to the DCI and seasoned veterans, all eager to mingle and engage.
The celebration took place in the College Union’s 900 Room, where tables engaged in conversation on a diverse array of topics. Our new cohort of DCI Fellows did an exceptional job inviting students, staff, and faculty from the College Union, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged dialogue. Each table was thoughtfully equipped with Conversation Agreements and Deliberative Dispositions to help guide discussions.
Every 15 minutes or so, the DCI Faculty Director, Dr. Graham Bullock took the floor to briefly highlight upcoming DCI events and offer useful deliberation tips. To keep the energy high, we also held a fun raffle— each attendee had a chance to win a coveted DCI T-shirt. The excitement was palpable as names were drawn, and every winner received their prize with a smile, adding a festive touch.
The event proved to be a fantastic start to the school year, providing participants with a meaningful opportunity to connect in new and engaging ways. It highlighted the DCI’s dedication to fostering respectful and thoughtful dialogue in today’s polarized climate. By embodying the DCI spirit of building democracy, one conversation at a time, the event set a wonderful tone for what promises to be an enriching year of DCI programs and events.
