IDEA

The Initiative at DEerfield Academy is an enrichment and fulfillment program supported by Deerfield Academy that is intended to provide Deerfield Academy students, faculty, friends and community with opportunities to explore traditions, cultures, artistic mediums, and ways of living.

IDEA Embraces and Enacts a Culture of Respect by:

• EMBRACING traditions, ethnic heritage, cultures, and faith practices
• ENACTING a dialogue that permeates varying human faith origins and a diversity of experiences
• Celebrating the CULTURES we know and exploring those we do not
• RESPECTING all forms of expression and affirming all peace-creating human beliefs and actions

The IDEA, as an organization, emphasizes meetings, programs, themes, and experiences that are:

• Interfaith
• Global
• Pluralistic
• Cross-Cultural
• Philosophical
• Thought and Dialogue-Provoking

The IDEA is organized through the office of the Dean of Spiritual and Ethical Life and the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Deerfield Academy. All of IDEA’s events are open to the Deerfield Academy community and the surrounding towns, with preference being given to Deerfield Academy students. Annually, IDEA makes an effort to offer:

Faith Services

• Transportation offerings to attend faith gatherings in local communities
• Observance of other traditions’ celebrations and visits to their communities
• Regular prayer/reflection gatherings for adults (faculty, staff, etc.) and students in the community

Outreach and Networking

• Oversee NISSC (Northeastern Independent School Spiritual Council), a community of educators at private schools across New England, in an effort to promote communication and share ideas and resources
• Strong relationships and coordinated projects with Deerfield Academy student groups

Initiative Discussions

• At least twice a year, Deerfield Academy will host the IDEA Lecture Series (IDEALS) at Deerfield, challenging conventional ways of thinking about our community and our world.

Other

• Meditation exercises and experiences offered to the Deerfield Academy community
• Scripture study of differing traditions
• Support of Spice Rack, the magazine of the Department of Philosophy and Religions

Contact Us

Questions about the Initiative at Deerfield Academy can be directed to Jan Flaska at 413-774-1639 or jflaska@deerfield.edu. My office is located in the basement of the Main School Building.