For a long time, there was an elephant in the room at James Madison University: Conservative students were hesitant to speak up on campus because they felt like part of an ideological minority. Instead of letting the situation fester, administrators are addressing it proactively. Now, at first-year orientation, facilitators lead new students in a session called Better Conversations Together.
After a 90-minute discussion session, students are invited to reveal a sticky note on which they’ve written their political identity. Students are often nervous to share, fearing that they’ll be judged for their affiliation. Facilitators emphasize that there are no “wrong” or “bad” answers, challenging the stigma head-on and sending a message that everyone’s voice is meant to be heard at JMU. That simple action creates a welcoming environment from the very beginning, where students see and appreciate their peers’ bravery and candor. That’s a message that serves JMU graduates well after they leave campus.
Positive role modeling doesn’t stop at orientation. JMU regularly brings together groups of prominent students—such as athletes and social media influencers—to share a meal and discuss difficult issues with campus leadership.
Students are encouraged to disagree and challenge leaders, making the conversations as honest as possible. The experience plants seeds of lasting change, with students going back to their peer groups ready to demonstrate the power of productive dialogue.
James Madison University is part of Campuswide Immersion where campuses are working to reach every student, not just those who opt-in. See more examples in Motivation Matters: From student interest to civic action.
