On March 9, 2026, the Atlantic Institute, a valued partner organization of the Southeast Civic Platform (SECP), hosted its 3rd Annual Ramadan Dinner & Awards Gala in the Cyprus Room at The Carter Center in Atlanta.
The event brought together approximately 190 guests, including community leaders, Georgia officials, academics, and representatives from diverse faith traditions. The evening’s program, titled ‘Carrying the Heart Forward: Service and Dialogue,’ explored how service to humanity and sincere dialogue can strengthen relationships across cultures and faith traditions, inspiring attendees to work together toward peace and mutual understanding.
Evening Highlights
The program featured remarks from distinguished leaders who emphasized the importance of community and interfaith cooperation:
- Insights on Peace: A representative from the office of Barbara J. Smith, Vice President of Peace Programs at The Carter Center, emphasized that lasting peace is built through trust, understanding, and dialogue.
- Keynote Address: Dr. Jon Pahl, Professor at United Lutheran Seminary, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the Hizmet movement and Fethullah Gülen’s vision of service to humanity through education and dialogue.
- Interfaith Perspectives: Auxiliary Bishop Joel M. Konzen (Archdiocese of Atlanta), Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal (Ahavath Achim Synagogue), and Rev. Dr. Christopher Ray Alexander (Woodward Academy) all offered reflections on the importance of strengthening relationships across religious communities and uniting around shared human values.
- Spiritual Reflections: Maureen Jenci Shelton of Emory University and Beyza Delen, Program Manager at the Atlantic Institute, provided prayers and reflections that enriched the evening’s atmosphere of unity.
During the program, the 2026 Peace and Dialogue Award was presented to Gareth Young in recognition of his longstanding contributions to strengthening understanding and service within the Atlanta community.
You can view highlights and photos from the event via the following social media posts:
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