The American Democracy Project at Pennsylvania Western University will present a series of panel discussions throughout the spring semester focusing on critical issues in the United States.

By holding a variety of public forums and panel presentations, the nonpartisan initiative promotes active, involved citizens across the PennWest campuses.

"The programming tackles crucial issues facing our nation,” said Dr. Laura Tuennerman, director of the American Democracy Project at PennWest. “These engaging discussions aim to empower students and community members to become informed and active participants in shaping our democracy."

Spring 2025 events, which kick off Feb. 19, will explore public land access, civic engagement and the impact of social media.

Engaging Communities: Creating Respectful Access and Opportunity on Public Lands
Date/Time: Wednesday, Feb. 19, at noon
Location: Duda Hall room 103, California campus, or online via Zoom
Description: A panel of PennWest University faculty members, including Drs. Kyle Fredrick and Robert Whyte, professors in the Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences Department, and Dr. Clarissa Confer, a professor in the Criminal Justice, History and Politics Department, will address conflicts over public lands and management of competing but often equally legitimate positions over public resources.

“Join or Die”: A Film Screening and Panel Discussion
Date/Time: Thursday, April 10, from 6-8 p.m.
Location: Hart Chapel, Clarion Campus
Description: ADP and the PennWest Libraries will present a documentary screening of “Join or Die,” a film about the importance of engagement, followed by an expert panel discussion. Drs. Kevan Yenerall and Laura Tuennerman, professors in PennWest’s Criminal Justice, History and Politics Department, will explore threats to American democracy and solutions for moving forward.

Ask an Expert: Social Media and Extremism
Date/Time: Monday, April 7, at noon
Location: Duda Hall room 202, California campus, and online via Zoom
Description: Drs. Jane Walsh and Jeffrey Tienes, faculty members in PennWest’s  Social Work, Sociology and Human Services Department, will discuss their research on social media and extremism.

The goal of the American Democracy Project is to produce graduates who are committed to being engaged in their communities.