Higher Education
Bringing dignity to campus dialogues across the country using The Dignity Index
OUR ROLE IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Higher education has faced a myriad of challenges over the last two decades, which has impacted the public perception of the value of a college degree, and has also caused many to question the role of colleges and universities in advancing our democracy. Institutions of higher education have had to navigate the complex relationship between social and political forces that have significantly impacted both their strategic direction and their everyday activities. From budget cuts in states and calls for institutions to reduce their costs, to racially-based admissions policies, to violence and hate crimes on campuses, many leaders across the highly decentralized U.S. higher education system need ways to unite their campuses and better align with other stakeholders to strengthen the system’s role in the social fabric of American life.
Unfortunately, the climate on many college and university campuses mirrors the highly polarized political and cultural climate in the United States. This tense campus climate has resulted in increased contempt – in language and action – and a decreasing ability for students, faculty and staff to have healthy dialogue or tolerate diverse viewpoints, once a hallmark of the postsecondary education experience.
METHOD
The Dignity Index helps campuses navigate these conversations by turning conflict into an opportunity for learning rather than division. It equips students, faculty, and leaders with a shared framework for handling disagreement—supporting free expression, protecting academic freedom, and fostering a culture where all voices can be heard with respect.
In an era where polarization often dominates, the Dignity Index gives higher education a practical tool to build stronger communities grounded in trust, curiosity, and dignity.
HIGHER EDUCATION TOOLKIT
OFFERINGS
Workshops
60–90 minute sessions for student governments, leadership groups, and campus clubs to practice using the Dignity Index.
New Student Orientation
Introduces incoming students to the Dignity Index and its application to campus life and dialogue.
Faculty Training
Equips faculty to manage classroom discussions, debate, and inquiry using the Dignity Index to foster free speech, diverse opinions, and productive disagreement.
Student-Led Groups
Groups that promote dignity on campus through social media campaigns, teach-ins, guest speakers, and topical debates.
Presidential Leadership
University presidents (and senior leaders) commit to dignity by taking the pledge, joining a 90-minute training, and developing a campus implementation plan.
Coming soon: Plug-and-play class activities, dignity code of conduct, and train the trainer.
LEARN MORE
Questions about Higher Education? Fill out this form to get in touch with the Higher Education team.
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