New At the Center Episodes Explore Curiosity and the Foundations of Collaboration
Even when you have a brilliant idea, getting a project off the ground can be daunting.
This season of the Graham Center for Collaborative Innovation’s (GCCI) At the Center podcast is exploring a step-by-step breakdown of the collaborative process. Back in September, we announced the launch of the special series and its first episode. Since then, two new episodes have been released, respectively exploring the power of curiosity and early hurdles one might encounter when setting up and launching a new joint project.
October’s episode, Curiosity as a Superpower, was recorded in front of a live audience of nearly 100 people at YCP’s Willman Business Center. Led by guest host Dr. Rachael Lattanzio, Assistant Professor of Nursing, the episode features Dr. Jessica Fautch, Dean, Kinsley School of Engineering, Sciences and Technology; Dr. Melanie Loehwing, Associate Vice President for Student Success; and Dr. John J. D’Adamo, Assistant Head of School and Head of Middle & Upper School, York Country Day School. Together, they explore how curiosity allows people to build deeper connections and understanding.
Hailing from Wisconsin, Dr. Fautch reflected on her experience adjusting to her new environment in York, noting that her curiosity at times made strangers uncomfortable. “It's really important, I think, to push through that [discomfort] and have that dialogue of, ‘I'm just being curious, I want to know and ask those questions.’” Dr. Fautch explained, “A lot of time it does bring you to realize that you are working from some common ground.”
Drawing on her research in rhetorical studies, Dr. Loehwing explained how the exchange of different perspectives is essential in democratic societies. “It’s only through responsible, mutually respectful posing and answering of questions that we can actually advance the work that we’re doing,” she said.
Dr. D'Adamo also shared his insights from working with adolescents, highlighting the importance of building trust and creating safe spaces where children feel comfortable asking questions without worrying about judgment.
In November’s episode, Just Getting Started, host Dr. Tamara Sniad, Executive Director of the GCCI, is joined by: Laura O'Grady, VP, Impact & Strategy, United Way of York County; Dr. James Kearns, Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering; and Cal Weary, CEO, Weary Arts Group & Adjunct Professor of Theatre. Reflecting on their experiences in the nonprofit world, engineering, and the arts, they share practical ways to find the right partners, initiate conversations, and push past the "I'm not quite ready" feeling that comes with getting a project off the ground. Dr. Kearns offered, “Sometimes we think of constraints as being like hindrances, barriers…but actually, they are often guides and very important milestones and so forth that restrict us so we don't just wander all over the place.”
O’Grady reflected on the importance of timing in collaboration, describing when United Way of York County teamed up with York County Community Foundation to provide assistance during the disruption of SNAP benefits in 2025. “Looking back, it was one of the most rewarding collaborations I've ever been a part of,” she remarked. “It was so time-sensitive, so impactful to the people. [It] created really strong relationships that I think will carry us forward for a long time.”
Through the GCCI, all episodes are paired with an in-person event that the public is welcome to attend. Please join us for our upcoming Just Getting Started Listener Lunch on Tuesday, November 17, 2026 (12-1 p.m.) to meet the guests and enjoy a buffet lunch provided by Gather 256.
To learn more and register, check out our GCCI Events Linktree! We hope to see you there!
