The Association for Women in Communications Presents “Communicating in a Polarized Society”
**Events may have been canceled or postponed. Please contact the venue to confirm the event.
Date & Time
Wed, Jan 14 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Address (map)
351 Paseo Nuevo
Venue (website)
Workzones
The Association for Women in Communications Santa Barbara (AWC-SB) will present “Communicating in a Polarized Society” with Dr. Tania Israel on Wednesday, January 14, at 5:30 p.m., and will also present the 2026 Lois Phillips Founder’s Award to architect Cass Ensberg.
The event at Workzones in Santa Barbara is free for AWC-SB members and $25 for guests. For more information and to register, visit the AWC-SB website.
Political polarization in the U.S. is at a record high. As news, social media, and biases drive the wedge ever deeper, families, communities, and democracy suffer the fallout of societal divisions. How can communication leaders combat polarizing forces, manage interpersonal conflict, and cultivate a public voice in this fraught context? Dr. Israel can offer solutions. Grounded in evidence, experience, and skills, she will share perspectives and strategies that will leave you informed, optimistic, and empowered to take action.
“We’re excited to have Dr. Tania Israel and anticipate a great turnout for this event. She’s a highly engaging speaker and we’re looking forward to her presentation,” AWC-SB Board President Ana Papakhian said. “Her effective communication strategies empower us to improve our personal well-being, relationships, community, and country.”
In addition to Dr. Israel’s talk, AWC-SB will present the 2026 Lois Phillips Founder’s Award to architect Cass Ensberg. The award is given to individuals who are outspoken on an issue or communicate a need that would otherwise not be addressed.
“Cass Ensberg addresses issues that are controversial,” Dr. Phillips said, “including city planning policies that affect local architecture and our downtown area. She communicates her feedback and ideas in presentations, published op-eds, commission discussions, and the political debates that will shape the future. As a professional woman, Ensberg is a role model for those of us who might avoid controversies, even when we have important and fresh ideas to share.”
