A program designed to foster civil discourse and mutual understanding is expanding its reach at the University of Iowa. Across the Aisle, a discussion-based initiative that began at the College of Law in 2022, is making its way to the Carver College of Medicine. The first event in this new setting will take place on April 17th, 2025, with students tackling the complex issue of physician-assisted suicide.
Founded by UI law professor Mihailis Diamantis, Across the Aisle aims to help students, staff, and faculty engage in meaningful conversations across ideological divides. Modeled after a program at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, it has quickly become a space for students to engage with each other on difficult issues.
"Democracy in a pluralistic society is as much about disagreement as agreement. At the College of Law, we learn that every case begins with conflict, and effective advocates understand both sides. We're thrilled Across the Aisle is expanding to the College of Medicine, highlighting the importance of respecting differences even in science-driven fields,” says Professor Diamantis.
At its core, Across the Aisle is not about debate or persuasion, but rather about learning to understand different perspectives. Small groups of students from various backgrounds come together to discuss pre-selected, often controversial topics. The goal is to break down ideological silos and foster a community that values thoughtful dialogue.
The program’s growth to the College of Medicine marks a significant milestone, reflecting the broader need for constructive conversations in all professional fields. The College of Medicine is excited to bring Across the Aisle to its students, recognizing the importance of civil discourse in the healthcare field.
“Now more than ever, it is crucial that we as providers, seek to understand more, to find agreement, and to reach our patients where they are,” says Jeydith Guiterrez, Clinical Associate Professor of Internal Medicine. “We must find ways to bring us closer together in order to heal. Listening, with a curious mind is such a vital part of what we do, that is why the concept of Across the Aisle was so appealing to us.”
This expansion has been made possible through the dedication of student organizers as well as the addition of Hope Metcalf, a clinical law professor who joined the Iowa Law faculty in January 2025. Metcalf, who has a background in human rights and constitutional law, brings valuable experience to the Across the Aisle leadership team and is eager to help the program continue growing.
“I feel so fortunate to be part of a community that values genuine discourse. One thing I have learned from working with lawyers in places like Liberia and Afghanistan is just how precious – and fragile – democracy is,” reflects Professor Metcalf. "At the end of the day, democracy depends on our ability to see our adversaries as fellow citizens, to have hard conversations, and to seek common ground.”
Student leaders at the College of Medicine have also played a key role in expanding Across the Aisle to their campus. Their commitment to fostering open dialogue underscores the program’s value across academic and professional fields. Abby Davison, an MD/MPH student, shares her enthusiasm for the initiative.
“As future physicians, we won’t always agree with our colleagues or even our patients, who may hold different views than we do. Being able to engage in open, respectful discussions is essential to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. I hope Across the Aisle offers a space where we can practice navigating complex, difficult conversations while maintaining respect for one another. The ability to listen, reflect, and engage with different viewpoints will ultimately make us better doctors and stronger advocates for our patients,” says Davison.
With an ever-growing demand for spaces that encourage civil discourse, Across the Aisle continues to build bridges—one conversation at a time.
“The expansion of Across the Aisle from the College of Law to the College of Medicine shows the power of having hard conversations,” says 2L law student Roni Miller. “Particularly at a time of increased division, disagreement, and distrust, talking openly and respectfully with people who think differently than you is the only way I see we come to love and care for our neighbors again.”
As Across the Aisle expands, its leadership team welcomes other departments, colleges, and universities interested in establishing their own programs. University leaders at Iowa and beyond are encouraged to explore how Across the Aisle can be adapted to their own communities. The program offers resources, discussion prompts, and communications materials on its website to help others get started in fostering thoughtful, constructive conversations on campus.