#CUNYPDC23

CUNY Professional Development Conference

BRIDGING THE GROWING DIVIDE: WORKING TOWARDS INCLUSIVITY & COLLABORATION

Join us virtually on Thursday, November 9th and Friday, November 10th for our third annual CUNY Professional Development Conference hosted by the University Human Resources – Professional Development & Learning Office.

This year, sessions will follow one of the core tracks:

Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference
Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change
Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment
Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success
The Power of Learner: Shaping Your Narrative
Technology as a Bridge to Consensus

The agenda for the conference can be found below.

Interested participants should click here to RSVP for the conference by Monday, November 6th in order to ensure their spot!

Schedule

Day 1: Thursday, November 9th

9:15AM – 9:30AM

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Doriane Gloria, Senior Vice Chancellor of University Human Resources

9:30AM – 10:30AM

Opening Keynote
Supporting an Inclusive Multi-Generational Workplace
Manendra Bhugra, Vice President of Organizational Development & Learning, CCA

Session 1: 10:45AM – 11:45AM

Setting Up 2024 SMART Goals: A Workshop for Conscious Living
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success 

Facilitator(s):
Dina R. D’Alessandro, Adjunct Lecturer, Lehman College Read More

This interactive workshop will include real-time activities to support and encourage employees who are both working on campus or split/remote schedules to work and live with intention, mindfulness, and authenticity. We will be developing SMART goals for each of the following “pillars of health and wellness”: Physical, Mental, Social, Spiritual, Environmental, Financial, and Vocational. By forward planning and honing in on creating realistic and achievable personal and professional goals, this workshop aims to help individuals lead a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life, improve overall well-being, reduce burnout, and increase productivity.

Empowering the Learner with Information Literacy and Experiential Techniques
Track: The Power of the Learner: Shaping Your Narrative

Facilitator(s):
Michele Costello, Assistant Professor, Baruch College Read More

The session explains how information literacy and experiential learning empower the learner and provides an example of a practical lesson plan with a financial database.  Information literacy, or the ability to find, interpret and communicate information, is important for student job readiness, problem-solving and success.  Experiential learning allows students to gain deeper knowledge through interaction with primary data and problem-solving activities.

Inclusive Change Management: Lessons from Guttman and Beyond
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Jaclyn Helms, Executive Officer for Diversity, Equity, and Compliance, Guttman Community College
Elie (Elielce) Yoesoep, Director of Human Resources, Guttman Community College Read More

In this session, the Chief Diversity Officer and Director of Human Resources from Guttman Community College will collaborate to share their expertise in change management within the context of a dynamic educational environment. Drawing on their collective experience in guiding leaders, administrators, and faculty through significant transitions, they will provide practical strategies and insights on how to influence, implement, and manage change effectively. Their collaborative efforts are focused on building community, increasing trust, and anticipating challenges supporting the entire campus.

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Session 2: 12:00PM – 1:00PM 

Prepare the Others (PTO): Professional Self-Care for Boss Moves
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success

Facilitator(s):
Rebecca Cenatus, Academic Support Specialist/Lecturer, Medgar Evers College
Jessica Caridad Rivera, Academic Support Program Manager, Medgar Evers College Read More

This presentation will allow higher ed professionals to actively engage in a discussion that explores the intersectionality of personal and professional development as it relates to self-care practices. Specifically, this presentation will apply selected elements of Orem’s (1971) Self-Care Deficit theory within an educational context to highlight how professionals can maintain their autonomy despite facing multifaceted dimensions of internal and external stressors. The presenters will apply a holistic approach to frame how educators and/or administrators can learn to use self-care agency through emotional intelligence, which is necessary to foster positive work environments and relationships. This engaging session will allow participants to gain knowledge, awareness, and practical skills to help them recognize the significance of personal self-care strategies for professional success.

