Original catalog of workshops (Note: Please use list below for signups.)
Download the full catalog of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging training opportunities here.
Advancing Student Leadership for Gender Equity – Where Do We Start?
Presenter: Dr. Jabani Bennett
Date(s): 1/18/2024 @ 1pm-3:00pm
In higher education, how do we cultivate authentic relationships with diverse student leaders in a sustainable way? Are we on the right track in co-creating spaces of belonging with students invested in gender equity? If so, come and share your expertise with your colleagues and uplift equity-centered leadership approaches in student engagement. If you are not confident about how you can nurture systemic change with students in your current role, join us in collaborative experiences that consider power and infrastructure.
Anti-Racism for White People
Presenter: Sam Fowler
Date(s): 1/10/2024 @ 10am-11:30pm
White supremacy and the violence it inflicts on society is a problem that directly impacts all of us. In this session, we will dive into white supremacy and how an anti-racist practice is an integral need of how white people move through the world.
CHAMPioning Positive Change and Embracing Diversity: Centering Ali's 6 Core Principles
Presenter: Sherry Durham
Date(s): 10/10/2023 @ 10am-12:00pm; 2/8/2024 @2:00pm-4:00pm; 3/22/2024 @10:00am-12:00pm; 7/17/2024 @ 2:00pm-4:00pm
Drawing inspiration from the life and values of the G.O.A.T., Muhammad Ali, this interactive workshop guides participants on a journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and character development. Through stories, quotes, and impactful anecdotes from Ali's life, attendees will explore 6 core principles that embody who he was even beyond the boxing ring. Participants will be inspired to reflect on their own values and choices, fostering a deeper understanding of the principles that drive ethical decision-making and positive change. This workshop is an invitation to cultivate the spirit of champion within oneself, aligning with the enduring legacy of Muhammad Ali and his commitment to making a meaningful impact on the world. Join us in embracing the principles of greatness, both inside and out, as we strive to create a more compassionate and empowered society.
Changing the Narrative: Assessing and Advancing Equity
Presenter: Ryan Simpson, Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 5/9/2024 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm
This session explores the process and principles behind conducting equity audits in various settings. Through a combination of interactive exercises and practical case studies, participants will learn how to assess and enhance inclusivity and equity within learning and work environments. This workshop aims to empower participants with tools and knowledge needed to identify disparities, recognize systemic barriers, and implement targeted strategies for fostering equity. By guiding participants through the audit process, this workshop equips individuals with the skills to drive meaningful change and create environments that prioritize fairness, representation, and justice for all.
Critical Cardinal Conversations: Navigating Difficult Dialogues
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 11/15/2023 @ 10:00am-11:30am; 3/6/2024 @2:00pm-3:30pm; 3/26/2024 @ 9:30-11:00am CANCELLED; 4/15/2024 @1:30pm-3:00pm
This session offers a supportive, and thought-provoking, environment for participants to delve into challenging discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through thoughtful guidance and practical exercises, attendees will develop the skills to engage in open, honest, and empathetic dialogues. This workshop aims to foster understanding, bridge gaps, and promote meaningful connections, empowering individuals to navigate sensitive topics with confidence. Partner with us as we aim to build a more inclusive and equitable world, one courageous conversation at a time.
DEIJBLGBTQ……LMNOP (Terminology 101)
Presenter: Byron Terry, Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 10/3/2023 @ 1:30pm-3:00pm; 1/30/2024 @10:00-11:30am, 3/21/2024 @10:00-11:30am
Join us for an engaging and enlightening workshop focused on deepening your understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) terminology. In today’s diverse and interconnected worlds, effective communication around DEI concepts is crucial for fostering environments that are more inclusive and equitable. This workshop will provide participants with a comprehensive overview of key DEI terms and their implications in various settings.
Disability Advocacy 101
Presenter: Brian Holahan, Colleen Martin
Date(s): 10/27/2023 @ 2:00pm-3:15pm
This training takes you through some of the basics of being an advocate for individuals with disabilities. Participants will learn about the Disability Resource Center (DRC), get an overview of the concept of disability, learn more about the experiences of individuals with disabilities, and be able to recognize and reduce barriers for individuals with disabilities on campus and in the community.
