Presented by the YMCA of the Triangle and the North Carolina Central University Office of Community Engagement & Service in partnership with the Triangle MLK Committee and the Durham MLK Committee. Sponsored by Wells Fargo.
The YMCA of the Triangle joins North Carolina Central University for the launch of NCCU’s seventh year of moderated conversations. This series brings students, community members and leaders together for courageous, intergenerational dialogue that strengthens community well-being. Rooted in reciprocity and mutual respect, these gatherings foster deep listening, shared learning and collaborative action.
This series, now in its seventh installment at North Carolina Central University, has fostered meaningful dialogue between students, faith leaders, and community members since its inception in 2018. The 2025-26 dialogue series begins in October 2025 and continues through spring 2026.
Next Chapter: 2025-26 Dialogues
October 30 | 6 – 8 p.m. (Doors open 5:30 p.m.)
NC Central University, School of Education Auditorium
- Welcome remarks from city, NCCU, YMCA leadership and Lightner Y Achievers
- Reflections on civic virtue, character education and shared responsibility from the Rev. Dr. Sterling Freeman, moderated by the Rev. Lisa Yebuah.
- Performance by the NCCU WPI Choir
- Reception and student-led, small-group dialogue (30 minutes)
Why It Matters
In a time of division and complexity, this series creates space to connect across differences, education and lived experience. Together, we will explore pressing issues such as public health, safety, economic opportunity, and belonging—always with a focus on inclusive, actionable solutions.
What to Expect
Each gathering will include moderated small-group conversations that promote respectful dialogue, skill-building in empathy and active listening, and opportunities to share personal stories and reflections.
Who Should Attend
All are welcome—students and elders, educators and faith leaders, business owners and nonprofit professionals and anyone committed to building stronger, healthier communities.
Intended Outcomes
This series aims to build trust across differences, strengthen civic and interpersonal dialogue skills, generate collaborative ideas to advance collective impact and cultivate a growing network of change agents committed to a shared future.