A Yearlong Journey into the Use of Critical Reflection and Collaboration with Students to Develop Equity Action Plans in Schools
Track: The Power of the Learner: Shaping Your Narrative

Facilitator(s):
Kristen Hodnett, Clinical Professor, Hunter College
Maya Berrol-Young, Special Educator and Alumni of Hunter College Read More

This presentation seeks to share in the collective work of a professor in special education and a student/teacher on their journey in a yearlong Practicum to create change in their respective circles using critical analysis to build a more equitable pedagogy with action plan development and implementation. Using a Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion self-assessment, teachers engaged in a pre-assessment to uncover their starting points as social justice leaders in their buildings and as the focus of their action plans in their schools.  Using survey results, course resources, and structured small group conversations, educators were led on a journey to develop an equity action plan (Brown, 2004; Minor, 2020) to impart positive and impactful changes in inclusive classrooms in New York City public schools.  Research suggests that the racial mismatch between students and teachers may be a contributing factor due to the lack of culturally relevant pedagogy in classrooms (Ladson-Billing, 2014). To this end, the survey results from the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion self-assessment served as a personal dimension action (Furman, 2012) for accurate and honest self-reflection before moving toward school-based change.  In sharing one example of a high school equity action plan (Brown, 2004; Minor, 2020) designed to infuse research skills and critical thinking into a school curriculum, we hope to reveal the process of one teacher in this work.  Analyzing the existing curriculum of a 9th-grade Global History class and the broader history curriculum at a 9-12th high school to uncover a lack of projects and attention to critical thinking for students to gain essential research skills.   As shared by the student/teacher during her presentation, inclusive research is broadly defined as research that includes people with disabilities in the research process. (Bigby, Frawley, & Ramcharan, 2014).  The creation of the action plan assignment and the action plan itself was grounded in several instructional theories including culturally sustaining pedagogies (Alim & Paris, 2017), culturally relevant pedagogy (Ladson-Billings, 2014), multicultural education (Nieto & Bode, 2018), and historically responsive literacy (Muhammad, 2020).

Beyond Cultural Competence:  Cultural Humility, Intersectionality, and Community-Based Learning
Track: Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment 

Facilitator(s):
Daniel Boudon Doctoral Lecturer, LaGuardia Community College Read More

This practical interactive workshop will open with a discussion on the importance of identifying and fighting all forms of oppression and discrimination.  It will then explain the development of cultural humility and its advantages over cultural competence.  The workshop will provide faculty & staff with in-depth frameworks for understanding the philosophy and theory behind intersectionality and cultural humility.  This workshop will provide concrete methods for incorporating intersectionality and cultural humility into their courses at multiple levels through group discussion and activities.  The workshop will demonstrate the benefits of community-based and experiential learning and how they can be used to create empowering research assignments that improve students writing, confidence and networking skills.

The workshop will have four main topics: 1) the concept of intersectionality 2) how it can be incorporated into the classroom, 3) how faculty and students can use reflection as a tool to improve their practices, and 4) how community-based learning and civic engagement can be used for identifying social issues, the development of class consciousness, and effectively addressing social problems.  The workshop will include five activities where participants can work individually or in small groups and then share their results with the main group.

Motivating Your Staff to Learn: The Physical & Psychological Factors You Need to Know
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change

Facilitator(s):
Joseph Ginese, Adjunct Lecturer, Borough of Manhattan Community College Read More

Are you seeking to understand why some of your staff are motivated to continue their learning and others seem to have stalled out? Are you curious about what ways you could influence the environment in which your staff operates? This session will explore research conducted on the physical and psychological factors within the work environment that can influence your staff’s motivation to pursue continued professional learning within the next 12 months. By utilizing a combination of Expectancy Value Theory (Psychological Environment) and Field Theory (Physical Environment), an instrument was adapted to help measure the influences of each environment in the workplace and the intended pursuit of participating in continued professional learning (professional development).

This presentation will highlight the dissertation work of the presenter and equip the attendees with the tools to explore their curiosity about motivation as they begin to understand that motivation is just as much about the environment as it is about the person.

Internal Mobility at Work
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Schiro Withanachchi, Associate Dean, Queens College
Kate Pechenkina, Dean of Faculty, Queens College Read More

Administrators in leadership positions can enter academic institutions via two routes: internal mobility and recruitment from another institution. Internal mobility (IM) refers to an individual moving within an organization (either vertically or laterally). This internal transfer of employees to other jobs within a company is also known as talent mobility or employee mobility (Bidwell, 2014). The online seminar will discuss internal mobility in college administration and leadership.  Based on case studies and personal experiences of the panelists and participants, we highlight challenges of new leadership positions which internal and external leaders face and strategies to address these challenges.

