Fostering Diversity and Understanding through 'Unlikely Friends' Program

Creating safe spaces for tough conversations on campus

Last semester, the Office of Hope, Unity & Belonging (The HUB) and University Ministries introduced campus to Unlikely Friends, a pilot program to build community across differences of every kind. 

The Birth of Unlikely Friends 

The idea for Unlikely Friends emerged from a desire to provide students with a healthy space to engage in crucial, albeit difficult, conversations important for navigating life in an increasingly diverse society.  

A group of 32 students from various walks of life formed the inaugural cohort of Unlikely Friends, participating in meaningful conversations about identity, empathy and active listening. The group met four times during the spring 2024 semester for two-hour sessions, shared a meal and engaged in structured activities and conversations that promoted dialogue and connection.  

"We were honestly blessed with such a diverse group for our pilot program," said Essence Collins, support and programming specialist for The HUB. "The students were incredible and truly thirsty for this kind of work. Their passion and interest really convinced us that this program needs to continue."  

A microcosm of diversity was represented in the inaugural cohort with students from various ethnicities, genders, faiths and political backgrounds ranging from first-generation college students to international students, representing different religious affiliations and orientations. 

Together, the students developed "Unlikely Friends" rules and commitments which shaped the program's structure and goals. The B.E.A.T. acronym (bias, empathy, abeyance, trust) was crafted to define the approach used to recognize personal biases and build empathy. 

At the end of the experience, students discussed a range of “hot button” topics such as race in America and religion and gender roles, all moderated by an Unlikely Friends facilitator. 

"We were nervous at first," University Minister Heather Daugherty said. "But the students navigated these conversations beautifully. They were open, respectful and eager to listen and learn from one another." 

Expanding the Conversation Across Campus 

The inaugural cohort's success spurred the development of the “Unlikely Friends Roadshow,” designed to reach more students than was possible in the spring semester. 

The Roadshow — happening throughout the fall semester — offers a concise, yet impactful Unlikely Friends experience, featuring program highlights, facilitator-led discussion and an exploration of the B.E.A.T. framework. 

Roadshow sessions will be conducted in classes, through Student Organizations and as featured events that coincide with larger-scale campus programming such as Diversity Week. Those interested in hosting an Unlikely Friends Roadshow are encouraged to contact The HUB and UM. 

As the demand for Unlikely Friends increases, The HUB and UM are simultaneously working to identify individuals who would like to be trained as facilitators, including staff, faculty and students.

By equipping staff and faculty with the same language and skills as students, the goal is not just to facilitate conversations but to cultivate a campus culture where everyone feels equipped to build meaningful relationships with people who are different from them. 

“By building a common language of empathy, active listening and respectful dialogue, the roadshow has the potential to transform how Belmont approaches conversations around diversity and difference,” Daughtery said.  

Programs like Unlikely Friends position Belmont as a leader for building community across diverse groups. Unlikely Friends emphasizes the hope that through understanding and dialogue, it is possible to create spaces where all voices are heard, respected and valued.