NYC Gazette

The City University of New York (CUNY) has announced a new initiative to promote constructive dialogue among its leadership, faculty, and students. Starting October 9, CUNY presidents, deans, and members of the Chancellor’s cabinet will undergo training designed to equip them with skills for handling difficult conversations. Additionally, 50 staff members will be trained as facilitators, while 100 faculty and 50 students will participate in workshops.

This program is supported by the Jeffrey H. and Shari L. Aronson Family Foundation and the Carroll and Milton Petrie Foundation. The Constructive Dialogue Institute will facilitate the sessions aimed at fostering an environment where differences are acknowledged constructively.

“As the most diverse university system in the nation, CUNY has an important role to play in helping individuals navigate conversations," stated CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. He expressed gratitude to their partners for supporting this initiative which aims to enhance communication about differences.

Shari L. Aronson of the Aronson Family Foundation praised CUNY's efforts: “This project is a step towards an ambitious goal to help ensure every person on a CUNY campus feels safe and is equipped to navigate conflicts across differences.”

Cass Conrad from the Petrie Foundation highlighted that "Colleges and universities play an essential role in our society by preparing students to become engaged citizens." This initiative aligns with their mission of helping students succeed in college.

Mylien Duong from the Constructive Dialogue Institute remarked on CUNY's commitment: “We are proud to partner with CUNY through our Leadership Institute... In today’s complex environment, it’s more important than ever to create spaces where differences are embraced.”

The training focuses on conflict leadership skills and developing trust-based campus climates. Participants will reflect on past conflicts and learn strategies for addressing them effectively.

In addition to this program, other measures have been implemented by CUNY over recent years. These include creating the Center for Inclusive Excellence and Belonging (CIEB) last summer, launching a unity campaign titled "Our CUNY: Hate Divides Us, Diversity Defines Us," conducting a system-wide climate survey this fall, partnering with Hillel International's Campus Climate Initiative since 2022, among others.

The Petrie Foundation aims at increasing economic opportunity by strengthening educational pathways for low-income New Yorkers through innovative programs like this one at CUNY—a critical component of New York City's fabric—serving over 233 thousand students annually across its multiple campuses within five boroughs while contributing significantly toward local workforce diversity post-graduation.