The Process
Sessions will be defined by a specific topic, chosen to address an issue of concern. Each topic will be posed as a question that provides the organizing framework for the session. This insures that attendees will have a common focus, while bringing different perspectives to the table.
Some Examples:
A visual artist, a town select board member, a commercial real estate developer and an urban planner unite to tackle the question: What is the best way to promote affordable housing policies in our local community?
An AI engineer, a high school teacher, a psychologist and a science journalist may come together to address the question: How might we provide an alternative to the infinite scroll in children’s use of social media? In some instances additional participants will be available (e.g., a panel of high school students) to provide further input to discussions.
A biotech executive, a materials scientist, a musician and a TikTok influencer might team up to consider: How can we create an upswell of interest in replacing chemical plastics with seaweed-derived single use packaging? These products are now out there, but not widely used.
The Facility
The Center at Nauset provides basic room and board at no cost to the residents.
Four private bedrooms offer comfortable living quarters and a workspace so that participants can stay connected to work while in residence.
Common areas include a living room, sunroom, and library that also serves as a conference room. These spaces are designed to facilitate group work and leisure enjoyment!
Schedule
Each session will involve a combination of group meetings, breakout work times, personal time and opportunities for both individual and group recreational activities. Most days the group will work together in the mornings. Early afternoons may involve smaller group collaborations, presentations from outside guest speakers, panel discussions, or relevant outings. Later afternoons will protect personal time until dinner. The schedule will likely be altered each session in order to adjust to attendees’ needs and to take advantage of opportunities that arise for the given topic.
Meals
The kitchen will be stocked with items for breakfast and lunch. Dinners will be communal, some prepared as a group. Food preferences will be accommodated as much as possible, provided that they are communicated by the request deadline for your session.