Tritons Together

Elaine Galinson / Joseph Glickman Campus Civility Program

A master class in inclusive communication

Differences in opinions, appearances, cultural beliefs or financial means can often make people in the same room feel worlds apart. For Elaine Galinson, teaching students how to bridge those differences creates community, facilitates necessary change and works to preserve the America she believes in.

In 2019, Elaine endowed the Galinson/Glickman Campus Civility Program, a partnership between UC San Diego and the San Diego-based National Conflict Resolution Center. Through the Department of Student Services, the program engages all principal members of UC San Diego’s more than 500 student organizations in The Art of Inclusive Communication training.

“I know that these students who receive the training will most likely become the leaders of whatever field they go on to. What they do professionally with their futures, and what they do with their progeny — this is the way that I really see this having a long-lasting impact.”

— Elaine Galinson

The program demonstrates how dialogue about conflict, while sometimes uncomfortable, ultimately leads to better understanding of others’ perspectives. Supporting increased empathy, inclusivity and civility and promoting community-building and social cohesion, the program asks us to explore and reevaluate our assumptions. “With conflict there is room for growth, resolution, development and opportunity,” said a member of the Multi-Asian Student Association.

Also known as Tritons Together, the Galinson/Glickman Campus Civility Program is shaping global citizens who respect the humanity of all individuals and act in ways that support diversity. Through Elaine’s generous support, generations of students will learn to celebrate differences and create places of belonging wherever they go.