The Peace Initiative
If we can understand and find unity with others, then we can work together to solve problems.
This weeklong event brings in campus and community experts to explore practices for promoting peace and well-being. Techniques include yoga, mindfulness meditation, and gratitude. Join us as we use these approaches to cultivate peace within ourselves and address challenges in our community!
The Peace Inititiave typically takes place at the end of January, although for 2025 it's happening March 24th-28th. The upcoming event's schedule and ticketing information will be posted below.
The Peace Initiative is co-sponsored by the Department of Psychology and the Office of Student Wellness and Wellbeing.
Event Details
Check out the 2025 schedule of events and RSVP information below!
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2025 Event Schedule
Monday, March 24th:
- Community Transformation Circles, 5 to 7 pm, Robert Scott Small (RSS) Rm 249: Please join us for an opportunity to share personal stories in response to questions and prompts posed by experienced facilitators. The goal is to make new connections or deepen existing relationships, learn from each other’s stories and experiences, take time for self-reflection, practice the art of deep listening and expand our empathy and compassion
Tuesday, March 25th:
- Sound Bowl Meditation, 1 to 2 pm, Robert Scott Small (RSS) Rm 319: Meditate and resonate with the soothing sounds of a sound bowl. Recenter and reclaim your mind with this event!
- Mexico Border: Perception Versus Reality, 4 to 5:30 pm, Wells Fargo Auditorium: Join Gil Kerlikowske, former Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as he shares real-world examples and talks about border security.
Wednesday, March 26th:
- Neurographic Art Experience, 2 to 3:30 pm & 4 to 5:30 pm, Rita Hollings Science Center (RITA) Rm 101: Participants will learn how to create a unique piece of art while gaining valuable insight into the process of using art for personal reflection and stress reduction. This class encourages you to approach art with mindfulness and creativity, blending the cognitive with the emotional for a profound experience.
Thursday, March 27th
- Stress Relief Painting, 11 am to 2 pm, Rivers Green (behind Addlestone Library): Take a mindful study break! Stop by our table at Rivers Green and paint a mini canvas in nature! The Office of Student Wellness and Wellbeing will be sharing supplies and mindfulness tips.
- Awe Walk, 3:15 to 4 pm, Cistern Yard: Reconnect with nature and enjoy a walk on the beautiful and historic ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø campus.
Friday, March 28th
- Peace Parade with ECDC, 9:30 to 10:30 am, Cistern Yard: Join our own Early Childhood Development Center's Peace Parade to celebrate people, peace, and harmony!
- Meditation Retreat, 2 to 4 pm, Robert Scott Small (RSS) Rm 319: Unwind from the week with a calming meditation retreat. Refocus, recenter, and rejuvenate!
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RSVP
Meet the Organizer!
Peace Initiative organizer and psychology faculty member Rhonda Swickert, Ph.D. guides readers into her research and the practice of mindful meditation in this feature story from the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø Magazine.