Saluting Nanette Ward and her "Let's Talk, Columbia" efforts

Nanette Ward, a human rights investigator and educator with the city of Columbia, Missouri, is  resigning her position. Ward led the city's "Let's Talk, Columbia" dialogue-to-change effort.

On behalf of Everyday Democracy, I write to salute Nanette Ward for her efforts on behalf of “Let’s Talk, Columbia.”

Everyday Democracy works with communities across the country, helping them find ways for all kinds of people to think, talk, and work together to solve problems. Thanks to Nanette’s leadership and dedication, Columbia is one of more than 550 communities where public dialogue is becoming a force for change.

For at least seven years, Nanette trained adults and teens to facilitate dialogue, organized monthly community circles and an annual public dialogue event. Let’s Talk, Columbia gave Columbia residents opportunities to address a range of issues, including race, diversity, youth issues, the role of the media, the gap in student achievement, poverty, and more.

Hundreds participated. Together, they built new relationships and networks, and became more active in the public life of the community.

Over the years, the Human Rights Commission has worked with the Missourian, the Reynolds Journalism Institute, Youth Empowerment Zone, the University of Missouri, and the Columbia Public Library, and others. Engaging the support of these community partners expanded the reach of “Let’s Talk, Columbia,” encouraging more people to grapple with tough social and political issues.

Under Nanette’s leadership, Columbia has joined a host of communities across the country where people are learning that every voice matters and that our democracy benefits when everyone gets involved.

We are proud to have worked with you, Nanette. We wish you the very best.

Molly Barrett
Everyday Democracy