Open Discourse Coalition launches...

LEWISBURG — Open Discourse Coalition announced the creation of the Voltaire Prize, a new award recognizing individuals who go above and beyond to advance the free exchange of ideas.Voltaire Prize is an opportunity to shine a light on the positive change happening in higher education and to celebrate champions of civil discourse.The governing board selected co-founder and CEO Charles Mitchell as the inaugural recipient in recognition of his long-standing commitment to civil discourse.“Charles has devoted himself to creating spaces where students feel empowered to listen, speak and truly engage in rigorous, civil discourse,” Susan Crawford, chair of the Open Discourse Coalition board, said. “His passion for open dialogue has been the driving force behind ODC’s growth and impact.”Mitchell’s leadership is evident in ODC’s expanding programming, his personal engagement with the Bucknell and Lewisburg communities, and his efforts to connect people to the organization’s mission.Open Discourse Coalition is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes a variety of intellectual viewpoints and open, civil discourse at Bucknell University and beyond.— THE DAILY ITEM