As the fall semester begins, Vanderbilt welcomes a new class of students ready to engage with ideas, explore identity and build community. One of the university’s signature efforts to support this journey is Dialogue Vanderbilt—a campus-wide initiative that advances the university’s enduring commitment to constructive dialogue and civil discourse, rooted in our core beliefs of free expression and institutional neutrality. It equips the Vanderbilt community with the tools and opportunities to engage in respectful, thoughtful conversations—across differences and on any topic.
The initiative is guided by a dynamic Student Advisory Board of more than 30 students who represent a wide range of backgrounds and viewpoints. These student leaders help shape Dialogue Vanderbilt’s programming, facilitate campus discussions and contribute fresh, creative ideas to expand its reach and impact.
Webinar: Dialogue at Vanderbilt
Incoming students and families are invited to attend Dialogue at Vanderbilt: A Conversation with Campus Leaders and Students on Thursday, Aug. 7, 6–6:30 p.m. CT. This webinar offers an introduction to Vanderbilt’s distinctive culture of open inquiry and commitment to dialogue and civil discourse. The audience will hear directly from campus leaders and students about how these values shape life at Vanderbilt—and how Dialogue Vanderbilt programs will be part of the student experience from day one.
Register for the webinar.>>
CommonVU Orientation: Introduction to Dialogue Vanderbilt
As part of CommonVU Orientation, all incoming students will attend Introduction to Dialogue Vanderbilt with University Leadership on Monday, Aug. 18, at Langford Auditorium. This session will explore Vanderbilt’s commitment to free expression and civil discourse—and how these values prepare students to contribute and lead in a pluralistic, global society. Incoming students will receive more information about how to attend the event as part of orientation materials.
New executive director named
This fall is also the beginning of a new chapter for Dialogue Vanderbilt with the appointment of Francesca Schuler as executive director. Schuler brings a wealth of cross-sector private and nonprofit leadership experience to the role.
Read more about Francesca Schuler’s appointment.>>
About Dialogue Vanderbilt
Launched in 2023, Dialogue Vanderbilt is a hub for programming and partnerships that promote constructive dialogue and civil discourse across campus and beyond. Through workshops, lectures, courses and student-led initiatives, the program supports Vanderbilt’s broader commitment to free expression and open inquiry as essential elements of higher education and democratic society.
For more information, visit vanderbilt.edu/dialogue-vanderbilt.
