Recent national events have caused many of us to pause and consider where to go from here. Violence is never acceptable, nor is it the answer to our differences.

It often feels like we live in an increasingly polarized world-and social media and 24/7 news cycles may exacerbate what we're feeling. The world provides enough tension and in moments of national tragedy, like the assassination of Charlie Kirk, it can feel overwhelming to know how to respond. Yet, I am encouraged that here at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA), our students are finding answers rooted in compassion, unity, and Christ.

In a recent local news story, several PBA students were interviewed about this heartbreaking event, and how the launch of a Turning Point chapter on campus reflects their desire to be part of a national conversation. Their words stood out to me. One student named Caylynn Perkins said, "I think it's a beautiful thing to see two sides find common ground and know right from wrong."

That is the heart of our verse of the year: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). Higher education should be a place where students engage in civil conversations and pursue truth.

At PBA, that pursuit is rooted in Christ and Scripture. We believe all people are made in the imago Dei; the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). This reality gives every human being intrinsic value, compelling us to treat each person with respect, kindness, understanding, love, and an eagerness to see them know God and fulfill their God‐given purpose. This pours into everything we do at our university.

Last month, PBA students organized a second campus prayer service. The university is also planning a campus panel discussion on the topic of civil discourse. These are not symbolic gestures; they are real expressions of students and faculty searching for God's direction in a complicated world. Healthy, civil dialogue is critical in higher education where students-our future leaders and world-changers-can openly consider new ideas, challenge old ones, think critically, and form their own worldviews.

Cultivating Civil Conversations in Higher Education

At PBA, we seek to use our words wisely through initiatives like Wordship, which cultivates the practice of using our words wisely to edify others-including those with whom we may disagree-as a form of worship. By using the power of speech to cultivate greater health, satisfaction, reconciliation, and healing in our conversations, we can point others toward God. The LeMieux Center for Public Policy also remains committed to creating a space where students, staff and faculty, alumni, and members of the public can experience grounded public discourse. It is a place where people can discuss local, national, and global policy issues freely, without fear of judgment or repercussions.

In John 13:34 Jesus said, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." Are we showing love in our conversations? Our social media posts or comments?

I believe the next generation needs Jesus more than ever. It explains why we have experienced a steady enrollment increase at PBA over the last four academic years. Students are seeking out Christ-first institutions. I am grateful to lead a university where students can explore a path to Him, renew their minds, and learn how to love others, even in disagreement. May we all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19), weaving Christ's love into every conversation.

Dr. Debra A. Schwinn has served as the president of PBA since May 2020. Previously she was Associate Vice President for Medical Affairs, Dean of the Carver College of Medicine, and Professor of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Biochemistry at the University of Iowa. Prior to those appointments, Dr. Schwinn served in senior leadership roles at the University of Washington and Duke University.