Morrison-Novakovic Center for Faith and Public Policy

Welcome to the Morrison-Novakovic Center for Faith and Public Policy

Faith &
Public Policy

A unique living and learning community at Davis & Elkins College where students and community members engage in meaningful discussions around faith and public policy

The Morrison-Novakovic Center comprises 15 students, both resident and non-resident. Our residents and members come from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, but all share a commitment to exploring the role of faith in shaping public policy and discourse. Students apply and are selected for the center based on academic achievement, a strong record of community engagement, and a personal vision of how faith can intersect with public policy to improve our community.

The Center House has space for ten residents, and is the site of the Center’s weekly dinner gatherings. At these events, students host guests from the college and local communities and beyond, preparing dinners and engaging in discussions about social issues. The house also features space for other workshops and community events, as well as a faith and public policy library.

Our Mission

Our mission is to foster a living-learning community where students and members of the D&E community can discuss the intersection of faith and public policy, modeling civil discourse and respectful conversations

What We Do

The Center aims to create a community that explores the intersection of faith and public policy, encourages bringing a faith perspective to bear on political issues, and promotes the common good. We strive to foster models of civil discourse, academic excellence, and connection-building.

Weekly Engagement & Events

The life of the Center revolves around our weekly dinner meetings with students, faculty, and guest speakers who share perspectives on current issues. These gatherings foster community and build understanding.

Center Events include:

  • Weekly dinners with community guests
  • Student-led “Tough Talks” forums focusing on difficult campus issues
  • Special sessions with visiting campus speakers and lecturers
  • Workshops on conducting civil public discourse
  • Bi-annual trips to Washington D.C. to meet with leaders in the faith and public policy areas

Get Involved

The Center comprises a small group of both resident and non-resident students, offering an intimate community focused on engaging conversations and personal growth. Students from all disciplines join together to learn about and contribute to meaningful dialogue, then invite others to do the same.

Define &
Elevate

The Morrison-Novakovic Center is a place where I feel deeply connected with my peers through fellowship over our weekly home-cooked dinners. It’s somewhere where my intellect is constantly being challenged and developed through extensive discussion on different prevalent topics with new guests each week. Everyone comes with an open mind and heart, ready to listen and truly cultivate a learning atmosphere.

Aly Miller

Center-connected student

Miller

Stories in Action

Experience life at the MNC through photos and videos of past events, student projects, and community gatherings.