The CASE Framework: Applying a Holistic Response to Free Speech and Inclusion on Campus
In an attempt to foster an environment that cultivates inclusion and maintains free speech, institutions of higher learning have encountered formidable challenges. These challenges often result in tense moments and conflicts in and out of the classroom. Many believe that fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging on college campuses has the potential to curtail freedom of expression. In the long run, this lack of understanding can erode the public trust in higher education. While there is no single solution, having strategies available that universities can choose from can help to harmonize the principles of inclusion and free speech. In response to these challenges, PEN America has created the CASE framework, a structured approach for responding to campus tensions involving free speech and inclusion. It outlines challenges, reflection questions, and strategies that enable campus leaders to have a holistic response to campus incidents where free speech and inclusion might be at odds.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand and articulate the components of the CASE framework and its application on campus free speech and inclusion.
- Identify a systematic and organized approach to responding to campus tensions.
- Employ guidance and direction for designing educational programs and professional development opportunities focused on responding to campus tensions.
Kristen Shahverdian
Senior Manager, Free Expression & Education
PEN America
Kristen Shahverdian is the senior program manager of free expression and education at PEN America, developing campus engagements and public events related to free expression and education. After a decade in dance and choreography, she began researching best practices for participatory art projects and how to teach art that depicts violence and traumatic events. She previously served as a project manager for the Philadelphia Folklore Project, and facilitated workshops on trauma and art at the College Art Association and Dance Studies Association. She is also a writer and editor at the online dance journal thINKingDANCE.
Before joining PEN America, she was a senior lecturer at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and previously was an adjunct professor at Rowan University and Temple University. She received her BA in history and dance from Hamilton College, her MFA in dance from Temple University, and her MA in socially engaged art from Moore College of Art & Design.
Continuing Education Credits
NASPA has been approved by the Higher Education Consortium for Student Affairs Certification to provide CE credit for Certified Student Affairs Educators (CSAEd). NASPA is solely responsible for all aspects of this program.
Participants who view this session will be eligible for Continuing Education (CE) credits in the Core Student Affairs Educator Certification (CSAEd™) continuing education.
Guidelines for earning CE credit:
1.5 CE is awarded for attending this live session OR watching it on-demand for ONE category of Continuing Education. You can not receive more than 1.5 credit hour total.
No partial credit will be rewarded.
Participants must also complete the feedback survey in the Online Learning Community.
Reach out to virtuallearning@naspa.org for the continuing education certificate for Social Justice and Inclusion.
To receive CSAEd credit, attendees must complete the feedback survey that offers the certification in each session. Once you have attended all the live sessions or watched the on-demand sessions for which you would like to request credit, visit the Continuing Education (CE) website to fill out the Student Affairs Education Certification Request Form for all the sessions. All certificants must fill out one for the live session and a separate one for the on-demand sessions.
Visit the Continued Education (CE) website to learn more regarding
