Advocate like it's 1999!
"I want it that way" - Backstreet Boys. Do you also want it that way? Then advocate! Join two Ohio advocates for a fun-filled 90’s music-themed session where you’ll learn tips and tricks for effective federal, state, and/or personal advocacy. By the end of the session, you'll feel confident sharing with your members of Congress what you want, what you really, really want. So, tell them what you want, what you really, really want... a zigazig awwwsome positive political impact for diversity and inclusion initiatives!
Facilitators: Abby Conder Lussier, Associate Director, International Student and Scholar Services, Ohio University; Lisa Ho, Associate Director of International and Off-Campus Programs, Ohio Wesleyan University
Creating Open Dialogues: Nondirective Techniques for Handling Challenging Dicussions
In today's climate, facilitating difficult conversations is more important than ever, especially regarding diversity and inclusion. “Creating Open Dialogues: Nondirective Techniques for Handling Challenging Discussions” is a workshop designed to equip participants with the tools to manage these conversations effectively. This workshop targets anyone who may need to facilitate challenging discussions, including post-secondary students, professionals, and higher education staff.
The workshop aims to guide participants through the principles of nondirective teaching practices. These practices empower individuals to navigate difficult conversations by fostering a non-judgmental environment conductive to open dialogue and practical solutions. By the end of the session, participants will understand what nondirective practices are, when to use them, and how to create a welcoming atmosphere for those discussions
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Facilitator: Jessica Bailey, Graduate Student and Graduate Assistant for the Office of Student Conduct, Marshall University
Unmasking Dialogue:
Turning Anonymity into Accountability
In today’s digitally connected higher education landscape, anonymous communication among students has become increasingly prevalent. While anonymity provides a sense of freedom, it also poses challenges and negative consequences. Anonymity can embolden students to express themselves more candidly, but cyberbullying, hate speech, and misinformation thrive in anonymous spaces, affecting campus climate and student well-being. As higher education professionals, our role extends beyond academic instruction; we must guide students toward responsible communication and foster a culture of accountability. The goal of this session is to help professionals learn how to empower students to move from anonymity to responsibility by promoting digital citizenship, creating safe spaces, and modeling accountability. By bridging the gap from anonymity to accountability, we can foster a more civil campus—one where students engage thoughtfully, respect diverse perspectives, and contribute positively to the academic community.
Facilitator: Michaela Arthur, Assistant Director of Student Conduct, Marshall University
Beyond the Binary: Queer Folklore and It's Role in Higher Education
This interactive workshop, "Beyond the Binary: Queer Folklore and Its Role in Higher Education," explores the rich and diverse representations of queer identities in folklore from various cultures. Participants will delve into stories from African, Asian, European, and Indigenous traditions, examining how these narratives reflect and challenge societal norms regarding gender and sexuality. The workshop will provide practical strategies for educators to integrate these stories into their curricula, promoting a more inclusive and understanding campus environment. By engaging in thematic analysis, case studies, and group discussions, attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable methods to enhance diversity and inclusion efforts within their institutions. This session is ideal for students, educational professionals, and community members committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity in higher education.
Facilitator: Eric Brown, Instructor, Composition and Literature, Shawnee State University