About CDP

The Center for Dialogue & Pluralism (CDP), formerly the Intergroup Dialogue Project, was established in 2012. Its initial offering was 2 sections of its semester-long undergraduate course, Intergroup Dialogue (EDUC 2610). Since then, CDP has expanded its reach and impact to become Cornell’s primary forum for dialogue and pluralism education and a key collaborator for Cornell’s cross-unit initiatives in undergraduate education.

In addition to growing Intergroup Dialogue into a course that serves ~150 students per semester, CDP has spearheaded several key interventions for dialogue and pluralism education at Cornell. These include:

• a pre-orientation program for all ~4,100 incoming Cornell undergraduates, which runs each August since 2018 (Community at Cornell)
• an extensive training program for undergraduate peer facilitators on the theory and practice of dialogue and pluralism education (Leading Dialogue Across Difference – EDUC/ILRID 4826)
• numerous courses for students in both traditional and innovative formats (e.g., Pathways to Purpose – PUBPOL/HE 2700, a 1-credit, 1-weekend course on civic purpose)
• professional development programs for faculty (e.g., Reimagining Pluralism at the University) and student-facing staff (e.g., Advising Across Difference)
• an eCornell credential for working professionals beyond higher education (Leading through Dialogue & Connection)
• the establishment of an alumni network for CDP alumni to continue developing dialogue facilitation skills and serve as mentors for current students
• resources on dialogic skills and pluralistic frameworks for use by the Cornell community and the broader public.

As an academic unit under the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, CDP collaborates extensively with Cornell colleges and units to improve educational outcomes for students. Major partnerships have included those with the Brooks School of Public Policy, the College of Human Ecology, the Duffield College of Engineering, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, the West Campus House System, the Office of the Provost, and the Office of the President.

In line with Cornell’s academic mission, CDP’s work extends beyond teaching to include research and outreach. CDP conducts rigorous assessment of its own programs as well as studies on the long-term impact of dialogue and pluralism education on undergraduate students. It has also won grants to collaborate with external partners (e.g., Interfaith America), hosted two conferences on dialogue in higher education, and contributed to training materials for New York State Community Public Health Leaders.

Ultimately, CDP seeks to make dialogue and pluralism education a defining feature of the Cornell academic experience. To serve as leaders and citizens in our interconnected and complex world, every Cornell student needs meaningful opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills for engaging across difference, building resilient communities, and collaborating effectively within a pluralistic society.