Ethics in Action is an event that promotes critical and meaningful thought about ethics. The event encouraged students to consider what they believe good ethics are in society and their community, what shapes one’s philosophy and treatment of others, and how to be better people. A discussion on ethics and community action was brought to SNHU and high school students on January 18 when they were asked, “What does it mean to be a good person?”
Souheagan High School students hosted the event and partnered with the honors program in support of their work. Student facilitators volunteered in setting up the event. Guest speakers attending the event included SNHU program designer Deo Mwano, Peter Levine (Ph.D.), and SNHU alumni Sam Fuller (’15).
“They truly took charge of the event, were confident in their leadership roles, and were excited to be organizing discussions on ethics,” said Honors Program Coordinator and Honors Fellow, Shannon Luby (24’). “As an educator, I believe that teachers have more to be learned from students than anyone could ever imagine. Students, no matter how young or old, are powerful and capable of achieving greatness. When an event is run by students, for students, connections are deeper, discussions are more meaningful, and there is more excitement about the event.”
Panelists Mwano, Levine, and Fuller discussed what brought them to do the work they do now, opening the door to conversation amongst the students themselves. Students heard the perspectives of others with different backgrounds such as age, race, religion, or education. In addition, students shared their insight and knowledge and developed empathy in understanding where their ethics come from.
Souheagan High School students also got the opportunity to experience what a night on campus is like.
“[They] could express their ideas in a new setting, and make connections with new peers,” said Luby. “Similarly, college students got the opportunity to learn from their peers and high school students, [and] discuss what makes a good person from various perspectives.”
The Ethics in Action event continues to serve as a starting point in building stronger relationships within the community. Teaching students to think critically allows them to listen with compassion and curiosity, impacting the world one person at a time.
