Dalton State College will launch the college’s Constitution Week activities with a community-focused 4Cs Civil Discourse Workshop, a nationally recognized program aimed at fostering civic engagement and respectful dialogue across campus and the broader community.
The event is free and open to the public and will take place Thursday, Sept. 11, at 6 p.m. in the Goodroe Auditorium on the Dalton State campus.
“Equipping our campus and broader community with the tools to engage in meaningful dialogue as we pursue knowledge and truth is at the heart of our role as an institution of higher learning,” John Fuchko, President of Dalton State, said. “Hosting the 4Cs Civil Discourse Workshop reflects Dalton State’s deep commitment to fostering a campus culture rooted in respect, belonging and civic engagement.”
The workshop is built around the 4C’s framework of civil discourse: be Curious, be Charitable, be Conscientious and be Constructive. It will be facilitated by Dr. Katheryn Joyce, director of Civil Discourse for Citizenship Program of the Center for Ethics and Human Values at Ohio State University, and Dr. Aaron Yarmel, associate director of The Ohio State University’s Center for Ethics and Human Values.
Attendees will learn practical strategies for navigating challenging conversations and engaging in thoughtful, respectful dialogue—even when perspectives differ. The workshop is designed to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and active participants in democratic life.
“Whether you’re a student, educator, or community leader, this workshop will equip you to engage in vigorous, respectful discussions about various topics despite disagreement. We hope community members will join us for an evening of meaningful conversation and connection,” said Melissa Whitesell, director of the Roberts Library at Dalton State and chair of the college’s Civil Discourse initiatives.
Civil discourse is a cornerstone of Dalton State’s campus culture and a key component of the college’s Vision 2050 strategic plan, which includes an initiative to create the Roadrunner Experience. As part of the Roadrunner Experience, Dalton State aims to cultivate graduates who are critical thinkers with strong media and scientific literacy—individuals who communicate with empathy, clarity, and confidence, especially across lines of difference.
Earlier this year, Dalton State’s John Davis defeated a competitor from the University of Georgia to become the individual debate champion of the University System of Georgia’s second annual Regents Cup Debate Series. Davis, who will graduate in December with a bachelor’s degree in history, credited his family for encouraging debate at home as a way to make change happen. Matthew Hipps, associate professor of political science, and Seth Weitz, associate professor of history, served as coaches for Dalton State’s first debate team, which included Davis and two additional students.
Constitution Week, observed annually from September 17–23, honors the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. In addition to the community workshop on September 11, Dalton State will offer sessions for student leaders and faculty and staff, organize a “Hot Topics” student discussion, hold a public reading of the Constitution, and provide voter registration opportunities.
To learn more about civil discourse initiatives at Dalton State, visit www.daltonstate.edu/civil-discourse.
