The Center for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPCS) at Wayne State University celebrates its 50th anniversary on Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the McGregor Memorial Conference Center, in Detroit.
As one of the nation’s first and foremost programs to teach about and seek solutions for war, social violence, and intractable conflicts, CPCS will introduce the commemorative year and its strategic vision going forward, focused on the theme of reconciliation at the global, national and local level, a theme of utmost importance in today’s world.
Over the past six months, planning task forces comprising 90 people, from both the community and campus, have held 18 meetings to map out these new initiatives. A dual focus on academics (student degrees and programs as well as research) and community engagement distinguishes its mission for the future. President M. Roy Wilson, Provost Margaret Winters and Victor Green, director of community relations will be in attendance to commemorate historical and future endeavors of the Center. In addition, CPCS students as well as alumni will describe their careers, and constituents will join the celebration to commemorate the occasion.
During the coming year the Center plans feature lectures by Doctors Without Borders physician and Ebola survivor Dr. Craig Spencer (WSU alumnus) in February; award winning documentary film maker on women’s peace movements, Abigail Disney, in March; and conferences on public policy dispute resolution, police-community relations and other key national and international conflict challenges.
Frederic Pearson, director of the Center For Peace and Conflict Studies, notes: “This is a very exciting moment where we can look back on distinguished historical achievements but also look forward to new initiatives in areas such as science and peace, Environmental and public policy dispute resolution, youth violence reduction and international/inter-ethnic understanding. The Center’s long historical commitment to community outreach and engagement will be sustained going forward in Detroit’s re-emergence.”
A 50th Anniversary Year Kickoff celebration is scheduled today from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the McGregor Memorial Conference Center. For more information or to RSVP, visit the WSU events calendar.