You are here: American University Student Affairs Student Belonging Intergroup Dialogue
Contact Us
Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm
Mary Graydon Student Center, Room 329 on a map
Center for Student Belonging 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016 United States
Our mission is to empower college students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become impactful peer educators. Through our signature program, IMPACT Circles, we foster an inclusive excellence environment built on dialogue, respect, and mutual support. Together, we create a supportive network of advocates who facilitate meaningful conversations and contribute to a positive campus culture. Guided by the values of Innovative Mentorship, Peer Advocacy, Collaboration, and Training (I.M.P.A.C.T), we are committed to ensuring every student feels heard, seen, and supported in their academic journey. Join us in building a community where dialogue leads to understanding and growth.
Mission:
To empower college students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become effective peer educators, fostering a campus environment that values dialogue, inclusive excellence, and mutual respect. We aim to create a supportive network of peer educators who can facilitate meaningful conversations, advocate for their peers and contribute to a positive and welcoming campus culture.
Vision:
To cultivate a thriving community of peer educators who are committed to upholding the values of IMPACT--Innovative Mentorship, Peer Advocacy, Collaboration and Training. Our vision is to establish a campus-wide culture where students feel suported, and where dialogue, understanding are foundations of our community interactions.
Values:
IMPACT Innovative Mentorship, Peer Advocacy, Collaboration, and Training
This resource is “open to all” and participation is not limited based on any individual’s personal identity or characteristics, including but not limited to race, color, national origin (or shared ancestry), religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.
IMPACT CIRCLES (Intragroup and Intergroup dialogues)
IMPACT Circles are small dialogue facilitated by peer educators within the CSB Dialogue Peer Educator Academy that promote both intragroup and intergroup dialogues to foster understanding and inclusivity on campus.
- Intragroup dialogues focus on conversations within a specific identity or affinity group, allowing participants to explore shared experiences, challenges, and perspectives in a safe and supportive environment. These discussions help deepen self-awareness and strengthen connections within the group.
- Intergroup dialogues bring together individuals from different identity groups to engage in open and respectful conversations about social identities, power dynamics, and systemic issues. The goal is to increase mutual understanding, reduce biases, and promote collaboration across differences.
IMPACT Circles emphasize Innovative Mentorship, Peer Advocacy, Collaboration, and Training, ensuring all voices are heard in both types of dialogue.
Apply to a Be Peer Educator
Become a Peer Educator with the CSB Dialogue Peer Educator Academy!
Are you passionate about fostering inclusivity, dialogue, and mutual respect on campus? Join us as a Peer Educator and make a lasting impact by facilitating meaningful conversations and supporting your peers. You'll develop leadership skills, advocate for inclusivity, and help to continue to creating a positive campus environment.
We currently have one open position for a Federal Work-Study (FWS) student. If you're eligible for FWS and interested in making a difference, we encourage you to apply today! Be a part of the change—help us build a more connected and supportive community.
(Applications are open for Fall 2026)
What is Dialogue? An AUx Video led by CSB
Danielle Koon, Assoc. Director answers:
- What is dialogue?
- What are ways to engage in dialogue?
- What role does positionality have in dialogue?
- How are dialogue and self-reflection anti-racist practices?
CSB Throwback to "Dialogue For U"
And we are STILL offering Dialogues for AU. Take a look at our throwback video!
Invite us for a visit to your class, office, club to learn how the Dialogue IMPACT Circles fosters inclusivity through impactful, dialogue. Discover how we continue to create positive change on campus!