Exploring (White)Supremacy
Presenter: Dr. Trinidad Jackson
Date(s): 10/9/2023 @ 11:00am-1:00pm
In the United States, white supremacy has historically been aligned with hate groups that align their whiteness with direct violence toward other groups. Well, that’s all it is, right? During this interactive session, we will identify multiple facets of the construct, and explore how our own positionalities might intersect with supremacy.
Exploring Power and Privilege: A Journey Towards Equity
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 11/9/2023 @ 3:00am-4:30am; 2/27/2024 @ 2-3:30pm; 3/7/2024 @2:00pm-3:30pm
This session offers a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration of the dynamics of power and privilege in society. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and reflective exercises, participants will explore how power structures impact individuals and groups. This workshop seeks to foster a deeper understanding of privilege, its effects on historically marginalized communities, and ways to use one's own privilege and power for positive change. By creating a space for open dialogue and self-reflection, attendees will gain insights into dismantling barriers and advancing equity. Join us as we strive to build a more just and inclusive world by recognizing the role of owner and privilege in shaping our lives and interactions.
Five Things You Can Do Now to Create a Welcoming Workplace for Transgender Employees
Presenter: Brian Buford
Date(s): 11/7/2023 @ 3:00pm-4:30am; (Canceled - 3/13/2024 @ 10:00am-11:30am)
Most of us want our departments to be welcoming and inclusive but don’t know where to start. In this session, we will look at some tangible steps every manager can take to send a message of welcome and remove barriers to success for transgender and nonbinary employees. We will look at the organizational systems that can sometimes put people in boxes or leave them out altogether. Forms, bathrooms, email addresses, and even nametags can all be a minefield for someone who identifies as transgender. The session will include some of the specific steps UofL has taken to be more inclusive along with best practices, stories, and time to ask questions in a safe and supportive space.
Fostering Inclusive Excellence and Belonging in Learning Environments
Presenter: Marcos Morales & Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 11/17/2023 @ 10:00am-11:30am; 3/21/2024 (CANCELLED); 7/25/2024 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm
This session aims to equip educators with effective strategies to foster inclusive and welcoming spaces for all learners. Through a combination of theory and engaging activities, participants will learn how to cultivate an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and every individual feels a sense of belonging. By exploring best practices, case studies, and interactive discussions, this workshop aims to empower educators to enhance the overall learning experience, promote academic success, and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and equitable society. Join us in our commitment to shaping educational spaces that celebrate diversity and foster excellence for everyone.
Fostering Inclusive Excellence and Belonging in Work Environments
Presenter: Byron Terry, Marian R. Vasser Date(s): 11/28/2023 @10:00am-11:30am; 4/11/24 @2:00pm-3:30pm
This session aims to equip campus partners with effective strategies to foster inclusive and welcoming spaces for all. Through a combination of theory and engaging activities, participants will learn how to cultivate an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and belonging is realized. By exploring best practices, case studies, and interactive discussions, this workshop aims to empower campus partners to enhance the overall work experience, promote success, and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and equitable society. Join us in our commitment to shaping work environments that celebrate diversity and foster excellence for everyone.
I am NOT Racist Part I
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 11/8/2023 @ 10:00am-11:30am; 1/11/2024 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm; 4/23/2024 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm
I am NOT racist! Why are we even talking about race?! This learning experience explores the roots, manifestations, and consequences of racism and racial classifications. Through a combination of candid discussions, historical context, and introspective activities, participants will engage in a journey of self-discovery and empathy-building. This workshop aims to create a safe and open space for individuals to examine their own biases, challenge preconceptions, and develop a deeper understanding of the systemic nature of racism.
I am NOT Racist Part II
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 1/23/2024 @ 10:00am-11:30am; 3/18/2024 CANCELLED; 4/30/2024 @ 1:30pm-3:00pm CANCELLED; 5/10/2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm (added)
Building on content from part one, this session propels participants toward action. After all, simply declaring you are not racist does not change anything. Participants will explore practical strategies to move them beyond a declaration to action. Join us as we explore practical approaches toward antiracism.
