Civility Series: The Urbandale Way
We’re bringing residents together around one shared read and a series of community gatherings that make room for real conversation—across different views, different experiences, and different generations. The Civility Series is about strengthening what’s already here: a community that can disagree, stay respectful, and keep moving forward together.
If you’ve ever wished we could tackle hard topics without dismantling the fabric of society, this series is for you.
2026 Civility Series Events
These events are intentionally flexible: attend the ones that interest you, and you’ll still get value. If you can make several, even better—the series is designed to deepen over time and culminate in a special September community evening event.
Tuesday, April 21 at 5:30 PM
All Urbandale Reads: The Soul of Civility by Alexandra Hudson
Urbandale City Hall
Tuesday, May 12 at 6:00 PM
Evening Book Discussion: Exploring Civility in Modern Times
Urbandale Public Library
Thursday, May 21 at 2:45 PM
Civility & Civic Renewal: What it Means for Leaders and Teams
Prairie Meadows Event Center
Saturday, June 13 at 10:00 AM
TED Democracy Live: Founding Futures
Urbandale Public Library
Tuesday, September 22 at 6:00 PM
Civility Dialogues | Nationally Recognized Speakers | Former Iowa Governor and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Author Alexandra Hudson, Councilmember Patricia Boddy, & Mayor Robert Andeweg | Moderated by Dr. Greg Robinson
Urbandale Performing Arts Center
Wednesday, October 28 at 1:00 PM
Afternoon Book Discussion: From Ideas to Practice
Urbandale Public Library
