A national coalition that includes the University of Dayton is demonstrating how colleges and universities can intentionally prepare students to become informed, engaged citizens.
The new College Presidents for Civic Preparedness Impact Report highlights the work of institutions that collectively serve more than 1 million students. UD contributes experience from initiatives including the Dialogue Zone, the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community and the Center for Social Concern, along with the University’s Catholic, Marianist tradition and commitment to the common good.
“At a time of deep division, this coalition is giving students the skills and opportunities to engage across differences and solve problems together,” said Rajiv Vinnakota, president of C&S, the organization that convenes the coalition.
“This is a critical role for higher education that is more important than ever in today’s highly polarized environment,” President Eric F. Spina said when UD joined the initiative in 2024.
The coalition focuses on helping students engage productively across differences, evaluate information and collaborate to solve problems — skills its members view as essential for civic life and the workplace.