SPEAKERS: Michele Holt-Shannon and Bruce Mallory
\nNH Listens, Carsey School of Public Policy, University of New Hampshire<\/p>\n
This seminar will share lessons learned from six years of community-based, statewide civic engagement using the tools of deliberative democracy to address \u201cwicked problems\u201d.\u00a0New Hampshire Listens<\/em> has worked with local communities and the entire state to engage in public deliberations regarding many social and economic challenges. These deliberations inform policy makers (including elected and appointed government officials), community leaders, and everyday citizens about public preferences for actions needed to address \u201cwicked problems.\u201d The public engagement tools used by NH Listens<\/em> complement formal decision-making, legislative, and rule-making processes.\u00a0We strive to build and strengthen adaptable civic infrastructure that creates opportunities for everyone to \u201ccome to the table\u201d in search of common ground and actionable solutions.\u00a0Our ultimate aim is to create engagement processes that are effective, increase legitimacy of public decision-making, and assure equity both in participation and in outcomes.<\/p>\n Michele Holt-Shannon
\n<\/strong>Co-Director, NH Listens, Carsey School of Public Policy, University of New Hampshire<\/em>
\nMichele Holt-Shannon<\/a>\u2019s work is focused on civic engagement, community problem-solving, and building coalitions for community change efforts. She joined Carsey in 2011 to focus on process design to ensure fair, inclusive, and informed outcomes for local and statewide projects. She works to bring people together across perspectives and backgrounds to solve problems and create equitable solutions for their communities. Recent projects include statewide conversations on the American dream and NH\u2019s kids, mental health and substance use, government innovation and efficiency, and water sustainability. Michele received an MA in higher education and human development from Bowling Green State University, and an MTS in world religions and theological studies from Boston College.<\/p>\n