Global Scholars Reflect on Fethullah Gülen’s Legacy of Education and Peace

Held at Drew University | October 3–5, 2025

An international conference titled “Fethullah Gülen’s Thought and Practice: Education, Dialogue, Peacebuilding, and Identity Formation” was held at Drew University on October 3–5, 2025, bringing together scholars and civic leaders from around the world.

Scholars, faith leaders, and civic activists from around the world gathered at Drew University for the international conference “Fethullah Gülen’s Thought and Practice: Education, Dialogue, Peacebuilding, and Identity Formation.”

Jointly organized by Respect Graduate School, the Peace Islands Institute, and Drew University’s Center on Religion, Culture & Conflict, the three-day event explored the life, philosophy, and enduring influence of M. Fethullah Gülen, highlighting his recent passing as a moment for reflection and renewed dialogue.

Keynote speakers—including Dr. Scott Alexander, Dr. Sophia Pandya, and Dr. Thomas Michel, S.J.— from his philosophy of education and interreligious dialogue to his vision of peacebuilding and moral renewal in modern society.

Media outlets, including Samanyolu, Politurco, Turkish Minute, TR724, and Hizmetten.com, covered the event, emphasizing its message of compassion and coexistence. Despite the logistical challenges of a hybrid format, participants described the conference as a true embodiment of the Hizmet movement’s values—learning, dialogue, and peaceful engagement.

Organizers announced that selected papers will be prepared for publication and that future symposia will continue exploring Gülen’s ideas in relation to education, ethics, and civil society.

“In a time of global division,” one participant noted, “this conference reminded us that dialogue remains the most powerful bridge between hearts.”