Table H: Seeding Open Inquiry: First-Year Experiences in Pursuing Ideas with Curiosity and Courage

How can universities foster environments where diverse perspectives are explored—not silenced—in an era of deep polarization? This session will share the University of Michigan’s bold new initiative to seed a culture of open inquiry through a required first-year student online module and a suite of optional follow-on experiences facilitated by partners throughout the university, including the libraries, dining halls, and other student life units.

Learn how a cross-campus team is building a campus culture that supports free expression, intellectual humility, and constructive dialogue—guided by principles affirming both the First Amendment and a commitment to inclusive democratic learning. Attendees will explore the challenges and possibilities of creating spaces for disagreement and gain practical strategies to support pluralism on their own campuses.

This session will offer a window into a high-profile institutional initiative and provide a set of actionable tools for fostering a culture of curiosity, courage, and open engagement—both inside and beyond the classroom.