Hunter College and ACERT is excited to partner with the Constructive Dialogue Institute (CDI) to introduce the Perspectives Program – an initiative designed to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and compassion across our campus community. Rooted in the belief that meaningful learning happens through open, respectful dialogue, the program empowers students, faculty, and staff to engage thoughtfully across lines of difference.

The CDI Perspectives platform offers a wealth of resources, including conversation guides, lesson plans, blog posts, case studies, and publications, all centered on fostering constructive dialogue in classrooms and professional spaces. It also provides certifications for those who wish to become trained facilitators, helping faculty, staff, and student leaders guide difficult conversations both in and out of the classroom.

To bring these ideas to life at Hunter, ACERT will be launching a series of interactive events throughout the year:

• Lunch, Learn, and Launch Gathering – Monday, November 3 at noon
  Faculty and staff will be introduced to the CDI Perspectives Program and explore how it can enrich teaching, learning, and professional practice. *Please register by Wed, Oct 28*

• Coffee, Donuts, and Dialogue: Syllabus Design Workshop – Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 10 a.m.
  Participants will have the opportunity to integrate Perspectives concepts into their syllabi and classroom activities. ACERT will provide hands-on design support and share sample lesson outlines to jumpstart Spring course planning.

• Monthly Teaching Circle – Spring 2026
  To sustain this work, ACERT will host a monthly gathering for those interested in deepening their use of CDI concepts, fostering an ongoing community of practice dedicated to dialogue, understanding, and inclusive pedagogy.

Together, these initiatives represent Hunter’s commitment to nurturing an academic environment where all voices are heard and valued. By engaging with CDI’s Perspectives Program, our community continues to lead with empathy, bridge divides, and model the kind of dialogue that strengthens both our classrooms and our world.

Register for ACERT’s CDI Perspectives Course

To learn more about CDI’s work, visit constructivedialogue.org/perspectives. You can also contact us at acert@hunter.cuny.edu.