The University of Notre Dame’s annual Student Peace Conference took place on April 4-5, 2008. This free conference was officially sponsored by the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, and is planned and directed entirely by undergraduate peace studies students of the University. Every year the conference unites undergraduate and graduate students from universities and colleges across the United States and abroad with a spirit of peace, a desire to see a change in the world, and commitment to a rigorous, multi-disciplinary academic program focused on building international peace.
Entitled “Bringing Peace Down to Earth,” the conference highlighted the role of individuals and grassroots efforts in the peacebuilding process. The conference will explore how we can take part in preventing and addressing various forms of conflict and violence.
The conference featured seminars, lectures, artistic performances, exhibits, and a keynote speaker. Undergraduate and graduate peace visionaries of all disciplines submitted proposals regarding potential presentations.
The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Ellis Jones. Jones has focused his energy on bridging the gap between academics, activists and the average citizen. He is co-founder of The Better World Network, an organization dedicated to global social responsibility and the translation of lofty ideals into sustainable, effective, everyday actions.
2008 Student Peace Conference Co-Chairs:
Mariah Quinn and Ryane Burke
