Peacemaking and Conflict Studies Program

Program Director: Peter Smith, Ph.D.

Director: Gregory Zubacz, Ph.D.

The Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies (CPACS) is a unique expression of the university's commitment to peacemaking in the world.

Purpose and Mission of CPACS

The call to peacemaking is universal and timeless, since conflict is always with us. Its shadow is found in all cultures in all times, beckoning for response. When constructive, it leads to better understanding and deeper relationships. When destructive, it tends toward confusion and separation.

The Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies (CPACS) was established at FPU in 1990:

to promote greater understanding of the dynamics of conflict.
to train people in the theology, science and art of constructive conflict management.
to promote and assist in the development of cooperative dispute resolution and justice programs within the institutions of the church and society.

Programs and Activities

The center is responsible for a variety of programs and activities, which include:

graduate programs in peacemaking and conflict studies.
Leadership development of international faculty in peacemaking
Restorative justice and conflict resolution programs that embody theory and practices and that create internship opportunities for students.
Community development of Victim-Offender Reconciliation Programs (VORPs).
Mediation training and services for people in businesses, churches, schools and other organizations.
Community, business, church, school, and other organizational consulting and conflict management.
Research and development to advance restorative justice, peacemaking and conflict studies.

Current Programs

Academic Programs

Master's degree and certificate in options peacemaking and conflict studies

Community Projects

FPU campus discipline/mediation
Restorative Justice Initiative with Fresno County Juvenile Court
VORP (Victim Offender Reconciliation Program) with Fresno County Probation and Juvenile Court
Peace and justice projects with Mennonite Central Committee (MCC)

As a unit of Fresno Pacific University, CPACS community projects are funded by contracts, grants, endowments, cash and in-kind donations and fees for service.

See peace.fresno.edu for additional information.