Mission Statement
The students of Georgia Tech created Finding Common Ground in 2006 for the purpose of initiating a continuing culture of dialogue to ensure the inclusion of as many voices as possible in discussions of issues that affect both the campus community and society at large.
Finding Common Ground seeks to foster this dialogue in a way that respects all individual points of view, with the goal of helping students, faculty, and staff acquire and refine the skills and tools they need to communicate effectively. The program does not attempt to change individual beliefs and attitudes, but strives to create an environment where differences of opinion and perspective can be understood, appreciated and discussed in a rational, respectful fashion.
Through the various ongoing initiatives of Finding Common Ground, Georgia Tech students will have an educational experience that will prepare them to appreciate differences in viewpoints and cultures in order to successfully compete in a globalized world.
Goals
- Build relationships with students and faculty they did not previously know
- Learn to communicate effectively and respectfully with people of diverse backgrounds
- Fulfill a desire to become a better listener and to understand and appreciate the perspectives of others
- Break down social barriers related to race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and other elements of identity
- Find ways to ensure an ongoing campus conversation about potentially divisive issues