Innovative Leadership for Gender Equity through the Arts
Presenter: Dr. Jabani Bennett
Date(s): 5/14/2024 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm
Can the arts help us nurture innovative leadership for gender equity in a sustainable way? How do you integrate the arts and design to support inclusive leadership development? How can arts integration transform our workplace? Come and share your expertise with your colleagues and uplift equity-centered leadership approaches in “art thinking” and creativity. If you are not confident about how you can nurture systemic change through the arts in your current role, join us in collaborative experiences that consider power and infrastructure.
It Happens to the Best of Us: Implicit Bias Pt. 1
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 9/25/2023 @ 10:00am-11:30am; 10/17/2023 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm; 1/26/2024 @ 10:00am-11:30am
This interactive workshop provides participants with a comprehensive exploration of the concept of implicit bias and its impact on decision-making, perceptions, and interactions. Through a combination of real-world examples and interactive activities, participants will gain insights into how unconscious biases shape our behaviors and contribute to inequities. Participants will learn practical ways to interrupt and decrease the negative impact of biases.
It Happens to the Best of Us: Implicit Bias Pt. 2
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 9/26/2023 @ 1:00pm-3:30pm; 3/1/2024 @ 10:00am-11:30am, 3/19/2024 Cancelled
Building on content from part one, this session delves deeper into the impact of implicit bias on our thoughts, behaviors, and decision-making processes. Participants will further explore intricate ways in which implicit biases shape our perceptions and interactions. With a focus on practical application, participants will explore strategies for recognizing and addressing biases in both personal and professional contexts. This workshop aims to create a brave and introspective space where participants can recognize and confront their own biases, fostering a greater sense of self-awareness and empathy. By equipping individuals with practical tools and strategies, the workshop empowers participants to actively challenge their implicit biases and contribute to building more inclusive and equitable environments. Join us as we commit to uncovering implicit biases, driving positive change, and creating a more just society for everyone.
Latinindad: Que es eso?!
Presenter: Mónica Negrón
Date(s): 02/27/2024 @ 10:00-11:30am
Hispanic, Latino, Latina, Latinx, Latine?! Which do I use, and do they mean the same thing?! In this workshop, we will talk about the evolution of language and explore the complexities that make the Latinx community so vibrant and so different.
Mindful Curiosity
Presenter: Zina Alyasseri
Date(s): 03/06/2024 @ 10:00 -11:00am (CANCELLED - Will be rescheduled)
Part of becoming a “well-rounded” person, is knowing how to connect with those who differ from you. “Mindful Curiosity” is a reminder that no matter how great the differences may be, it will never be an excuse to not learn about the people you share this earth with. This workshop aims to build confidence in curiosity and allow us to ask the questions we’re too scared to ask, as well as how to answer those questions, should we be the ones asked.
Ramadan 101
Presenter: Aya Alhamrouti, Zina Alyasseri
Date(s): 2/23/2024 @ 12:00pm-1:00pm
The sighting of the crescent moon marks the start of the Holy Month of Ramadan, an important month for millions of Muslims all over the world. This month consists of fasting, increasing your good deeds, giving to charity, caring for orphans, and feeding the hungry. As a divine order, Muslims fast to gain an understanding of those who may not have any source of food, let alone three meals a day. As a result, people become humbler, more patient, and spiritually revived. However, besides hunger and thirst, there are countless hardships that Muslims face during this Holy Month. “Ramadan 101” strives to give a professional, political, and social lens to all those who may observe their fellow coworkers, students, friends and even sometimes family participate in Ramadan, to create a deeper understanding of how to be mindful and supportive during this month.
Safezone
Presenter: Byron Terry
Date(s): 10/5/2023 @ 5:00pm-6:30pm
Safezone is an introductory training designed to build a base level of knowledge about the LGBT Community and explore allyship. People who complete this training have the option to receive an ally sticker.
