Bridging the Political Divide

The Riley Institute’s 2024 StraightTalk series, Politics in the Divided States of America (September 3, 10, 17, 2024), and the Theater Department’s Fall performance, What the Constitution Means to Me (October 17-27, 2024) both offered students a chance to examine the impacts of political polarization and the importance of dialogue across differences for the sake of solving problems and driving progress. This dialogue-based CLP will give students a chance to learn about and practice civil discourse and dialogue across political differences in small groups facilitated by students from the Riley Institute’s Advance Team. Through small group dialogue, students will examine the impact of political polarization in their own college experience and consider how they can participate in reducing partisan animosity on Furman’s campus and beyond.

Dr. Claire Whitlinger is Associate Professor of Sociology at Furman University and Program Founder and Co-Director of Furman’s Intergroup Dialogue Program. Dr. Whitlinger earned her B.A. degree in sociology from the George Washington University and her M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in sociology from the University of Michigan. She teaches courses on collective memory, social movements, race and ethnicity, qualitative methods, and intergroup dialogue.

Dr. Elizabeth Smith is a professor of Politics and International Affairs and serves as Assistant Faculty Director of The Cothran Center for Vocational Reflection at Furman University. Dr. Smith received her Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota where she was a National Science Foundation fellow. She received her B.A. in Political Science from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill graduating with highest distinction as a Morehead Scholar. In 2007, Dr. Smith was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, and served as chair of the department at Furman. She does research on women and politics, political socialization, and public opinion and political science education.

Furman University is committed to maintaining and strengthening an environment that is accessible and inclusive for all members of our community. We want to ensure that everyone can access and enjoy these activities. If you need any accommodations in order to fully participate, please contact the event sponsor to request them. Requests must be received at least three (3) business days prior to the scheduled date of the event or activity.