Living in a communal setting with 10 to 14 individuals presents both unique challenges and opportunities for growth, particularly when it comes to navigating conflict. In response to these dynamics, the Washington Community Scholars’ Center (WCSC) utilized an EMU Inclusive Excellence Grant to host a series of conflict resolution workshops led by local peacebuilders Kirstin and Merwyn De Mello, both of whom earned their MA in conflict transformation from EMU in 2005.
The two-part workshop series was held during both the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters, offering students and staff practical tools for resolving interpersonal conflict in healthy and constructive ways. The sessions emphasized peaceful communication, self-awareness, and community accountability—skills that extend far beyond the shared WCSC house.
Kirstin and Merwyn De Mello bring deep experience and commitment to this work. Kirstin serves as the climate advocacy and education coordinator with Mennonite Central Committee’s National Peace & Justice Ministries office. Merwyn works as a peacebuilding consultant, supporting various organizations in the D.C. metro area and internationally. Together, they model a lifestyle rooted in nonviolence, community organizing, and harmony with the natural world.
Each semester, up to 15 students participate in the WCSC program, which includes not only internships and academic coursework but also intentional community living. Students share cooking responsibilities, manage a collective food budget, and work together to maintain their home. These responsibilities are often an intercultural learning experience, as participants navigate diverse communication styles, expectations, and traditions.
“WCSC students consistently report that during the program they become more comfortable interacting with people who are different from themselves, and supporting our students in doing the brave work of living in community with people they didn’t know is something we take seriously,” said Ryan Good, WCSC program director. “This training was an excellent opportunity to expand their toolbox for working through misunderstandings and conflicts.”
The WCSC program continues to prioritize personal growth, cross-cultural understanding, and peacebuilding as central components of its mission.
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