Apply for a paid Fellowship with the Braver Campus Conversation program!

UMW Students participating in the Braver Campus Conversations (BCC) Fellowship will learn more about the Braver Campus Conversations model of civil discourse, and will serve as a role model for others students as we practice civil discourse on our campus. The Braver Campus Conversations debate model is a non-competitive, participatory exercise designed to foster civil discourse and deep listening on controversial topics. Rather than trying to “win” an argument, participants engage in a collective search for truth, addressing remarks through a neutral chair to reduce hostility and personal attacks. The debates are facilitated by a moderator (chair) and use light parliamentary procedure.

Application

Please apply by Oct. 2nd by 5:00 p.m.  Application Form Link

Skills Gained from the Fellowship: 

  • Active listening
  • Public speaking
  • Understanding effective communication models
  • Civil discourse
Student speaking into a microphone

Responsibilities:

  • Fellows are required to participate in UMW-sponsored BCC debates on campus (up to 2 per semester) and other events (mark your calendar):
    • Fall 2026
      • November 18, 5:30-8:30; Lee Hall; topic: data centers
        • Co-sponsored with the UMW Center for AI and the Liberal Arts
        • Fellows will prepare opening statements, help facilitate the discussion, etc. 
      • Debate at the statehouse, Friday October 23rd in Richmond (optional) ~12:00-6:00pm
      • Oct. 6: Debate at Germanna Community College, time TBD
    • Spring 2027
      • Attend at least 2 campus debates
Other Requirements:
  • Enroll in a 1-credit class about the Braver Campus Conversations in spring 2027 – Fridays at 2:00.
  • Must attend weekly meetings in the fall; be an ambassador for the BCC program; recruit participants for the spring class; help classes on campus practice the BCC model.

Compensation: 

  • BCC Fellows will receive a total of $1,500 (minus FICA) over the academic year
    • One payment will be in Dec. 2026, one payment in May 2027 contingent on participation.
    • Applicants will be chosen after an interview process.