California State University, Bakersfield has officially appointed Dr. Nate Olson as the new permanent director of the Kegley Institute of Ethics. This institute, which has been a staple of ethics education and dialogue in Kern County since 1986, plays a significant role in fostering discussions around political and social differences.
Dr. Olson, who has been with CSUB as the chair of the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department, served as the interim director since 2023 before his permanent appointment. His leadership is expected to enhance the institute’s initiatives aimed at promoting ethics education and meaningful dialogue within the community.
One of the current programs underway focuses on bridging political and social divides through conversation. Dr. Olson recently returned from a trip to Harvard University, where students from CSUB learned essential dialogue skills, an experience he sees as critical in contributing to the institute’s mission.
As the Kegley Institute celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, Dr. Olson expresses enthusiasm for continuing to build relationships and engage both students and community members in thought-provoking discussions.
The appointment of Dr. Olson marks a promising step forward for the institute as it aims to strengthen its influence and outreach in promoting ethical discourse in a rapidly changing world.