Ed.D. in Kinesiology student, Eric Tucker recently served as a moderator for an open discussion in policing and community engagement with local policy leaders and law enforcement at NC State Social Work Symposium. The theme of this symposium was “Policy and Advocacy: Intersectionality of Poverty, Race, and Gender.” The City of Raleigh and City of Garner police chiefs sat on the panel and discussed relevant issues raised by the audience. This discussion provided an opportunity to understand how to approach policing and community engagement more collaboratively. Eric explained that “this discussion established the need for collaborative efforts around controversial topics.” Although Eric admitted that he was nervous about moderating on sensitive topics, he was able to successfully moderate the discussion as he focused on the importance of relational thinking. He stated that “relational thinking provided a safe space for people to discuss and exchange opinions.” It was the first time that Eric moderated a discussion at symposium, and he looks forward to doing it again.
Overall this was an excellent professional development opportunity for Eric. Congratulations on your selection, we know it was an honor to moderate at the symposium.