Frederick Community College (FCC), in partnership with the six Rotary Clubs of Frederick County and the Maryland chapter of Braver Angels, will host a community Peace Forum titled “Courageous Conversations: Speak Your Peace” on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Cougar Café of the FCC Student Center.

This free, public interactive forum will explore how listening and communication practices can foster understanding across differences. Attendees will engage in meaningful dialogue, practice civil discourse skills, and discover tools that can strengthen relationships within families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and the broader community.

“We are proud to partner with Rotary and Braver Angels to create a space where students and community members can connect with respect and curiosity,” said Dr. Adriana Rojas, FCC Interim Associate Vice President for Engagement and Belonging. Rojas added, “We recognize that people arrive with rich perspectives and experiences, offering an opportunity to deepen leadership skills, such as active listening and engaging across differences. Belonging is built through conversations that invite different points of view and honor the dignity of every person at our table.”

FCC’s MOSAIC (Making Our Spaces An Inclusive Community) Center regularly engages in Courageous Conversations that underscore the College's commitment to productive dialogue about difficult topics and creating a sense of belonging for all. This initiative strengthens student leadership development and provides opportunities to understand differences in a supportive, guided space. The partnership with Rotary and Braver Angels furthers these commitments and extends their reach to the broader community.

Braver Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to depolarizing American communities, will help guide participants through structured conversation techniques that encourage curiosity, reflection, and understanding—especially across political, cultural, and ideological divides. The Rotary Clubs of Frederick County, whose service efforts focus on building peace and strengthening communities, join as key partners in this event, which is being held during Rotary International’s World Peace and Understanding Month.

Registration is encouraged to assist with planning. Community members are encouraged to attend this free event.

For more information, please contact Dr. Adriana Rojas at 301.624.2790 or [email protected].

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