Students make signs for the Martin Luther King Day march.
An Ignatian Approach to

Dialogue and Engagement


"Together, we can seek the truth in dialogue, in relaxed conversation or in passionate debate. To do so calls for perseverance; it entails moments of silence, yet it can patiently embrace the broader experience of individuals and the cultural diversity of peoples."
– Pope Francis

What Inspires You?
A statue of St. Ignatius stands in front of Gonzaga's College Hall.

An Ignatian Approach

Respecting differences. Exchanging ideas. Seeking understanding. Bridging divides. Working towards the common good. For hundreds of years, these principals have guided the Jesuits in their pursuit of truth and a better world.

Today – as we face deepening political divisions amplified by news silos and social media algorithms – we believe our Ignatian roots offer a path forward. That's why we're working across campus and the greater Spokane community to provide opportunities for real dialogue and engagement on today's pressing issues.

Civil Discourse in the Jesuit Tradition
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"Is not dialogue the vocation of a university in a polarized world?"
– Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J. (’68), Gonzaga Alum and Vatican Prefect

Dialogue in Action

AI generated image of woman looking forward with students having conversations in the background

Six Ways to Ease Election Anxiety

With the increasing intensity surrounding election season, Gonzaga turns to campus leaders and Ignatian values for tips to manage stress.

Danielle Cendejas smiles at the camera

In The Arena

Zag alum and political consultant Danielle Cendejas helps people navigate the tricky communication waters of modern political discourse.

Two side silhouettes, one on a blue background with a red lightbulb and one on a red background with a blue lightbulb and a lightbulb in between the two silhouettes

Dialogue in a Jesuit Context

A look at how two pieces of guidance, steeped in Jesuit tradition, can support us in conversing with our neighbors.

Navigating the aftermath of an election can be stressful. Find tips and student resources for taking care of yourself.
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"If we want to get things done with people who disagree with us, we have to have some idea of where they’re coming from, what they value.”
– Rebecca Donaway, Gonzaga Communication Studies Professor

Student volunteers spent Martin Luther King Jr. Day serving the greater Spokane community at The Salvation Army.

Civic Engagement

The Jesuits believe in faith that does justice. At Gonzaga, this means taking learning beyond the classroom to make a real-world impact. Each year our students put in over 87,000 hours of community engagement and service hours. Some of the many way students can get involved include:

"We must care about the other person at least as much as we care about the idea or viewpoint we want to express.”
– Kent Porterfield, Gonzaga Vice Provost for Student Affairs

international day of justice

Expressive Activity

Expressive activity is a broad term for public activities that communicate ideas. Examples include campaigning, marches, rallies, speeches, circling petitions, protests and demonstrations. Rooted in the Ignatian principles of dialogue and engagement, Gonzaga encourages students to express themselves, while also respecting those with differing views. A healthy exchange of ideas ensures the well-being and safety of the greater campus community. Before planning any type of expressive activity on campus, students should consult the guide below:

Zags Guide to Expressive Activity
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The following policies provide guidance and ensure our students, faculty and staff are are aware or their rights and responsibilities regarding expressive activity in the University context:

Additional information and guidelines can be found found in our Student Code of Conduct, Faculty Handbook, and Employee Policies and Procedures manual (myGU login required). 

Read More and Get Involved

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Students, Faculty and Staff:
Do you have an event, project or or activity you would like to feature here?

Let us know about guest speakers, class and club projects, “Get Out the Vote” drives – anything related to helping Gonzaga embrace community engagement and participate in thoughtful dialogue exemplifying GU’s mission to pursue truth and the common good. The information you provide will help determine how we might best incorporate and/or support your work.