University of Arizona

Leveraging the humanities as a tool for civic engagement with the University of Arizona College of Humanities.

Today’s society is polarized on virtually every major issue. What used to be called statesmanship is now in short supply, with terms like “civil discourse” taking on new and more charged meanings. But what if we could use the art of open conversation to help address the challenges of our time?

To show the power of the humanities, Mission Partners supported the launch of the University of Arizona College of Humanities’ movement to encourage the application of humanities skills across professions, industries, and the world at large.

This national effort kicked off with an inaugural panel event, where speakers across the political spectrum presented a range of opinions and encouraged audience members to consider other perspectives. Mission Partners prepared speakers with a briefing kit, run-of-show, moderator’s guide, and templated communications for speakers to promote the event within their networks. Mission Partners also built a guest list of leaders from diverse schools of thought to create dynamic conversation, and behind the scenes, Mission Partners ensured core messages about the event were clear and accessible. Mission Partners also supported the university with donor communications and provided a post-event report to share impact with key stakeholders.

Through the launch of this series, the university elevated its national profile and increased the credibility of the humanities as a tool for thoughtful discussion. The event welcomed some of the nation’s leading voices and influencers in the humanities, earned coverage that extended the reach beyond those in attendance, and helped secure financial investments to support the continued growth of this work.