NCDD welcomes Peter Schutz to its Board of Directors, recognizing his decades-long commitment to strengthening democracy through small-group dialogue in New Jersey. Blending technical expertise with a deep dedication to human connection, Peter has spent more than 30 years creating spaces where everyday citizens can explore complex issues, listen across differences, and build shared understanding. His work as an engineer, mediator, counselor, and discussion group leader reflects a lifelong belief that democratic renewal grows from authentic, community-level engagement. As he joins the board, Peter brings extensive practical experience, values rooted in justice and inclusion, and a conviction that ordinary people can shape their collective future—contributions that will enrich NCDD’s mission to advance dialogue and deliberation nationwide.

The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation has welcomed Lara Schwartz to its board, recognizing her deep expertise in fostering constructive conversations across differences. As Founding Director of the American University Project on Civic Dialogue, Schwartz has spent over a decade teaching students practical skills for engaging meaningfully across political and social divides, work that reflects her broader career in coalition-building across the civil rights sector. Her philosophy—centered on moving from adversarial debate toward exploratory dialogue—aligns closely with NCDD’s mission, and her experience training facilitators, developing innovative dialogue programs, and navigating complex political environments positions her to help strengthen the field at a moment of rising polarization and democratic strain.

The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) was founded not from formal planning but from a shared recognition of the need for collaboration among practitioners, scholars, and community leaders committed to bridging divides and addressing complex challenges. Emerging from the first National Conference on Dialogue & Deliberation in 2002, NCDD has grown from a single gathering into a global community of practice, connecting hundreds of members and tens of thousands of participants across more than 20 countries. Over two decades, NCDD has become a hub for resources, learning, and innovation in public engagement, developing key frameworks and fostering collaboration across diverse fields. Rooted in values of inclusivity, cooperation, and continuous learning, NCDD models the very principles it promotes—showing that dialogue across differences is both possible and powerful. Its history is defined not only by its accomplishments but by the relationships and collective impact that continue to sustain and inspire its mission today.

The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) proudly welcomes Eric Schmucker as its newest Board Member, bringing over 15 years of experience in program management and community-engaged dialogue. A dedicated practitioner who believes that democracy begins with listening across differences, Eric has led facilitation processes for public and nonprofit organizations through his work with the Institute for Constructive Advocacy and Dialogue at James Madison University. His background spans restorative justice, story exchange, and international community engagement in Indonesia and Uganda, reflecting his commitment to inclusive, context-sensitive dialogue. With deep experience in teaching, governance, and local democracy, Eric emphasizes the importance of sustained discussion, relationship-building, and participatory practices that strengthen communities. His addition to the NCDD Board reinforces the organization’s mission to advance dialogue, deliberation, and civic engagement rooted in equity and shared learning. Read more in the blog post below.

​The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) has welcomed Christian Ohonba to its Board of Directors, recognizing her unique blend of technical expertise, systems thinking, and commitment to social justice. A PMP-certified project manager and MSW candidate at the University of Houston, Christian has led initiatives across sectors including SaaS, nonprofit, healthcare, and higher education, consistently emphasizing human-centered and equity-driven approaches to organizational change. Her work integrates project management excellence with a deep understanding of diversity, inclusion, and sustainable systems design. Beyond her professional career, she fosters community connection through her blog, The Midlife Edit, which supports women navigating life transitions. Christian’s experience and values align strongly with NCDD’s mission to strengthen dialogue, civic engagement, and participatory democracy grounded in inclusivity and authentic collaboration.

The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation (NCDD) has welcomed its Fall 2025 intern cohort, a group of 7 diverse and accomplished students dedicated to fostering inclusive democracy through dialogue. The cohort includes Nahum Ding, a natural mediator studying Human Development; Merveille Julia Bock D'Ileletoua, a human rights advocate and Peace and Justice student; Natalie Vasquez, a Political Science and Urban Studies major focused on immigrant and women’s rights; Sarah Huegler, a Geology and Astronomy student committed to understanding diverse perspectives; Sadiqua Khan, a Psychology major with strong leadership experience; and Sydney Wiggins, a Political Science and Data Science student blending technology with civic engagement and Emory University student, Fern Biswas​. United by their commitment to listening, collaboration, and democratic participation, these interns will contribute to NCDD’s programs, communications, and membership engagement, representing the next generation of changemakers working to strengthen democracy from the inside out.

​The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) invites passionate leaders to join its Board of Directors and help shape the future of dialogue and democracy. With a legacy of transformative leadership and a community of over 20,000 practitioners, NCDD plays a vital role in fostering civic engagement, equity, and collaborative problem-solving across divides. Board members guide strategic decisions that empower communities to engage in meaningful conversations and collective action. If you’re committed to creating inclusive spaces for listening and democratic renewal, this is your chance to make a lasting impact. Contact NCDD's Executive Director, Keiva Hummel - [email protected] - if you are interested. Read more in the blog post below.

The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation (NCDD) is now accepting applications for our Fall 2025 Internship Cohort, beginning the week of September 29th! Open to anyone eager to grow professionally and make an impact, these fully remote internships offer hands-on experience in communications, democracy engagement, digital systems, grant writing, membership engagement, and program development. Applications are due by Friday, September 12th, and selected candidates will be invited to a brief interview. Learn more in the blog post below.

Norma Ramos’s impactful service on the NCDD Board has been a driving force in building bridges across diverse communities, deepening civic engagement, and strengthening democratic dialogue. Her dedication to fostering meaningful conversations and empowering collective action exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that our movement thrives on. To learn more about her journey and contributions, read more in the blog post below.