The University of Pittsburgh hosted “Navigating the Information Landscape: A Civic Fluency Forum” on April 20, bringing together students, faculty, and staff to discuss challenges and opportunities in civic discourse. The event was held in partnership with Citizens and Scholars and focused on future cross-campus engagement.
Chancellor Joan Gabel addressed attendees, highlighting the importance of civic discourse as a university priority. She referenced Pitt’s early involvement in signing the Campus Call for Free Expression, its collaboration with Citizens and Scholars, and her participation in the College Presidents for Civic Preparedness. Gabel said, “We’re deeply committed to this being a structural part of who we are, a systemic part of who we are. There is a different nuance, in my opinion, between saying ‘let’s figure out how we can disagree’ to then saying, ‘what do we do about it?’”
Since designating 2023-25 as the Years of Discourse and Dialogue, Pitt has worked to foster respectful conversations across campus. Dean Carissa Slotterback from the School of Public and International Affairs said at the forum that efforts have broadened campus-wide: “We’ve worked really broadly across the campus to be able to continue to advance this work. As the work has continued to grow and evolve, we’re diving into today with a new, interesting and compelling framing for this work: elevating our intentions to enhance civic fluency.”
Cathy Copeland from Citizens and Scholars defined “civic fluency” during her keynote speech as assessing information accurately and forming evidence-based opinions—an ability she described as essential amid rising misinformation concerns. Provost Joseph McCarthy said these skills are central at Pitt: “Whether it be in classrooms, co-curricular experiences or community partnerships, Pitt builds the habits and skills that enable thoughtful engagement across difference.”
A student panel discussed difficulties identifying false content online due to generative artificial intelligence. Patrick Ryan noted that even skilled individuals face challenges given high volumes of misleading material: “Even if you’re good at catching misinformation…you’re going to see something that you don’t really realize is AI generated.” Cole Belling added that Pitt empowers students while they form their ideals about civic discourse.
Faculty member Samuel Woolley observed that many students want more information about available opportunities for engagement both within academia and beyond traditional careers: “Students are engaged…But they need help to know where they can do that thing.” Vice Provost Adam Lee compared practical experience with theory by referencing hockey coaching: “It’s one thing to sit down and run a play on a whiteboard; it’s another thing to do it when somebody’s trying to check you into the boards.”
The forum highlighted ongoing efforts by Pitt leadership—and its partners—to prepare students for meaningful participation in public dialogue.
