How do our identities and lived experiences shape how we see and relate to one another? Diagloue is about building awareness and facilitating conversations that help us move through a complex world together.
Grounded in learning for social justice and embodying the Franciscan Values. Our Damietta Dialogue Program adapted from the Skidmore Model helps students become confident leaders and change agents.
In the foundations of dialogue program, students and siena community members grapple with identity, study systems of power, and explore dialogue as a tool for social justice, professional communication and maintaining healthy relationships with ourselves and others. Through interactive programs, courses and training, they connect what they study to real-life practice. A hallmark of the program is our capstone, in which Damietta Advocates facilitate a semester-long dialogue experience with their peers through the facilitation of in class workshops and campus wide Cafe Damietta.
The Dialogue Facilitation Program is applicable to any career path — from teaching to business, law, social work, and the arts. It is especially suited for careers that require communication across differences.
Get to know Multicultural Studies & Associate Teaching Professor Lisa Nevarez , Lecturer Anne Glynn and Tamara McCallum to find out how the Foundations of Dialogue and Intergroup Dialogue builds confidence, leadership, relationships and understanding.
As a commuter student, Talia Narzymski '26 found more than a place to spend time between classes, she found a community at the Damietta Center. Through her work-study role as Training Operations Manager, Talia discovered opportunities to challenge herself, build meaningful relationships, and grow as a leader.
From developing leadership trainings and coordinating campus events to organizing teams and facilitating dialogue, Talia gained the confidence and skills to make a lasting impact on the Siena community. Her experience at the Damietta Center not only strengthened her leadership abilities but also inspired her commitment to empowering others through collaboration, communication, and service.
For Social Work major Alyssa Blanco ’24 LMSW, Siena's IGR course deepened her understanding of complex societal issues and her own identity. This transformative experience which guided her to find the best pathway for her career.
Spring 2025 inaugural Cohort 1 dialogue trained students showing off their certificates
Returning CA's role play how to mediate roommate conflict during summer CA training.
2025 Orientation Leaders prepare for the incoming saints by practicing dialogue
Damietta Advocates are practicing the game of Enlightenment
Damietta Advocate Daniel Montilla '26 training folks in forum theater
The Bonners Program participated in the Game of Enlightenment during 2025 Summer Gear Up
High school Students practicing their communication skills to prepare for the professional world