We invite you to join us for Difficult Conversations: Academic Freedom, Inclusion, and Respectful Dialogue on March 20, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership, Gerald Schwartz School of Business, St. Francis Xavier University.
This engaging panel discussion, funded by the Jules Leger Fund with additional funding from Student Services, will explore the challenges and possibilities of free speech, academic freedom, and EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility) in a university setting. In an era of campus protests, political divides, and evolving discourse, how can we foster meaningful, respectful conversations that uphold both inclusion and freedom of expression?
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Shannon Dea (Panelist) – Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Classics at the University of Regina. Dr. Dea brings a wealth of experience in philosophy, ethics, and academic leadership to discussions on free speech and academic freedom.
- Dr. Randy Boyagoda (Panelist) – Vice-Dean, Undergraduate, Faculty of Arts and Science; Professor; Graduate Faculty; Undergraduate Instructor; and Provostial Advisor on Civil Discourse. With a background in literature and academic policy, Dr. Boyagoda provides insight into the balance between civil discourse and institutional responsibility.
- Dr. Lynda Harling Stalker (Moderator) – Professor and Director of the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government. Dr. Harling Stalker will guide the discussion, ensuring a dynamic and thought-provoking conversation on these pressing issues.
Open Q&A – Submit Your Questions in Advance
This conversation will be open to audience questions. If you would like to submit a question in advance—especially if you prefer to remain anonymous—you can do so using the following form: Submit Your Question Here
Reception: 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Following the panel discussion, we invite you to stay for a reception, where you can continue the conversation, network with fellow attendees, and engage with the speakers in a more informal setting.
This panel is proudly supported by the Leger Fund and the Office of the Vice President Students.
We encourage you to attend and take part in this critical discussion on the future of civil discourse in academic spaces.
Save the Date: March 20, 2025, 2 – 4 PM
Location: Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership, Gerald Schwartz School of Business
Please feel free to share this invitation with others who may be interested and faculty are encouraged to share with their classes.
