‘Crucial Conversations’ reading and practice

A message from University Ombuds Jill Crainshaw and Erica Still, associate dean for Faculty Recruitment, Diversity, and Inclusion in the College

Talking to one another: we all know it’s necessary, especially about the things that matter most. And yet, we find ourselves struggling first to start the conversation and then to stick with it when things get tough. And for many of us, it’s not because we don’t want to engage; sometimes we just don’t know how. If that’s you, we invite you to join us as together we move toward healthy dialogue and meaningful conversations.

There are two options: The Reading Group (the book discussion) and The Community of Practice (the topic-based discussion). Space is limited—each group is capped at 15 members. Please sign up for only one of the groups so that we can reach as many people as possible. 

Each group will meet in person on Oct. 29 and Nov. 5, 12, 19 and 26.

In order to get the most out of the experience, plan to attend all five sessions. If you need to miss more than two meetings, please consider waiting until we can offer another opportunity that works better with your schedule.

We’ll confirm your spot in the group by October 18. Books will be provided for participants.

The Reading Group (Tuesdays, Noon to 1 p.m. in person)

Using the book Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, this group will focus on identifying and building skills to help every conversation – especially the difficult ones – lead to productive outcomes. If you’re looking for a place to share strategies and tools for having the hard conversations, wherever they show up, this group might be it.

The Community of Practice (Tuesdays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in person)

Learning about hard conversations is an important part of building community, but it alone is not enough. Eventually, we have to put the skills to use. This group invites you to practice having crucial conversations by doing just that – having difficult discussions. We’ll meet together for five weeks with the express purpose of delving into challenging issues. We’ll start from a place of intellectual curiosity and humility, and we’ll work together to develop a sense of community through healthy dialogue. Participants will decide together the topic(s) of discussion.

REGISTER HERE

Email Jill Crainshaw or Erica Still for additional information.