The National Issues Forums Institute is delighted to welcome Dawn Harfmann as our new Program Coordinator.

Dawn joins NIFI with a deep commitment to nonpartisan deliberation, community-centered problem solving, and civic learning across community, higher education, and K–12 settings. She brings more than a decade of experience in research, program coordination, education, and facilitation—along with a thoughtful, systems-oriented approach to supporting dialogue and deliberation in practice.

Dawn is no stranger to NIFI’s work. She previously served as a Program Associate, supporting the planning, implementation, and evaluation of NIFI workshops; contributing to the development and refinement of NIFI materials; strengthening program communications; and helping lay the groundwork for a more robust NIFI resource library. Her familiarity with NIFI’s programs, partners, and values positions her well to help steward our work during this moment of growth and experimentation.

“Dawn brings an extraordinary combination of intellectual rigor, practical experience, and genuine care for communities navigating tough public questions,” said Cristin Brawner, Executive Director of the National Issues Forums Institute. “She already understands NIFI’s work from the inside, and we’re excited to see her continue to help strengthen our programs, partnerships, and national network at such an important moment for civic life.”

With a background that spans qualitative and quantitative research, curriculum design, and place-based education, Dawn brings a rare combination of analytical rigor and relational skill. She has designed and led learning experiences for audiences ranging from middle school students to college classrooms, conducted multi-state research projects, and supported community-led dialogue on complex and often polarized issues. She also co-founded a local Braver Angels alliance in Central Oregon and has been formally trained as a moderator, further deepening her commitment to bridge-building across difference.

As Program Coordinator, Dawn will support the planning and delivery of NIFI programs and initiatives, coordinate logistics and partner engagement, contribute to the development of deliberative resources, and help ensure that communities, campuses, and classrooms across the country have the tools they need to talk, decide, and act together for the public good.

“It is an honor and joy to have been given the opportunity to continue to work alongside the rest of NIFI’s wonderful team and its network of skilled, passionate and experienced partners,” Dawn said. “I am excited and humbled to support the community of people and organizations across the country working to promote deliberation, dialogue and a strong and vibrant civic life in our nation and in our communities. I look forward to meeting and re-connecting with so many of you very soon!”

We are thrilled to welcome Dawn into this role and grateful for the care, curiosity, and collaborative spirit she brings to NIFI’s work. Please join us in welcoming her to the team! If you’d like to connect with Dawn and welcome her to the NIFI team, drop her a note at dharfmann@nifi.org.