This Tuesday over 100 students and faculty attended the Post Charlottesville panel held in the Union Building Ballroom.

The Compton Center for Peace and Justice had set out seats and food for about 100, and some people still sat on the floor and stood at the back after more chairs were brought out.

“I think this topic was on a lot of people’s minds and that was reflected by the turnout,” Matt Cummings, “Director of the Compton Center for Peace and Justice , said, “Not only did we have staff, faculty, and students, but there were also local clergy, a person running for congress in the 4th district, various members of local nonprofits, and folks from the community.”

The panel had four professors speaking, Clarissa Peterson, professor of political science and director of the africana studies program, Emmitt Riley, assistant professor of africana studies, Rebecca Alexander, professor of Educational Studies, and Rachel Goldberg, professor of peace and conflict studies.

“Each panelist brought in an area of expertise that really contributed to the conversation,” Cummings said, “One of the best aspects of working at DePauw is that you are surrounded by brilliant faculty who not only teach in these subject areas, but are actively engaging in research around these critical issues and really are some of the top experts in these areas who are happy to collaborate on these opportunities.”

While the discussion was stimulating, people felt as though the best part was the people attending. “I was really happy with the amount of people that came! We had to set up extra chairs and even had people standing,” said junior Barbara Castellini. “There was also a great mix of students, faculty and staff, and community members.”

Overall, the staff of the Compton Center for Peace and Justice was happy to have so many students and community members attend the session. “The biggest goal I and others were hoping for was to begin a conversation on what happened and the historical events that led to this incident,” Cummings said, “…I hoped for was for people to listen, be engaged, and then ask the most important question of what their civic role is in society.