By Cal Lutheran NewsWith a focus on dialogue and nonpartisan civil discourse, California Lutheran University has formed a new advisory committee for the Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civic Engagement to guide its programming and activities. The Center remains committed to the mission of cultivating civic leaders, promoting public service, bridging differences, and providing a forum for discussing important and timely ideas.
“Janice and I are optimistic to see the work that Cal Lutheran is doing toward making the Gallegly Center a spoke of a wheel of educational learning and a beacon of light toward political and civil discourse,” said Congressman Elton Gallegly. “Bringing together differing ideas through finding common ground is the ideal of a good democracy.”
Through this work, Cal Lutheran continues to establish a culture where diverse perspectives are valued as essential to democratic citizenship and problem-solving. It also allows the university to create distinctive learning opportunities for students.
“The importance of attending college is more than earning your degree; it’s engaging in uncomfortable conversations in order to grow. College is a place where your voice matters, and provides an open invitation for you to use your voice,” said Kenya Williams, a Cal Lutheran student and member of the Gallegly Advisory Committee. “Productive dialogue between two individuals who do not agree is one of the most beautiful things we do as humans because it not only challenges our own beliefs, but encourages curiosity through learning of a new perspective.”
The Gallegly Center will create opportunities for students and members of the broader Cal Lutheran community to engage with important ideas, hear diverse perspectives and participate in meaningful dialogue across differences.
“I am so pleased that Cal Lutheran is continuing its work with the Gallegly Center for Civic Engagement,” said Kate McLean, a member of the Board of Regents and the Gallegly Advisory Committee. “Civility is a cornerstone of our democracy and the work of the Center to foster dialogue that bridges differences and provides a forum for nonpartisan civil discourse is needed now more than ever.”
The Gallegly Advisory Committee will provide guidance and counsel on how the Gallegly Center can best embrace its mission and vision while serving Cal Lutheran students and the broader local community.
Advisory Committee Members
The Gallegly Advisory Committee includes community members, campus representatives, and students.
Community Members
- Congressman Elton Gallegly
- Janice Gallegly
- Mike Sedell
- Bill Kearney
- Matt LaVere
- Kate McLean
- Glen Becerra
- Sara Martinez
- Andy Fox
- Regina Hatcher-Crawford
Campus Representatives
- President John Nunes
- Provost Leanne Neilson
- Dean Gerhard Apfelthaler
- Chief of Staff Caitlin Hodges
- Professor Emeritus Herb Gooch
Student Representative
- Kenya Williams
The Gallegly Center’s work is grounded in a commitment to civic engagement, dialogue, and public service. The Cal Lutheran community and our local partners are invited to collaborate in building a culture of thoughtful civic engagement and public service. Events and programs sponsored by the Gallegly Center will take place throughout the year; watch for updates about this exciting programming.
“Asking hard questions and learning about different perspectives are at the heart of academic inquiry,” said Matthew E. Gordley, dean of the Cal Lutheran College of Arts and Sciences. “Bringing our campus and surrounding community together to explore complex issues, build knowledge and expand our capacity for understanding is an important role for higher education institutions.”
