Skip to main content

President's Blog: From the Heart

Is Civility a Lost Art?

By Eric F. Spina

Is engaging in respectful dialogue and carefully listening to opposing viewpoints a lost art?

Evidenced by the overflow crowd of University of Dayton students at a recent Friday afternoon panel discussion, “Civil Dialogue in Uncivil Times,” that was sponsored by the department of communication, I would say it’s far from lost. But our times clearly call for renewed efforts.

The University of Dayton is putting front and center a commitment to graduating students with the skills to work across differences in diverse communities on meaningful issues. We strive to graduate students well prepared for their careers and armed with skills in problem solving, collaboration, conflict resolution — and the ability to engage in positive, open conversations around the thorniest of issues.

These are skills every college graduate needs, but can civility be taught? We’re taking a multi-faceted approach:

1. Respecting people, especially those who are different.

That’s at the heart of our mission and part of our fabric as a Catholic, Marianist university. The Marianists value the dignity of every person and challenge all on our campus to do the same. We sometimes fail, but we strive to help each other learn from hurtful behavior.

2. Learning how to engage in courageous conversations.

In a required oral communications class that’s received national attention, students engage in meaningful conversations with others who hold different perspectives — all with the goal of understanding each other better. Outside the classroom, student leaders are bringing their peers together to dialogue around challenging topics. The Student Government Association (SGA) sponsored two “Tough Talks” last year, addressing issues of race and gender identity on campus and the American political climate.

3. Creating space for dialogue.

Soon, as part of a renovation of the campus library, we will have dedicated space — dubbed a Dialogue Landing Zone — for conversations.

4. Holding ourselves to high standards.

At the traditional academic convocation each fall, all first-year students pledge a “commitment to community.” Our student development and campus ministry staffs challenge our students every day — in the residence halls, on retreats and in service to others — to become their best selves.

5. Developing “best practices” for integrating dialogue into courses.

Jason Combs, who teaches oral communication — what we’ve dubbed Civil Dialogue 101 — sees a growing need for competence in this discipline. He’s developed six “best practices” for other communication professors who want to integrate effective dialogue into their courses.

Civility is not a lost art — but we need to reclaim it.

(This piece originally appeared on LinkedIn on Oct. 30, 2018.)

Previous Post

Standing in Solidarity

In a letter to the campus community, I urge students, faculty, and staff to be "committed advocates for peace," following what's believed to be the deadliest attack on American Jews in history.
Read More
Next Post

Our Voices — And Our Votes — Matter

Allison Saracina, a senior international studies major, has learned a powerful lesson from serving as a Dayton Civic Scholar and volunteering as a student ambassador for the nonpartisan organization Vote Everywhere.
Read More