Barb and Tom Leard have launched the Leard Family Initiative on Religion and Global Affairs at Arizona State University, aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of the role of religion in global affairs. The initiative supports interdisciplinary courses and public programs that explore the intersection of religion with various societal forces.
Founders’ Background and Vision
During a recent lunch in Cave Creek, Arizona, the Leards discussed their motivations for the initiative, which stem from their own experiences with faith and global politics. Barb’s childhood exposure to news about the Soviet invasion of Hungary shaped her views on war and the influence of power dynamics. Her Catholic upbringing and interactions with diverse religious traditions have fueled her desire to promote understanding across cultures.
Tom’s experiences in Thailand during the Vietnam War highlighted the impact of local customs on conflict resolution, reinforcing his belief that religion and diplomacy must coexist in global interactions. Initially considering a focus on individual student support for study abroad programs, the Leards realized that developing courses could have a broader impact.
Interdisciplinary Courses and Community Engagement
The initiative has funded courses such as Religious Freedom, Islam and Politics and Religion and Globalization, which bridge the humanities and social sciences. This approach allows for a comprehensive examination of histories, values, beliefs, and their implications for political institutions and global relations.
John Carlson, director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict, praised the initiative for extending intellectual inquiry beyond traditional boundaries. Evan Berry, an associate professor, noted the initiative’s role in developing new courses that analyze religion’s influence on governance in both American and international contexts.
Moreover, the initiative will host a public event titled “Witnessing Atrocity: Religion, Storytelling and Reconciliation,” featuring journalist Philip Gourevitch. This event will explore how storytelling can enhance empathy and inform responses to conflict.
Impact on Students
The Leard initiative is already influencing students, such as Aleena Haugen, who noted that the courses provide essential tools for understanding and challenging various ideas related to religious freedom. Tom emphasized the importance of students developing an appreciation for diverse belief systems and the histories of others, while Barb hopes they recognize the multiplicity of perspectives that exist.
The Leards expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to foster meaningful understanding among students and the broader community. “We expect this initiative to produce results,” Tom stated, reflecting their commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation in a world shaped by diverse religious beliefs.
Source: Arizona State University
