We believe that qualities of leadership and civic participation can be enhanced in students through course content and pedagogical strategies. We will concentrate our efforts on a few key areas.

      To enhance students' independence of mind we will foster their ability to hold informed opinions and engage in discussions about controversial issues. We urge our colleagues to put more emphasis on engaging students with a variety of perspectives, encouraging their willingness to stand in others’ shoes and fostering their ability to weigh trade-offs carefully. This area is the focal point of activity of the new Program for Speaking, Arguing, and Writing, with which the Center collaborates closely.

      The Center will collaborate with the Office of the Dean of the College and with student organizations in pursuit of the common goal of promoting leadership and citizenship in the co-curricular life of the College. Important aspects in this respect are a student’s sense of personal values and goals and the ability to work with others from diverse backgrounds.

      Collaborative learning and the use of case studies are two important examples of pedagogical strategies that help to develop competencies for leadership and citizenship. The Center will build on existing strengths in these areas, e.g Model U.N. and courses throughout the curriculum, and facilitate workshops for additional faculty development where necessary.