Pitt is preparing students for civic life, per a new Citizens and Scholars report

The University of Pittsburgh has been recognized yet again for preparing all students to participate in civic life. In its 2025-26 Impact Report, the Institute for Citizens and Scholars' (C&S) College Presidents for Civic Preparedness subcommittee highlighted Pitt's All Angles series as a prime example of civil programming developed by students, for students.

Launched in 2022 and shaped by feedback from more than 1,300 students, the Institute of Politics series brings scholars from around the world to Pitt to speak with students and answer unscripted questions on topics ranging from free speech to foreign policy. Each event attracts hundreds of students, who continue to inform discussion topics that affect students across all five University campuses. All Angles was also featured in a C&S Campuswide Immersion case study earlier this year.

As a member of College Presidents for Civic Preparedness, Chancellor Joan Gabel has emphasized civil discourse as a key Plan for Pitt priority. Through C&S initiatives like the Faculty Institute, Campuswide Immersion and From Campus to Community, Gabel and other university leaders nationwide are building campus cultures where every student feels empowered to engage in dialogue.

"The University of Pittsburgh is deeply committed to creating a campus community where free speech is affirmed and free expression is assured," Gabel said. "Recognition like this reflects this commitment, and our commitment thought the Plan for Pitt, to preparing students to be thoughtful citizens and leaders long after they leave Pitt."

Samantha Balbier, director of the Institute of Politics and the Elsie Hillman Civic Forum, said key practices like reinforcing respect for individuals, representing varied ideological viewpoints and showing students why engaging across difference matters have helped participants confront their differing ideas, even on divisive topics.

The student-exclusive space "gives civil discourse an identity across the campus that they know is for them; it's not for anybody else," Balbier said in the report.

Learn more about All Angles.