'The 3 Degrees of Why: Moving Beyond Positions to the Stories That Shape Us' Oct. 20

As part of the fall 2026 Schemel Forum, a collaborative program with the Slattery Center for Ignatian Communities will feature culture strategist, dialogue facilitator and speaker Peace Ike.

A free presentation and discussion, "The 3 Degrees of Why: Moving Beyond Positions to the Stories That Shape Us," will be hosted on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 6 p.m. in Brennan Hall, Rose Room, 509.

Register today. 
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Moving Beyond Surface Disagreements

This interactive workshop introduces The 3 Degrees of Why, a framework that helps participants move beyond surface disagreement to understand the reasoning, values and stories that influence how people see the world.

In today’s polarized climate, conversations often stall at the level of positions—what people believe—without exploring the deeper layers that shape those beliefs. Through guided reflection and exercises, participants will explore how beliefs are formed, including the role of both lived experiences and the stories we encounter through the wider cultural and media landscape. By learning to recognize these deeper layers, participants will gain practical tools for engaging in difficult conversations with greater curiosity, discernment and understanding.

Ike works across both secular and faith-based spaces to build bridges and foster cultural transformation. In 2018, she launched a nonprofit organization, The Gathering Place Philly, a community engagement initiative promoting citywide shared meals and courageous conversations across differences. Today, she leads Set The Table Strategies and Unoffendable Life, providing relational skills support in both the workplace and the community.

Find additional details and register.  

The Schemel Forum provides cultural and enrichment and education in the community.