The scenarios of ACES ten years into the future presented a rich bank of ideas from which potential building blocks for the future could be identified. To further filter the process, tables merged lists to streamline descriptions of the items as they fit into the three categories. A radical aspect of a future search conference is its stance toward conflict and unresolved issues. With a group of stakeholders as varied as those of ACES, disagreements about priorities, programs and areas of importance were expected. Participants were encouraged to express disparate viewpoints with the expectation that a broader understanding of the issue, not a resolution to the issue, was the goal.
Conflict is put on hold, and areas of agreement or common ground are the basis for action.
For every issue left unresolved, conference participants gained deeper understanding of its complexity. The purpose of future search is to take the focus off personality and political differences, problems and symptoms and instead direct energy and attention to building on consensus themes. Stakeholders of the College of ACES identified and described themes for the College that can guide decisions and actions for the next several years. Bringing stakeholders together to discuss the future of ACES reflects the College's commitment to increased and ongoing discussions with these groups. The fourteen areas of agreement create several focal points for action, from which broader initiatives might develop.