Student Spotlight: Introducing Emma Davis to the HPI Student Board

Emma Davis is the Chair of the Student Board at the Heravi Peace Institute for the 2026-27 academic year. She is a senior in Utah State University’s Interdisciplinary Studies program, earning certificates in Global Peacebuilding and Conflict Management & Facilitation with the Peace Institute. Drawn to interdisciplinary studies for its flexibility and breadth, Emma uses her academic path to explore the many dimensions of peace and conflict. She is especially passionate about mediation, conflict transformation, and restorative justice, and believes deeply in the idea that conflict can be a catalyst for growth rather than division.

Emma’s work at the Peace Institute is rooted in student engagement. She previously served as an Undergraduate Teaching Fellow for Professor Chad Ford in the Bridging Religious Differences course, where she helped design and facilitate workshops that supported students in practicing nonjudgment, listening with curiosity, and building interfaith communication skills. These experiences strengthened her commitment to helping students develop practical tools for navigating conflict in their lives.

As Student Board Chair, Emma is excited to expand student involvement across campus and build stronger partnerships between the Peace Institute, the university community, and local organizations. She is passionate about helping students discover the Institute’s programs and opportunities, and she hopes to empower more students to integrate peacebuilding into both their education and their everyday lives.

Outside of her academic and leadership work, Emma enjoys painting, hiking, running, and spending time with her husband and child.