Discussion Group Sign Up
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During the second half of the spring semester, The Program for Leadership and Character will hold discussion groups that reflect on issues of leadership and character in relation to special topics:
The Good Life in Religious Perspective(s)
Led by Dr. Bradley Burroughs
What does it mean to live a “good life,” and what virtues do we need to do so? Despite their many differences, nearly every religious tradition wrestles with these questions. This group invites students into a conversation that will explore how various traditions have addressed these enduring questions while also affording students the opportunity to think about their own identities, values, aspirations, and commitments. Each session will feature a university chaplain representing a different religious tradition—Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism—who will introduce a virtue that is central to their tradition and frame a conversation about that virtue and how we can live good lives.
Murder the Truth
Led by Dr. Bryan Ellrod
Today, we seem to be increasingly inundated with misinformation and disinformation. Meanwhile, long-trusted venues for authoritative journalism appear to be giving way to new platforms that profit by obscuring and distorting the truth. What is the relationship between truthfulness and justice? Can democracies thrive after this relationship erodes? What legal protections and character traits are needed for those seeking to uncover, publish, and protect the truth? In this reading group, we will explore these questions as we take up David Enrich’s 2025 book, Murder the Truth, which explores the legal protections that facilitate the pursuit of truth and the efforts to subvert it.
The Good, the Bad, and the Squat Rack
Led by Leanna Bernish and Wendell Dunn
How does gym culture and working out affect our sense of identity, self-esteem, and relationships? Do gains = happiness? This group invites participants from all backgrounds— whether you’re a D1 athlete, a Wellbeing Center regular, someone new to the game, or just curious. We’ll engage in meaningful conversations about body image, social pressures, masculinity, femininity, and who we want to be. We’ll also tackle misinformation and the worst sides of gym culture, while giving you the tools to think critically and level up your game. Then, join us for a workout afterwards in the Wellbeing Center!
Can I Laugh at That?: The Ethics of Comedy
Led by Jazz Logan
Have you ever wondered what makes something funny? Or what makes a joke cross the line? Our interest group delves into the profound questions surrounding comedy, dissecting the thin line between laughter and responsibility. We also explore how humor can serve as a powerful tool for resilience in uncertain or difficult times—offering relief, unity, and hope when challenges arise. Together, we will navigate the challenges of crafting humor that transcends boundaries without perpetuating harm or reinforcing stereotypes. We will aim to engage in thought-provoking discussions, to share insights on the evolving landscape of comedic ethics, and to collaborate in promoting a more inclusive and mindful approach to laughter. Join us in shaping a space where wit and morality harmonize, fostering a culture of laughter that uplifts rather than undermines.
Interest groups will begin during the week of March 23 and will meet once per week for one hour each time over the next three weeks (March 30, April 6, and April 13).
You can sign up by filling out the form below. The deadline to sign up for a group is Wednesday, March 18.
These groups are open to all Wake Forest undergraduates, so please spread the word to friends whom you think might be interested. If you have any questions, please contact Bradley Burroughs at burroub@wfu.edu.