As Dean of Social Sciences and Associate Dean of the School of Business at Queens College, we can present our personal IM roadmaps within CUNY. Studies have shown that IM (such as promotions, lateral transfers, or combined promotions and transfers) results in significantly better performance and longevity in the position when compared to external hires (Bidwell, 2011 and Ray, 2023). The seminar will also discuss the difficulty in retaining employees in a strong global economy and healthy job market, the advantages and disadvantages of IM, and how departments can improve IM culture.

Lunch Break: 1:00PM – 2:15PM

Session 3: 2:15PM – 3:15PM 

Charting Success:  Mentorship Journeys of Higher Ed Executives
Track: Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference 

Facilitator(s):
Michel A. Hodge, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Strategic Initiatives, College of Staten Island
Reine Sarmiento, Vice Chancellor Enrollment Management, CUNY Central
Sanjay Ramdath, VP of Enrollment Management, Borough of Manhattan Community College
Daniel Ambrose, VP of Enrollment Management & Student Affairs, Guttman Community College
Gavin Ireland, Director of Recruitment & International Student Affairs, Kingsborough Community College
Celia Lloyd, VP of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management, City College Read More

This engaging panel discussion will feature accomplished CUNY Higher Education executives who have risen to Cabinet-Level positions. The panel discussion will offer a unique perspective on their journeys, highlighting the pivotal role of mentorship in their career ascension. Moderated by an experienced Higher Ed executive (Michel A. Hodge, EdD), the panelists will share personal stories of their paths to success. They will delve into the challenges they encountered, the mentors who guided them, and how they, in turn, have provided mentorship to others.

What sets this session apart is its dynamic format. Our panelists will convene in a single location, providing an intimate, conversational talk-show atmosphere that transcends the typical Zoom meeting. This format fosters a sense of connection and authenticity, making for a more engaging experience. This interactive session will also provide an opportunity for participation! The panelists will field audience questions submitted during a 12 to 15-minute Q&A segment.

Gain insights, learn from the experiences of accomplished leaders, and discover the power of mentorship in reaching Cabinet-Level positions in Higher Education. It will be a unique opportunity to be inspired and informed by those who have ascended to a CUNY college cabinet-level position.

Preferred Names and How to Make It Happen
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Jeremiah Jurkiewicz, Assistant Director of Social Justice, College of Staten Island
Patricia Kahn, Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer, College of Staten Island
Joyce Taylor, Director of Application & Web Development, College of Staten Island
Anna Lambert, Director of Parking & Dolphin Card Services, College of Staten Island
Susan Massara, Registrar, College of Staten Island
Susan Hannafin, HR Manager- CUNYfirst, College of Staten Island Read More

When CUNY first issued a policy for preferred names in 2018, colleagues from various departments at the College of Staten Island (CSI) came together to figure out how to implement these changes in order to effectively serve our transgender and nonbinary campus members. Since then, these departments continue to work collaboratively to update and respond to issues and concerns in a timely manner that honors the humanity and needs of our campus members. In this workshop, you will learn how CSI manages preferred names in various ways such as email, records, IDs, etc. and why it is important to the community we serve. This workshop should be of particular interest to those who work in DEI, IT, HR, Registrar, and ID Services. The session will be followed by Q&A.

First Year Seminar – ChatGPT and Academic Integrity
Track: Technology as a Bridge to Consensus

Facilitator(s):
Sada Jaman, Lecturer, LaGuardia Community College
Jennifer Arroyo, Lecturer, LaGuardia Community College Read More

Does Artificial Intelligence (AI) have the capability to enhance students’ intellectual development or diminish critical thinking ability? This session will present how Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts students’ intellectual growth and critical thinking ability. My colleague and I will further demonstrate a deeper understanding of academic integrity by exploring the use of AI. While exploring the implications, we will discuss the limitations of AI tools such as ChatGPT. The presentation will guide the faculty and staff to stay informed while forcing us to rethink our pedagogical approach to assessing students’ learning.

