There are very few adjectives robust enough to describe the importance or timeliness of Free Speech and Campus Civility. Experts on academic leadership, Buller and Cipriano present readers with a text that is thoughtfully developed and painfully germane and that clearly expresses the energy and direction of civility in higher education—a direction that penetrates the core of the academy and what it stands for and certainly goes a long way to define and perhaps refine its value for the future. This text is exceedingly articulate in its presentation and precise in its message, making it a valuable resource for the entire academic community. In fact, the connection between free speech and civility benefits both the campus community and society at large; certainly the lack of civility in the broader society is a concern for everyone and begs for resolution. This reviewer concluded his reading of the text excited about the potential for exploring the subject matter further, as the book's conclusion presents a vision for the broader application of the content. This text is valuable for academic leadership, higher education policy makers, and students in whose hands society's fortune rests. Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty; professionals.

Choice Reviews

This very valuable book on free speech and campus civility is an extremely practical resource for colleges and universities in navigating the difficult dilemmas posed by the need to promote civility and open dialogue while protecting student safety and avoiding harm to vulnerable students. Through use of case studies and scenarios, the book offers a wealth of resources for faculty, administrators, and students seeking to unpack these complex issues and develop proactive solutions and programs.

Edna B. Chun, PhD, Chief Learning Officer, HigherEd Talent

At a time when the divisions in our nation have never seemed so deep, it is incumbent on colleges and universities to promote the values of free speech and civility. It is only through courageous conversation and positive discourse that we will gain the understanding and unity that are sorely needed for us to resolve the critical issues confronting our society.

Joe Bertolino, President, Southern Connecticut State University

In an age when our institutions are perilously teetering on the high wire of campus climate, desperately trying to balance the promotion of civility with the protection of free speech, Buller and Cipriano deliver a practical resource that should be on every administrator’s bookshelf. They provide the complete package: an historical eye on the past, moments for reflection on our present beliefs, and a proactive vision for the future that forges a true middle road, leading us to a place where our speech is truly free…where our discourse is truly civil…where we can disagree without being disagreeable.

Richard L. Riccardi, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education