Topic:“It Isn’t About the Facts: Skills for Difficult Conversations in a Divided World”

Abstract: Whether it is over COVID vaccines, climate change, or our faith, we often find ourselves in difficult conversations whether with their fellow believers or secular friends and colleagues. This talk provides an initial set of tools and practices that serve to help us effectively engage with others in a way that reflects the spirit of Christ and builds relationships across divides.  These include the development of a toolbox of skills that provide concrete approaches to ways to effectively listen, ask clarifying questions, and express perspectives in a way that enhances dialogue.

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025, 4:30-6:00 pm CST. 

Location: Aldevron Tower, Rm 150, NDSU Campus (14th Ave N. and Albrecht Blvd).

Visitor parking is across the street south of the Aldevron Tower.

Speaker: Janel Curry, President and CEO of the ASA 

Janel Curry has a PhD in Geography and has taught Geography and Environmental Studies at Central College and Calvin University.  She has done extensive research on religious worldviews and their impact on views of nature, including how views of the relationship among God, humans and nature affect our responses to climate change and natural disasters.  

Zoom link: https://ndsu.zoom.us/j/97169887543?pwd=Ew6Kn383Q8SJhq2WgWJdrf90xXrm11.1