This workshop will focus on building the skills and awareness needed to manage strong emotions and navigate triggers during discussions of complex and sensitive topics. Participants will be introduced to tools and techniques for handling challenging conversations. The session will also explore how emotional intelligence can help ensure that these discussions remain constructive and inclusive.
This workshop will focus on:
- Understanding the profound role emotions play in communication
- Managing one’s emotions when engaging with people whose views are very different
- How to keep engaged in discussion when strong emotions are present
- Select tools and techniques for navigating complex and sensitive topics
The workshop will include interactive, hands-on practices to activate the learning.
This workshop is presented by Soliya.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
After the workshop, participants will:
- Better understand the role emotions play in communication
- Have a deepened awareness of one’s communication style and reactions when engaging with people whose views are very different
- Have learned tools and strategies to keep engaged in discussion when strong emotions are present
NODA Core Competencies addressed:
- Communication
- Diversity, Inclusion, and Access
- Crisis Management
INTENDED AUDIENCE:
Anyone interested in improving their communication skills; no prior facilitation training, knowledge or experience required.
TRAINER:
Bonita R. McGee, MA, is a consultant, trainer, facilitator, and instructor. She works with educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations (community-based, faith-based, and public health), providing strategic planning facilitation, program development and training, and technical assistance in dialogue facilitation, domestic violence awareness, and leadership. McGee is a member of the Muslim Advocacy Network Against Domestic Violence (MANADV) and a board member of the Peaceful Families Project, a national domestic violence awareness organization. McGee's core values are collaboration, equity & justice, and excellence. She has been working with Soliya since 2008.
LEARN ABOUT THE SPONSORING ORGANIZATION:
Soliya is a recognized global leader in dialogue and virtual exchange. We design and implement dialogue and training programs which transform the way people engage with differences. Our work with over 280 colleges and universities around the world has yielded lasting, measurable impact. We work with institutions to adapt our methodology to their context and train people to run dialogue on contentious issues. Soliya has collaborated with a number of US campuses to address current polarization and divisions, including SUNY Potsdam, Amherst College, Stanford University, and others. In 2019, Soliya was recognized by the Global Centre for Pluralism as an Honorable Mention recipient of the Global Pluralism Award.
We have worked with over 60,000 people worldwide and trained over 7,000 professionals and students over the last two decades.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
Member Rates:
- Member early bird: $50 (ends September 4, 2025)
- Member regular: $75 (ends September 29, 2025)
- Member late: $125 (ends October 16, 2025)
Non-member Rates:
- Non-member early bird: $150 (ends September 4, 2025)
- Non-member regular: $175 (ends September 29, 2025)
- Non-member late: $225 (ends October 16, 2025)
CANCELLATION POLICY:
Please review NODA's cancellation policy prior to registering for this symposium or institute.
NODA EXCELLENCE FUND:
Scholarships for this event and other NODA educational opportunities are available through the NODA Excellence Fund.