CofC Highlights Impact of Civil Discourse at Winthrop Roundtable

The College of Charleston reaffirmed its commitment to thoughtful dialogue with the 2025 Winthrop Roundtable, an evening dedicated to the importance of civil discourse.

Hosted by the College’s Friends of the Library and the Civility Initiative at the historic Francis Marion Hotel, the roundtable brought together 125 guests, including students, faculty, community leaders and several members of the College of Charleston Board of Trustees and Foundation Board.

“In a time when meaningful discourse is more important than ever, the Winthrop Roundtable encourages respectful dialogue and thoughtful conversation – principles that align seamlessly with the mission of our Libraries, the Civility Initiative and the College,” said Steve Osborne ‘73, Foundation Board member and Friends of the Library Board chairman, in his opening remarks.

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Alexander Heffner, host of PBS’ The Open Mind, the longest-running public television show in American history. Drawing upon his work championing reasoned debate and good faith conversations, Heffner emphasized the need for respectful disagreement, reminding roundtable guests that democracy depends not on consensus alone, but also on a willingness to listen.

“Civic engagement is about sustaining conversations that challenge us without dehumanizing us,” Heffner said, citing historical moments when Americans navigated intense ideological divides. Throughout his keynote, Heffner urged today’s citizens to reclaim that same spirit of mutual respect.

In the ensuing Q&A, Heffner offered suggestions for how to foster productive discussions across political and social lines, reflecting attendees’ desire for dialogue over division.

For the College of Charleston, the event was more than just a lecture – it was a reaffirmation of the institution’s role as a space for open exchange. In an era where words often divide, the evening served as a powerful reminder that they can also unite.

“At the heart of the roundtable – and indeed, at the heart of our Libraries and Civility Initiative – are individuals who believe in the power of ideas and the willingness to engage in the sometimes messy, but always important work of understanding one another,” says College of Charleston President Andrew T. Hsu.