Doing the Work of Empowering for Equity: Inclusive Language Development and Culturally Responsive Strategies in Higher Education
Track: Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment

Facilitator(s):
Norka Blackman- Richards, Director of SEEK, Queens College
Eleonor Pusey-Reid, Associate Professor, MGH Institute of Health Professions Read More

In today’s diverse higher education landscape, the imperative for fostering inclusivity, equity, and cultural responsiveness cannot be overstated. Our conference presentation, titled “Doing the Work of Empowering for Equity: Inclusive Language Development and Culturally Responsive Strategies in Higher Education” aims to shed light on strategies that empower educators to create culturally responsive spaces and utilize inclusive language as a means to achieve equity in higher education. We will delve into the critical importance of creating an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment, emphasizing the positive impact it has on students’ academic success, engagement, and overall well-being. Our presentation will provide practical insights into higher education “Best Practices” that prioritize inclusivity. Furthermore, we will explore the transformative potential of language in dismantling systemic barriers and fostering a more equitable educational experience. We’ll discuss concrete techniques for promoting inclusive language to foster a community that values diversity and respects individual identities. By attending our presentation, conference participants will gain actionable strategies and a deeper understanding of how cultivating culturally responsive spaces and promoting inclusive language can contribute to greater equity in higher education. Together, we can become empowered to shape a more inclusive and equitable academic landscape.

Confronting the Great Unknown: Navigating the Waters of Transformative Change
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Timothy K. Glennon, College of Staten Island Read More

What: This seminar centers around understanding and navigating the fast-paced change that dominates our current landscape. Attendees will explore some well-established change models, including Lewin’s, Kotter’s, and Prosci’s ADKAR approach. Advancing beyond theory, we’ll examine how to practically apply these models in real-world scenarios, fostering both credibility and clear communication.

So What: The world is in constant flux, and being equipped not only to adapt but also to lead through transformative change is a skill of paramount importance. With technological advancements, such as the rise of artificial intelligence, influencing our personal and professional arenas, understanding these shifts is not just beneficial—it’s critical.

Now What: Having grasped the essence and implications of transformative change, attendees will be guided on actionable strategies to embed and sustain these changes. Together, we’ll journey from understanding the need for change to actual implementation, ensuring that transformations aren’t just momentary but enduring. The goal? To emerge equipped, confident, and ready to turn the challenges of the ‘Unknown’ into tangible opportunities for growth in the ‘Known’.

How? This interesting, timely session looks at trusted change models using today’s interactive tools like Breakout Rooms in Zoom and Poll Everywhere to understand how change is viewed by participants and to compare and contrast human responses to responses of AI. Attendees will explore and understand principles of change through interactive exercises, highlighted by a real-time interaction with ChatGPT, an AI tool, exemplifying change in the here and now as it is happening – allowing for a unique comparison between human and AI viewpoints. By merging time-tested methods with current, interactive elements, this session ensures participants gain knowledge and experience as they participate in this interesting, interactive journey through the uncharted canyons of transformative change.

Session 4: 3:30PM – 4:30PM

Building an Interactive EXCEL Dashboard to Measure Evidence and Improvement
Track: Technology as a Bridge to Consensus

Facilitator(s):
Griselda Chapa, ScD, Lecturer, York College Read More

In this session, we will build an interactive EXCEL dashboard. This can be used to track outcomes across disciplines. We start with creating pivot tables and graphs and then designing the dashboard, The session is appropriate for individuals interested in material, regardless of spreadsheet experience.

Fostering a Growth Mindset to Increase Student Success
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success

Facilitator(s):
Kevin Kolack, Lecturer Doctoral Schedule, Queensborough Community College Read More

This workshop equips faculty to utilize motivationally supportive tools and language designed to excite students. Participants learn how to create a course that supports students in developing adaptive beliefs about learning and school. In particular, participants will learn about three key learning “GPS” mindsets — Growth Mindset, Purpose & Relevance, and Sense of Belonging — and workshop strategies for leveraging these mindsets in a way that promotes student success in a way that can be customized to their own courses/content, teaching methods, and styles of communication.

Leading Through Uncertainty: Adaptive Leadership in Educational Institutions
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Cameron Flowers, Adjunct Lecturer, Lehman College Read More

Educational institutions often face complex transformations. This session delves into effective change management strategies for educational leaders. Attendees will gain insights into assessing change readiness, creating change plans, and facilitating smooth transitions while minimizing disruptions.

