PitchLine Programming   

Our country is more divided than ever, with too many of us isolated from those who hold different views. This division damages our communities, disrupts our families, and stops us from working together for the common good. We’re guided by the rule that red and blue leaders are equally represented at every level of organizational guidance. We inspire and equip Americans to practice courageous citizenship across political differences through skill-building, convening, and collaborative action.

What participants will get out of the workshop:

• More understanding of the values and concerns of people who differ from you politically
• Better skills for listening in a way the other person feels heard.
• An improved ability to share your perspective in a way the other person might hear even if they disagree.

Emily Twanmo joined Braver Angels in 2023 after her book club read about a sociologist’s research study. Emily serves as co-chairperson of the Alliance of Washtenaw County, the first official Braver Angels Alliance in Michigan. Emily is a qualified moderator for Braver Angels workshops. She has over 20 years of experience leading meetings, facilitating discussions, and public speaking, as well as financial management, policy development, and team building.

Dina Kurz joined Braver Angels in 2025 to learn about the motivations and stories of others who think and believe differently than her circle of friends and colleagues. Over the course of her career, she has partnered at the local, state, and national level with governmental and community-based organizations to strengthen the skills of those who work to promote and protect the quality of life in communities.

Dr. Clark has a lot of formal education. But her real education took place through her willingness to jump into activities and jobs for which she wasn't sure she was qualified. As a NASA Scientist, she kept waiting for someone to say, "The jig is up; we have figured out that you have no idea what you are doing. Get out!" She shares stories of her adventures, such as launching science experiments on the space shuttle and landing an F-18 on an aircraft carrier.

Dr. Kathryn Clark earned five advanced degrees from UM and recently retired from UM’s Aerospace Engineering department. Her work has focused on the health, safety, and efficiency of crews on long-duration space missions. As former International Space Station Senior Scientist, she coordinated scientists from 16 countries. She later served as Chief Scientist for Human Spaceflight, helping plan missions to Mars and using the ISS to address the physiological challenges of long-term spaceflight. She now writes children’s books about the solar system as Auntie KC.