Will you chip in to support our nonprofit newsroom with a donation today?
Yes, I want to support My MLTnews!
The Building Bridges Project will host its third annual Building Bridges Summit at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, at Washington State University Everett, 915 N. Broadway. The free public event will bring together elected officials, community leaders, students and residents for discussions focused on civic dialogue, political polarization and strengthening community connections.
Featured speakers will include U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene, Sen. Ron Muzzall, Sen. John Lovick, Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin and Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring.
The summit will also recognize Future Leaders Academy essay award winners from Marysville Getchell High School and highlight the importance of investing in future civic leadership.
“This summit was created because communities are strongest when people are willing to come together, even when they do not always agree,” Snohomish Council Councilmember and co-founder of the Building Bridges Project Jared Mead said. “We need more spaces where respectful dialogue, understanding and collaboration can happen, and that is exactly what this event is intended to foster.”
“Our goal has always been to bring people together in a way that encourages engagement instead of division,” Nehring said. “At a time when polarization dominates so much of the national conversation, local leadership and community connection matter more than ever.”
“We believe communities move forward when people are willing to listen, engage and participate,” Building Bridges Project co-founder Josh Estes said. “This summit is about creating a constructive environment where leaders, students and community members can have important conversations about the future of our communities and the responsibility we all share in strengthening them.”
Marysville Getchell High School AP government teacher John Natterstad said the partnership has helped students connect classroom learning with civic engagement opportunities.
“This program has given students the opportunity to engage directly with important issues impacting their communities and to see that their voices matter,” Natterstad said. “Experiences like this help students better understand government, civic responsibility, and the importance of respectful dialogue in a democratic society.”
“Healthy communities and strong economies go hand in hand,” CEO and President of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce Wendy Poischbeg said. “Events like the Building Bridges Summit help foster the relationships, conversations and civic engagement that contribute to a stronger and more connected region.”
The event is free and open to the public. Community members, students, business leaders and civic partners are encouraged to attend. While RSVPs are not required, organizers encourage attendees to register in advance for planning and seating purposes.
Real first and last names — as well as city of residence — are required for all commenters.
This is so we can verify your identity before approving your comment.
By commenting here you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct. Please read our code at the bottom of this page before commenting.