Leaders from Washington University in St. Louis visited Punahou School on Jan. 6, for a thoughtful conversation on free speech, dialogue and the role of educational institutions in a democratic society. Chancellor Andrew D. Martin and Vice Chancellor Anna Gonzalez spoke with Academy students, faculty and staff in Luke Lecture Hall during a discussion moderated by Punahou President Mike Latham ’86.
The visit was coordinated through the Davis Democracy Initiative, a program that advances civic learning, civil discourse and engagement at Punahou. Founders Mark Davis and Janie Davis were in attendance, reflecting the initiative’s commitment to creating spaces where students can explore complex issues essential to a healthy democracy.
During the discussion, Martin emphasized that free speech is fundamental to education because it brings important ideas to the table and fuels discovery and knowledge. He noted that while expression can sometimes be uncomfortable, institutions must intentionally shape environments that encourage questioning while protecting safety and access to learning for all.
Gonzalez highlighted the importance of building a campus culture where students feel welcomed to speak and challenged to listen. Drawing on Washington University’s “Dialogue Across Difference” program, she emphasized teaching students how to engage productively on complex topics such as politics and race, recognize personal biases and see the humanity in others.
The conversation also addressed campus protests, institutional neutrality and the responsibilities that accompany free speech, with an emphasis on transparency, clear community norms and respect for the right of all students to learn. The event concluded with an engaged Q&A session that reinforced a shared message – free speech thrives when paired with responsibility, empathy and mutual respect.