Civility in the Workplace: Why It Matters More Than Ever

Civility isn’t just about holding doors or saying “please” and “thank you”—it’s about how we show respect, value others’ perspectives, and foster collaboration, especially in the workplace. With hybrid teams, diverse workforces, and fast-paced demands, maintaining a civil environment can make or break a company’s culture. Here’s why civility at work isn’t optional—it’s essential: 1….

Civility Is Not Agreement—It’s Respect: Founders Featured on SideBar Podcast

What does civility mean in a world of noise, division, and outrage? For Institute for Civility co-founders Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath, civility is more than just manners—it’s the foundation for meaningful change. In their recent feature on the SideBar podcast, they reflect on their 30-year journey advocating for civility in schools, workplaces, and government….

Building Bridges: How Civility Training is Transforming Workplaces and Communities

Building Bridges: How Civility Training is Transforming Workplaces and Communities

In today’s polarized climate, civility training is becoming increasingly crucial for fostering respectful and effective communication in diverse settings. The Institute for Civility is seeing a surge in requests for our programs as political, racial, gender, religious, and generational differences continue to spill over into the workplace. Organizations across various sectors—businesses, educational institutions, government bodies, and more—are seeking…

Inspiring the Next Generation: Our Student Legislative Seminar

Inspiring the Next Generation: Our Student Legislative Seminar

From June 1-6, the Institute for Civility proudly led its second Student Legislative Seminar of 2024, featuring enthusiastic students from Palacios and Wharton, TX high schools. Both schools have been valued participants in our program for many years, and this session was no exception in terms of impact and engagement. Despite the summer heat and…

Students from Texas City High School on the steps of the U.S. Capitol during a 2024 Student Legislative Seminar

Beyond the Classroom: Texas City High’s Empowering Experience at Student Legislative Seminar

March 2-7 saw twelve students and three teacher chaperones from Texas City High School in Washington, DC for one of the Institute’s Student Legislative Seminars.  This is the 13th time Texas City has participated in this program, and with chaperones who have experienced the trip before on hand with us again, the trip just keeps…

The Institute for Civility Unveils Refreshed Brand Identity

The Institute for Civility Unveils Refreshed Brand Identity

Same Mission, New Name The Institute for Civility in Government has simplified our name to the Institute for Civility. Our mission remains steadfast: to facilitate dialogue, teach respect, and build civility in both the public and private spheres. Our vision is to see a day when civility is the norm for all of us where…

Institute for Civility Hosts Student Legislative Seminar June 3-8

June 3-8 found us back in DC – this time with students from Palacios High School (TX) and Wharton High School (TX). This student trip was underwritten by two area foundations who like to focus their support on their local communities. It is through the generosity of these organizations that we have been able to…