​The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation is proud to welcome Awa Harris as our newest Nevins Fellow. A dedicated student of Communication Arts and Sciences at Penn State, Awa brings both scholarly insight and a deep passion for civic engagement to her work. With a focus on inclusivity and community dialogue, she embodies the mission of NCDD by helping diverse voices be heard and valued. Her fellowship marks a significant step in her journey as a democratic leader, blending academic learning with hands-on practice to support vibrant, collaborative communities. Read more in the blog post below.

​Cristin Brawner has been named the new Executive Director of the NCDD Member Organization, National Issues Forums Institute, bringing years of experience in civic engagement, collaborative leadership, and a deep commitment to deliberative democracy. Her career has been marked by inclusive practices, statewide impact, and a strong vision for strengthening public dialogue. Read more in the blog post below.

A free virtual workshop hosted by the Association of Science-Technology Centers on June 16, 2025, will bring together dialogue practitioners, science communicators, and museum professionals to explore how structured conversations can bridge scientific knowledge and community decision-making. Highlighting museums as trusted venues for dialogue, the event features hands-on exercises, real-world case studies, and practical tools to support inclusive engagement on issues like climate change, public health, and technology policy. By bridging science and society through dialogue, this timely and accessible workshop builds vital skills for navigating today’s complex challenges. Read more in the blog post below.

​In a time of deep political divides and declining trust in democratic institutions, Living Room Conversations offers a simple yet transformative solution: meaningful dialogue rooted in human connection. Through small, structured conversations, people from all walks of life come together to listen, reflect, and reimagine what inclusive civic life could look like. With tools like conversation agreements, guided question rounds, and access to national networks, these grassroots gatherings foster understanding and inspire local action. It's a powerful reminder that revitalizing democracy begins not in the halls of power—but in our own living rooms. Read more in the blog post below.

The Spring 2025 issue of NCDD Friend's National Civic Review, this Review showcases eight compelling articles focused on innovative practices in democratic engagement. From Portland’s bold adoption of proportional representation to the use of potlucks as tools for civic connection, each piece offers unique insights into how communities across North America are reimagining participation and public decision-making. Topics include participatory budgeting in NYC, citizen deliberations on police oversight in Springfield, and governance reforms in Cambridge and the Yukon. Together, these stories reveal a growing movement to deepen inclusion, transparency, and local stewardship. Read more in the blog post below.

​Ball State University's Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) invites changemakers, educators, and thought leaders to the 2025 Conference on Civic Studies & Democracy, themed “Character, Aesthetics, and Community.” Set for September 25–27, this interdisciplinary event explores how civic identity is shaped at the intersection of moral development, artistic expression, and communal life. With topics ranging from education and digital participation to public art and democratic architecture, the conference seeks to reimagine civic engagement through a multifaceted lens. Proposal submissions are open until June 15, 2025. Read more in the blog post below.

​NCDD is now accepting applications for its flexible, remote summer internship program — an excellent opportunity for students and emerging professionals passionate about dialogue, deliberation, and civic engagement. Internship roles are available in Communications, Democracy Engagement, Grant Writing, Membership Engagement, and Program Development, each offering mentorship and hands-on experience in the field. Interested applicants are invited to learn more at our May 20 info session. Plus, don’t miss our upcoming May 22 webinar on rethinking inclusivity in public engagement and be sure to complete the NCDD Network Survey by May 31 to help shape the future of our work. Read more in the blog post below.

​The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is hosting a compelling virtual conversation with Sharon Davies, president and CEO of the Charles F. Kettering Foundation - Today, April 24 at 10 a.m. This event will delve into the future of democracy, civic engagement, and strategies to counter authoritarianism. With a distinguished career in law, academia, and social justice leadership, Davies brings deep insight to the discussion. The event is free and open to the public via Zoom, with registration required. Read more in the blog post below.