Greenfield Community College will host Bridging Generations: A Civic Engagement Conference on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the GCC Dining Commons. This intergenerational event will bring together students, community members and local leaders for a dynamic half-day of dialogue, learning and connection.

At a time when civic life can feel increasingly divided, the conference invites participants to explore how defining cultural and historical moments have shaped our worldviews and civic engagement. Through shared conversation and interactive learning, the event aims to strengthen understanding and build civic trust across generations in rural communities.

The morning will feature a panel discussion, From Woodstock to TikTok: How History Shapes Our Worldviews, where participants from diverse generations will reflect on pivotal political and cultural moments, from the moon landing to social media movements, and how they influence perspectives today. The panel will also highlight the importance of curiosity, listening and shared purpose in building stronger, more connected communities.

Following the panel, attendees will participate in guided lunch conversations before choosing from a series of interactive workshops designed to foster respectful dialogue and critical thinking:

• Yes, We Should Talk About Religion and Politics: Tools for Brave, Respectful Conversations in a Divided Time, led by Dr. Linda McCarthy and Dr. Judy Raper, will offer practical strategies for engaging in meaningful conversations across differences, emphasizing listening, curiosity and connection.
• Media Literacy: Strategies for Finding Solid Information Online, led by librarian and archivist Claire Lobdell, will explore how filter bubbles and confirmation bias shape the information we consume, and provide tools for evaluating sources and identifying misinformation.
• Building Empathy for Real-World Change, led by Meckenzie Sarage and GCC student leader Leilani Aires, will focus on empathy as a skill that can be developed and applied to strengthen relationships, civic engagement and social change.

The conference is free for students, with a suggested $10 donation for community members. Participants are welcome to attend the full event or drop in for individual sessions. RSVP is requested.

For more information or to RSVP, please visit the GCC events page.