Listening Tables - Incite at Columbia University

Listening Tables emerged in late summer 2024 as a faculty-led initiative to foster dialogue and understanding across Columbia University's campus during a time of deep division.

The project introduces a new model for navigating conflicts, built on principles of mutual respect, empathy, and a commitment to rebuilding trust.

Since its launch, the initiative has hosted more than 50 sessions, bringing together diverse voices from across the Columbia community. Participants have included students, alumni, faculty, administrators, and senior leadership—with President Armstrong and Provost Olinto among those facilitating conversations.

The tables create unique opportunities for connection, bringing together individuals who might otherwise never interact to share their perspectives and experiences. Each session's topics emerge organically from participants' interests, ranging from the war in Gaza and campus protests to discussions about free speech, the upcoming presidential election, and the future of democracy.

Listening Tables continues to evolve as an experimental space where members of the Columbia community can engage in meaningful dialogue and trust-building, one conversation at a time.

Get involved

To volunteer at a Listening Table, host your own, or visit the Trust Collaboratory website.