In a world often characterized by rapid change and digital connections, a small group has taken a step back to embrace the timeless wisdom of Fred Rogers. Meeting monthly, they delve into discussions that reflect on the core values that Rogers championed, offering a refreshing perspective on human interaction.
Inspired by Mister Rogers
Angie Hansen, the chair of the English Department, along with English professor Jesse Egbert, initiated the Fredliness Group. Their goal is to cultivate a space where Fred Rogers’ philosophies can be explored and appreciated. “It all started because Angie and I both love Fred Rogers,” Egbert explained. “We decided to start a group where we could get together and talk about his teachings and about feeling good but also taking his philosophy on life and relationships seriously.”
Since its inception last year, the group has been open to students, faculty, and community members eager to discuss Rogers’ teachings on kindness, emotional honesty, patience, and dignity. Hansen believes these discussions are crucial, remarking, “We were thinking about students’ mental health and how we all need to give more time and attention to values and not only content.”
Conversations Rooted in Values
Meetings typically begin with a quote or video clip from Mister Rogers, sparking conversations on applying these values to everyday life. Participants explore how to handle conflicts, listen without judgment, and perform small acts of kindness. Egbert highlights Rogers’ focus on self-perception and its impact on relationships, noting, “He rarely talks about how we should be behaving toward one another but focuses instead on how we should value ourselves.”
While some newcomers are initially reserved, many feel comfortable sharing personal experiences over time. “There is no pressure to participate,” Egbert said. “The number of people who keep coming back is a good sign for us.”
A Moment of Reflection
For Hansen, these sessions are a welcome respite from the daily hustle. “We are going from class to class, to midterms to other duties,” Hansen noted. “This hour we spend together has no agenda or expectations… we just think about who we are and what we value in each other and in ourselves, our shared humanity.”
Beyond mere nostalgia, these gatherings aim to foster emotional validation and empathy, qualities often overshadowed in today’s divided society. The Fredliness Group meets on the first Friday of every month at 10 a.m. in the Liberal Arts building, room 110, and welcomes all interested individuals.
Mariana Laas | NAU Communications
(928) 523-5050 | mariana.laas@nau.edu
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