New Learning Initiative Aims to Unite Americans Across Divisive Issues

On October 27, 2025, the Convergence Center for Policy Resolution (Convergence), in collaboration with its partners, the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley and the Constructive Dialogue Institute, has introduced a pioneering program called Convergence Compass. This initiative is designed to prepare individuals from diverse backgrounds to effectively navigate differences, foster meaningful relationships, and collaboratively tackle challenging issues.

Overview of the Convergence Compass Program

The Convergence Compass program is specifically aimed at leaders in various sectors, including higher education, business, government, and community organizations. It is available as a self-paced online course or as a collaborative experience through cohort participation, with options for one-on-one coaching as well. This multifaceted approach allows learners to engage at their own pace while also benefiting from group dynamics and personalized guidance.

Mariah Levison, CEO and President of Convergence, emphasizes the importance of this program in a time when polarization and discord are prevalent. ``Convergence has been successfully bringing people together to address seemingly intractable issues across divides for over a decade. It's crucial that we share our proven methodologies to help heal divisions and tackle pressing challenges in our country and communities,'' she states.

Promoting Kindness and Connection

Allison Briscoe-Smith, a Senior Fellow at the Greater Good Science Center, highlights that the work of the center focuses on shifting cultural norms towards kindness and compassion. According to her, ''Convergence Compass allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others, equipping them with skills to engage in difficult conversations, build relationships, and bridge divides.''

Moreover, Mylien Duong, Vice President of Research and Innovation at the Constructive Dialogue Institute, underscores their dedication to providing evidence-based tools that facilitate constructive engagement across differences. She expressed excitement about collaborating on this program, which integrates scientific research on conflict resolution with practical tools participants can apply immediately.

Support from the New Pluralists Collaborative

The launch of the Convergence Compass program is made possible thanks to the support from the New Pluralists Collaborative, an initiative under the auspices of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. Lauren Higgins, Director of Ecosystem Strategies at New Pluralists, noted, ``We're investing in people, organizations, and ideas that embody pluralism in communities across the U.S. The Convergence Compass is a vital component of this growing ecosystem, contributing to a collaborative future.''

Interactive Webinar Launch Event

To accompany the launch, the partners are hosting an interactive webinar on October 28, which will provide participants with a hands-on preview of the program's practical strategies. Attendees will walk away equipped with actionable skills they can use in their everyday lives, emphasizing the program's real-world applicability.

About Convergence Compass

Convergence Compass is unique in its approach, combining the understanding of the factors that drive division with evidence-based strategies for effective dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Developed collaboratively by Convergence, the Constructive Dialogue Institute, and UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, the curriculum promotes critical thinking and engagement in vast array of issues present in today’s society. The program can be taken as a standalone course or as part of a group with instructor-led sessions designed to reinforce learning and application of skills in real-world settings. Through this initiative, participants are given the opportunity to enhance their dialogue competencies and work toward a more united and understanding society.