Race, Nation, & Conflict

During 2018-19, for the first time, Arts & Sciences offered programming and events built around a common theme. Our strategic plan, Concept 30, identified building community as a priority, and this programming provided the opportunity to build interdisciplinary collaboration, foster creativity, and brought our entire community of learners together to discuss a shared topic.

In it's first year, "Contested Spaces" focused on "Race, Nation, and Conflict," inviting conversations centered around conflict resulting from ethnic, racial, and cultural differences—in Virginia, the United States, and across the globe. The theme of "Contested Spaces" aligns with our values of community, deep inquiry, self-awareness, equity & justice, and ethical stewardship, allowing us to contemplate these values in the world, our nation, and on our campus.