In a time of rising distrust, political violence, and deep polarization, what does it mean to be an engaged citizen—and how is Gen Z reshaping that answer? In this episode of The Space In Between, Leigh sits down with Dr. Cynthia “Cindy” Lietz, Dean of Arizona State University’s Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, to explore how a new generation of students is navigating trauma, digital overload, and democratic uncertainty—while still showing up with conviction, compassion, and a hunger to serve. Together, they unpack how we can hold firm to our values, strengthen trust, and create spaces for real civil discourse in a world that often rewards blame and grievance instead.
In This Episode, We Explore
- What it means to be an engaged citizen today
How to approach civic life with both an open mind and an open heart in a divided and unsettled world. - Gen Z up close, not in stereotype
What Dean Lietz is seeing in her classroom and across Watts College: students who may appear quieter or more hesitant post-COVID, yet are deeply thoughtful, values-driven, and passionately committed to making a difference. - The long shadow of COVID on a generation
How remote high school years disrupted social development, why in-person interaction still matters, and what shifts faculty have seen as students return to physical classrooms. - Digital natives and the double-edged sword of technology
The opportunities and risks of being the first fully digital-native generation—from meaningful connection to echo chambers, mis/disinformation, and mental health concerns. - Civil discourse as a learned practice, not a talking point
How ASU and Watts College are building structures and programs—like civil discourse training and the Next Generation Service Corps—that put students from different disciplines, backgrounds, and perspectives in conversation around real-world problems. - Trust, institutions, and democracy under strain
Why skepticism toward higher education and public service can’t just be dismissed—and how leaders can respond with transparency, humility, and courage. - Leading through political violence and grief
How Dean Lietz processed and addressed the assassination of a polarizing public figure with her students, modeling partisan inclusion, emotional honesty, and a commitment to nonviolence and democratic norms. - Courage and the “space in between”
The both/and of this moment: we need more listening and more courage; strong convictions and deep respect for those who see the world differently. - A hopeful view of Gen Z’s leadership potential
Why time spent with Gen Z leaves Dean Lietz more hopeful about the future—and what those of us in older generations owe them in terms of support, modeling, and shared responsibility.
About Our Guest
Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Lietz is Dean of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions at Arizona State University and a President’s Professor in the School of Social Work. A nationally recognized scholar and practitioner, her research centers on strengths-based approaches that help youth and families build resilience in the face of trauma and adversity. Under her leadership, Watts College has become known for its innovative programs, diverse student body, and deep commitment to preparing students for public service and community impact—from Arizona to the wider world.
Call to Action
As you listen, consider:
- Where are you seeing signs of courage, curiosity, and care in the younger people around you?
- How might you create spaces—in your family, workplace, campus, or community—where people can disagree honestly, listen deeply, and stay in relationship?
- What is one small action you can take this week to strengthen trust—whether that’s checking in on a young person, engaging someone across a difference, or re-committing to your own civic participation?
If this conversation bolsters your hope even a little, share this episode with a Gen Z leader, an educator, or a public servant in your life, and keep the dialogue going. Our democracy—and our shared future—are shaped in the space in between.
