Center for Peace Studies Records

In December 1981, University of North Dakota President Thomas J. Clifford invited faculty and students to join him in organizing a "symposium for peace." The symposium was a catalyst for serious reflection on issues related to peace and focused attention on "the fate of the earth." Clifford formally established the Center for Peace Studies in his 1984 Centennial Address. The newly created program fell under the auspices of the President's office. Over the next two years a major in Peace Studies was created to encourage critical study of the history and contemporary literature related to peace, war, and social justice, as well as enhance public education on these critical human concerns. Faculty associated with the Center developed a proposal for a Peace Studies degree program, which was approved by the University in 1986 and the State Board of Higher Education in the Fall of 1988. In 1988, the Peace Studies Center was established in UND's Canterbury House. In May of that year, the Center for Peace Studies received a $100,000 grant from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for curriculum development. Additional support received from the Otto Bremer Foundation was instrumental in ensuring the Center's existence and on-going effectiveness. During the 1991-1992 school year, responsibility for the Center was moved from the President's office to that of the Dean of Arts & Sciences. This move resulted in significant governance changes. In 1995, under President Kendall Baker, all state appropriated funds were eliminated, and the Canterbury House was razed. Despite losing its building, the Peace Studies major continues. Since its inception, the Center has enjoyed widespread faculty support. An average of 35 faculty representing every College at the University participates in the Peace Studies curriculum.

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