On November 20, 1965, the Center for Teaching about War and Peace opened its doors under the leadership of Director Russell Broadhead and a committee of distinguished faculty. The mission then was to provide interdisciplinary, university-wide, academic programs in the field of domestic and international conflict and peace issues. In 1987, the WSU Board of Governors, building upon this rich heritage, created the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPCS).

Mission

Founding members of the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies

The mission of the Center for Peace & Conflict Studies is to develop and implement projects, programs, curricula, research and publications in areas of scholarship related to international and domestic peace, war, social justice, arms control, globalization, multicultural awareness and constructive conflict resolution.

The Center for Peace & Conflict Studies addresses this mission in three ways. CPCS supports undergraduate and graduate student excellence through its academic programs. CPCS staff and students engage in scholarly research initiatives on aspects of domestic and international conflict management. CPCS provides community outreach programs that emphasize: conflict resolution, development of intercultural understanding, and enhance local knowledge of global affairs.

CPCS has undertaken a new emphasis area the Saperstein Initiative in Science, Technology, Peace and Public Policy, which will involve additional courses, research and public presentations on the intersection of scientific and technological issues and peace/conflict, in such areas as the environment, weaponry, bio-genetics, health care, engineering and computing. 

Our logo

The logo used in all publications of the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies signifies "Peace Through Knowledge." The dove rising from the book symbolizes our commitment to building a world of peace and constructive conflict resolution through education, research, and community service.