UAlbany’s Great Dane Dialogue Returns, Exploring Civil Discourse and Civic Engagement

UAlbany community members stand by banner for the Great Dane Dialogue

ALBANY, N.Y. (Sept. 9, 2025) — After a successful launch last year, the University at Albany is bringing back the Great Dane Dialogue, beginning on Sept. 15. The campus-wide initiative promotes civil discourse, strengthens civic engagement and equips students with the skills to navigate disagreement with empathy, respect and purpose.

“The Great Dane Dialogue empowers our students to discuss issues that affect them in an open and understanding environment. By promoting dialogue, civil discourse and civic engagement, we're bringing together our vibrant campus community to share the diverse perspectives that shape the UAlbany experience,” said Vice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment Michael Christakis.

Inspired by Constitution Day on Sept. 17, the series features activities, events and online engagement designed to enhance understanding and foster meaningful dialogue with UAlbany’s campus community. In addition to a Marathon Read of the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, there will be a week-long series of moderated discussions with local leaders, elected officials and alumni. The programs will focus on public service, civic engagement and civil discourse. More information about the initiative and the schedule of confirmed programs, classes and events is available on the University’s website.

Other program highlights include:

a Banned Books Read-Out on Sept.15
panel discussions with hosted by the University’s “Leading Questions” series
an interactive workshop with educators and students with Andrew Carnegie Fellow Brett Levy about generating powerful and civil classroom discussions on Sept. 18

In a semester-long campaign, UAlbany’s social media accounts will also share videos and testimonials from students, faculty and staff about what an inclusive and open community means to them.

Panel discussions were planned in collaboration with the Office of Government and Community Relations, Office of Inclusive Excellence and the Office of Communications and Marketing.