Wildcat Dialogues Frequently Asked Questions

Wildcat Dialogues is one of K-State's signature intercultural learning events for all new students.

During Wildcat Dialogues, students gather to:

1) Learn the importance of engaging in meaningful dialogues

2) Learn tools to engage in dialogue about our cultural similarities and differences

3) Strategize and act to create a community of belonging at K-State

Students will engage in a small group of around 10, led by a student, faculty or staff facilitator.

The fall 2021 event will take place virtually, rather than in person, due to the health and safety guidelines around COVID-19. Registered students will receive an email before the event with information about how to join their Zoom session.

Students will be guided through an experience that follows the theme of “My Story - Your Story - Our Story,” as we seek to create a community of belonging for all at K-State.

• My Story: Recognize the ways in which your cultural and social identities make an impact on how you see and experience the world.
• Your Story: Recognize the ways in which others’ cultural and social identities differ from your own and how they see and experience the world differently, like you.
• Our Story: Demonstrate authentic curiosity and empathy when engaging in meaningful dialogues across difference.
• Our Story: Identify tangible action steps you can take to create a community of belonging for all at K-State.

We know that every human has a culture - we each have social and cultural identities, including other constructs such as race, class, gender, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, and more - that shape how we see and experience the world. As individuals come to K-State with varied identities, it takes intentional effort to come together as a K-State community and create a community of belonging for all. Wildcat Dialogues is a space to begin intentional building of cross-cultural relationships through vital and meaningful dialogues. We do this to develop, empower, and equip leaders who can navigate a global society with authentic curiosity, empathy and confidence.

Students’ participation in this event during the first semester sets the expectation for all Wildcats to be part of a respectful campus community that recognizes diverse perspectives and identities. This event is an opportunity to bring K-State’s Principles of Community into practice. Cultural competence is rated as one of the top 5 skills employers are looking for in new graduates. Cultural competence and civility help us engage as a community of global citizens.

Yes, students need to complete an RSVP by Sept. 8, 2021. The Wildcat Dialogues committee members will build out small groups and communicate with facilitators and students about the event.

All new students are encouraged to participate! Please RSVP by Sept. 8, 2021.

Each of the fall 2021 virtual sessions will last about two hours. Participants are asked to select one time that best fits their schedule. The schedule can be found online.

Trained faculty, staff and upper-class student volunteers will serve as dialogue guides to lead your group through dialogue. Dialogue guides should help create a welcoming space for all students to engage in dialogue and sharing about their lived experiences. Sign up to be a facilitator here.

• Watch for announcements about Wildcat “Mini-Dialogues” for more opportunities to expand your experiences.
• If you live in If you live in a Residence Hall, talk to your RA about on-going conversations and learning opportunities. For more information, visit their website.
• If you want to volunteer to expand your intercultural experiences, do not hesitate to connect with Tamara Bauer, tamara@ksu.edu or Debra Bolton, dbolton@ksu.edu to become involved.
• Attend one of UPC’s many Multi-cultural Events and Programs. For more details, visit their website.
  
• Visit Diversity and Multicultural Student Affairs to learn about workshops, events, and multicultural student organizations. Also, check out events from K-State First Book.