The University of Nebraska College of Law’s Inclusive Leadership Fellows Program will host a panel discussion about the importance of civil engagement around tough issues just one week before Election Day, as lawyers — and many other Americans — are struggling through one of the most polarized political cultures in recent memory.
During their time at Nebraska Law, students build skills that allow them to listen graciously, value diversity and speak thoughtfully — skills that are core to the legal profession. The panel discussion will examine the roles individuals play in engaging in disagreements and challenges respectfully and head-on.
The discussion, titled "Disagreeing Better: Fostering Meaningful Civic Conversations," will be at noon Oct. 29 in the College of Law’s Hamann Auditorium in McCollum Hall. Panelists include Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese, Nebraska State Sen. Wendy DeBoer, Kutak Rock partner and author Jay Jackson and Nebraska Law Professor Kristen Blankley, with Nebraska Law Professor Anthony Schutz serving as moderator. A Q&A session will follow the discussion.
The event, featuring a bipartisan panel and ideologically diverse sponsorship, was intentionally planned to be held one week before Election Day.
“We hope to garner significant attendance from the student body, no matter their politics,” said Kenneth Pancake, managing fellow of the Inclusive Leadership Fellows Program. Co-sponsors of the event include the Nebraska Law chapters of the Federalist Society and American Constitution Society, and Nebraska Law’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office.
The program has been approved for one continuing legal education credit. Register here.
