Bridging Perspectives: A Dialogue Workshop on Navigating Political Conversations
Dates: January 30, 2026
Meets: F from 9:00 AM to 12 N
Location: Sunny Slope Annex
Cost: $0.00
There is only one opening remaining at this time.
There is only one opening remaining at this time.
Please note: this course requires membership in 2025-26 WINTER OLLI Unlimited Courses or 2025-26 OLLI All-Inclusive (Annual Membership + Unlimited Fall, Winter & Spring Courses) or 2025-26 OLLI WINTER Single Course Only or 2025-26 OLLI All-Inclusive Plus (Annual Membership + Unlimited Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer)
Bridging Perspectives: A Dialogue Workshop on Navigating Political Conversations
Instructor: Kate Smith
Friday, January 30 | 9:00–12:00 pm | Sunny Slope Annex
Does talking about politics stress you out? Difficulty discussing divisive topics can create strain on relationships, while increasing political polarization impacts emotional well-being and community connection. This interactive workshop provides a supportive space to explore how we communicate across political and ideological divides. Participants will examine common thinking patterns that contribute to polarization and learn evidence-based skills for listening, speaking, and engaging in dialogue that builds understanding rather than conflict.
About the Instructor:
Kate Smith, MA, is a graduate student in Clinical Psychology–Gero at The University of Alabama. Her dissertation research focuses on improving communication and reducing stress associated with political conversations among older adults.
Note: This workshop is part of the instructor’s dissertation research. Participation in optional surveys is voluntary and not required for workshop attendance. Priority registration will be given to new participants who have not previously completed this workshop.
Instructor: Kate Smith
Friday, January 30 | 9:00–12:00 pm | Sunny Slope Annex
Does talking about politics stress you out? Difficulty discussing divisive topics can create strain on relationships, while increasing political polarization impacts emotional well-being and community connection. This interactive workshop provides a supportive space to explore how we communicate across political and ideological divides. Participants will examine common thinking patterns that contribute to polarization and learn evidence-based skills for listening, speaking, and engaging in dialogue that builds understanding rather than conflict.
About the Instructor:
Kate Smith, MA, is a graduate student in Clinical Psychology–Gero at The University of Alabama. Her dissertation research focuses on improving communication and reducing stress associated with political conversations among older adults.
Note: This workshop is part of the instructor’s dissertation research. Participation in optional surveys is voluntary and not required for workshop attendance. Priority registration will be given to new participants who have not previously completed this workshop.
| Fee: | $0.00 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3.00 |
Sunny Slope Annex
102 Kimberly DriveAuburn University, AL 36849
Kate Smith
