Building a Community of Trust

In partnership with the Greater OKC Chamber forum.

One unspeakable act of terrorism on April 19, 1995, brought together a 350-member task force to memorialize those who were killed, those who survived, and those changed forever. The process was not easy, as those involved had to learn to listen to other perspectives, share their personal opinions, and practice patience and civility all while working through their own grief and vulnerability. It is from their example that the gift of Better Conversations was born, giving hope that we can work through challenging issues by learning the skills to engage with adventurous civility. Trust between community stakeholders can be difficult to build and too easily lost. That was true in 1995 and it is true today. But we must keep talking, seeking a kinder and more understanding world with Better Conversations, to cultivate and nurture community trust.

Better Conversations Speaker Panel

John Kennedy, Moderator
Chair of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Foundation

Joyce Henderson
Retired Oklahoma City Educator & Principal

Bob Johnson
Founding Chairman of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Foundation and Memorial Trust

Christy Gillenwater
President & CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber

Craig Freeman
City Manager of Oklahoma City

Sean Trauschke
Chair, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Chairman, President, and CEO, OGE Energy Corp.