Disagreeing Better / About Disagreeing Better at CSB+SJU

About Disagreeing Better at CSB+SJU

In a time when societal divisions seem insurmountable, our Disagreeing Better at CSB+SJU endeavor seeks to be proactively helping everyone learn the skills needed to foster an environment where dialogue flourishes beyond the boundaries of our differences. It is also core to our Benedictine practices: actively listening with the ear of our hearts, engaging in loving dialogue, embracing the inherent dignity of every person, welcoming all, and pursuing peace.

Disagreeing Better at CSB+SJU will encourage students, faculty, staff, monastics, parents and alumnae/i to learn the skills for disagreeing and then put them into practice not only this election season but in all seasons of life. Together, we are setting the stage for a future where discourse unites rather than divides, creating a more inclusive, empathic, loving and just world. And we’re doing so while living and engaging our Benedictine practices and values. It will invite all into deep relationships.

Our CSB+SJU partnership with Braver Angels and Reduce the Rancor Minnesota is poised to make a significant impact not only on our campuses and in our local community, but its ripples will be far and wide. We also invite engagement with our alumnae/i across the globe through a book read, virtual workshops and lectures, e-courses, and help facilitate Bennies and Johnnies engaging in their own communities—coming together to talk and discuss what you’re learning about better disagreement.

We are excited to unveil a host of options for engaging in the Disagreeing Better initiative throughout the 24-25 academic year and beyond. Check back to this page often. We will continually update events and opportunities for engagement. The work is designed to cater to diverse Bennie+Johnnie interests, schedules, and geographical locations. Each option offers an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from our partnership with Braver Angels, as well as from Minnesota Public Radio’s Talking Sense initiative, an official partner of Braver Angels.

The Steering Group

A diverse group of students, staff, monastics, faculty and administrators from across both campuses serves as the steering group for Disagreeing Better at CSB+SJU. Our meetings are conversation rich, of course. If you are a CSB or SJU student, faculty, staff or monastic and would like to join our group, all are welcome!