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Understanding: 250 Years of Freedom
The spring 2026 publication from the Robert Nusbaum Center is available online
University News | January 27, 2026
Each semester, the Robert Nusbaum Center at VWU sponsors educational initiatives and programming that engage the campus community and reach beyond the University to invite the larger public into the exploration of religious, racial, and ideological differences.
Spring 2026 initiatives explore the theme “250 Years of Freedom,” and the full schedule of events are listed in the Center’s latest edition of “Understanding.” As Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center Craig Wansink and Associate Director Kelly Jackson note in their opening letter in the publication: freedom is too important not to examine. “As we mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Nusbaum Center is wrestling with freedom in all its promise, contradiction, and consequence. We invite you to join us, not because freedom is easy to celebrate but because it is too important not to examine.”
Many events hosted by the Center this spring are planned in collaboration with local organizations and faith communities, and through partnerships with various Virginia Wesleyan departments and student organizations.
It is noted that speakers' perspectives are intended to invite civil discussion and dialogue, but don't necessarily reflect the policy or position of Virginia Wesleyan University. Members of the campus and local community are invited to these special opportunities to build bridges of understanding between people of different worldviews.
All Nusbaum Center events are free, open to the public, and are held on the VWU campus, unless otherwise specified.
Read the latest issue of “Understanding” online. Mark your calendars for spring 2026 events!