Drake University Hosts Campus Political Civility Teach-in

Students and faculty gathered in Des Moines to explore methods for improving interpersonal communication.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in College Life

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring two empty wooden chairs facing each other, symbolizing open dialogue and campus political civility. — Drake University students and faculty gathered in Des Moines for a teach-in event focused on prioritizing curiosity to improve political civility on campus. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe open-minded conversations are the most effective way to improve political civility?

Drake University recently hosted a teach-in event focused on fostering political civility among the student body. The session encouraged attendees to prioritize curiosity in discussions as a response to divisive national rhetoric.

Why it matters

Student leaders organized the event because they believe negative social media habits and heated national political discourse have hindered constructive dialogue on campus. They aim to replace combative exchanges with a focus on mutual understanding.

A social media post regarding Charlie Kirk and the College Republicans garnered 400 upvotes. Organizers noted that engaged participants currently represent approximately 10% of the student population.

The players

Drake University

This private university located in Des Moines, Iowa, serves as a hub for academic programming and campus leadership initiatives.

Robert D. and Billie Ray Center

This center works to promote civility and ethical leadership through various community and educational programs.

The details

The event included panels featuring both faculty and students, moderated by the director of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center. Students advocated for a shift toward asking questions rather than attempting to change others' minds during political debates.

Drake University hosted the political civility teach-in event on October 23, 2026.

Culture Shift

This event aligns with the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center's civility initiatives, which provide a framework for navigating political disagreements. It marks a departure from typical campus conflict by prioritizing structured dialogue over traditional debate models.

Students and residents in Des Moines may see an increase in programming designed to facilitate cross-group connections. These initiatives are intended to change how individuals approach daily conversations and resolve interpersonal conflicts on campus.

The takeaway

Approaching political conversations with genuine curiosity rather than an intent to debate can help reduce tension. Students are encouraged to focus on building personal connections to bridge ideological divides.