Stop Memorizing Pronouns
Presenter: Sam Fowler
Date(s): 10/11/2023 @ 10:00am 11:30am
Much of the current conversation around trans and nonbinary people focuses on pronoun use. In this session, we will discuss why memorizing pronouns does not lead to collective liberation and better ways to include all community members in the spaces you share.
The Fight Within: Examining and addressing the impact of colorism
Presenter: Kiana Fields
Date(s): 2/29/2024 @ 9:00am-10:30am
Beauty standards. Hiring practices. Stereotypes. Colorism shows up in numerous aspects of our society but rarely is space created to explore its impacts across and within BIPOC communities. In this session, participants will explore the definition and historical roots of colorism, the systemic impact and interpersonal manifestation within our institutions, and examine frameworks to mitigate its impacts within our community. This session will be an interactive practice where we will use storytelling and an intersectional framework to explore colorism.
Transformative Collaborations for Gender Equity in the Workplace – Where Do We Start?
Presenter: Dr. Jabani Bennett
Date(s): 2/6/2024 @ 11:30am-1:00pm
How do we cultivate authentic relationships with diverse community members, on and off campus in a sustainable way? Are we on the right track in co-creating spaces of belonging with community members invested in gender equity? How will these relationships transform our workplace? Come and share your expertise with your colleagues and uplift equity-centered leadership approaches in coalition building. If you are not confident about how you can nurture systemic change through intentional collaborations in your current role, join us in collaborative experiences that consider power and infrastructure.
Understanding the Undocumented/DACA Student Experience
Presenter: Monica Negron
Date(s): 03/29/2024 @ 1:30-3:00pm (added date)
“Why can’t they just come to the states the legal way?! Why are we supporting students who are here illegally?” Many times, those are questions that arise when talking about undocumented students and students who have DACA. In this training we will go over the terminology between those who are undocumented/ have DACA, are refugees, and those individuals who are seeking asylum. The purpose of the training is to be more aware of the struggles some of our UofL students and incoming students face and ways we can be more knowledgeable about their experience as well as what resources different classifications of people are able to receive.
Unpacking Unintended Bias: Navigating Microaggressions
Presenter: Marian R. Vasser
Date(s): 10/20/2023 @ 10:00am-11:30pm; 10/31/2023 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm; 4/9/2024 @ 3:00pm-4:30pm; 7/16/2024 @ 10:00am-11:30am
Have you ever said something you wish you could take back? Have you ever made a statement, intended as a compliment, that was taken the wrong way? Do you often bite your tongue or avoid uncomfortable conversations out of fear of offending others? It is actually very common for well-intentioned people to say things that are harmful. During this interactive session, participants will explore a host of microaggressions that regularly show up in everyday language. This session is not intended to stifle free speech, but instead offers tools to increase effective engagement and compassion across differences.
What's My Medicine? Creating Healing Spaces in Unhealed Places
Presenter: Kiana Fields
Date(s): Added date - 03/29/2024 @ 1:30-3:00pm
Abstract:
As individuals in pursuit of justice and equity, we operate in violent systems steeped in capitalism and white supremacy. However, violence and trauma does not just happen to an individual, but it also happens to the collective. In this interactive session, participants will explore the concepts of organizational trauma and collective healing practices
Where Are You From?
Presenter: Annie King
Date(s): 10/16/2023 @ 10:00am-11:00am
Abstract: Is it rude to ask people “where they are from”? In this workshop, we will learn how to ask people about their heritage and ethnicity. Participants will be asked to reflect on what really goes on behind the question and critically think about the language they use to engage with others from different backgrounds. Ideas surrounding stereotypes and “othering” will be introduced. Through this workshop, participants will gain a better insight on how to connect with individuals from various cultures with intentionality and openness.
You’ve Got The Man: Exposing the Real Culprit of HIV in the Black Community
Presenter: Byron Terry
Dates: 2/21/2024 @ 12:00pm-1:30pm
This training looks at the intersection of race, sexuality, and health. Presenters will take a deep dive into how intersectionality is important when addressing issues.