Inclusive Leadership: Supporting Leadership Learning to Establish Best Practices for an Inclusive Organization
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change

 Facilitator(s):
Sahana Gupta, Executive Chief Diversity Officer, School of Professional Studies
Celeste Clarke, CIED and Director of Campus Operations, School of Professional Studies
Arianna Rodriguez, CIED Learning Programs and Senior Academic Advisor, School of Professional Studies
Mariam Abdul-Sattar, Administrative Assistant, School of Professional Studies Read More

The presentation by the Committee for Institutional Equity and Diversity (CIED) will describe the Inclusive Leadership Program, developed to support and enhance the accountability, responsibility and response of campus leadership to pro-actively engage in establishing an inclusive environment.  The presentation will focus on the implementation of the program for the first target group which included the senior leadership (Dean’s Cabinet), Academic Program and Administrative Unit Directors and a select group of managers and supervisors.

Asking the Big, Important Question, “What Can I Do for You”?
Track: Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference

Facilitator(s):
Maureen Becker, Dean of Health Sciences & Professional Programs and Interim Dean, School of Business and Information Systems, York College Read More

Leadership, the most observed phenomena & the least understood. Often seen as an elusive, mysterious trait. Explore your path and go along the journey. Open yourself to see leadership as a multi-faceted entity comprised of innate (“natural” born leader) and learned/acquired traits and/or behaviors (nurture).

Be a part of the solution, by being a change agent. As a leader, it is a privilege to serve. Sound research and lived experiences will be shared to assist you during this eye-opening session. It is said, that 10% of the population are natural leaders. Another 20% of people possess enough leadership traits to become great leaders with training and guidance. Daring to lead takes brave work, tough conversations & whole hearts. Learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable & understand the power of diversity & innovation when leading.

Utilizing your tools, leading via mentorship, adding to the body of knowledge, equipping faculty, students and community members access and the opportunity to be better for themselves, and others. Include all and promote consensus building because together we can achieve more. As a leader you are a role model who can show others how to achieve more, we all have the power to make a difference.

End of Day 1

Day 2: Friday, November 10th

9:45AM – 10:00AM

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Doriane Gloria, Senior Vice Chancellor of University Human Resources

Session 1: 10:00AM – 11:00AM

Leading with Inclusion and Respect: Cultural Competency in the Workplace
Track: Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment

Facilitator(s):
Gladys Palma de Schrynemakers, Chief Academic Officer, School of Labor & Urban Studies
Sharon Hardy, Executive Director of Admissions at CUNY, Central Office Read More

This interactive session will have participants reflecting about their own implicit biases. While discussions and activities will invite participants to explore and begin to understand how others present themselves and communicate in the workplace. The group will collectively strategize how actionable behaviors that will advance an equitable and inclusive professional community.

Using Appreciative Inquiry for Institutional Transformation
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change

Facilitator(s):
Linda Essig, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Baruch College
Dr. Kenya Lee, Chief of Staff, Baruch College Read More

In this combined presentation and workshop, Dr. Essig and Dr. Lee will share their experience employing “appreciative inquiry” as the basis for Baruch College’s recent campus strategic planning process, which they co-chaired. Through this process, the campus community was able to envision a future for the institution in a way that capitalizes on both its strengths and its potential. They will first introduce attendees to the appreciate inquiry concept and its four phases: discovery, dream, design, and destiny. They will then show how the results of this process reflected broad engagement of all campus stakeholder groups to develop a strategic plan that will guide Baruch College for its next five years. The process empowered the College to focus on strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results (SOAR). In the third segment, participants will be led through an interactive appreciative inquiry exercise so that they can experience the process for themselves. For more information see: https://strategicplanning.baruch.cuny.edu/

The Long Distance Learner: Will you DARE to develop?
Track: The Power of the Learner: Shaping Your Narrative

Facilitator(s):
Antonee Lewis, Career Advisor, NY EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE @ CUNY Career Development Center & Adjunct Lecturer, School of Professional Studies Read More

This 60-minute session intends to empower the participant to view learning and development as a life-long/long-distance journey, even professionally. By diving into the “M.P.H” formula, the participant will spend their time engaging in varied interactive learning activities to survey if they are indeed a life-long learner who dares to develop? Join this session to find out more about the “M.P.H” formula! Hint: We are not speaking of miles per hour!

Effortless Mindfulness Techniques for Everyone: An Introduction for Faculty and Staff
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success

Facilitator(s):
Brett Whysel, Lecturer, Borough of Manhattan Community College
Noreen Whysel, Adjunct Lecturer, NYC College of Technology Read More

Join us for a revitalizing workshop designed specifically for faculty and staff. Here, we simplify the world of mindfulness with easy-to-follow techniques. Using findings from neuroscience and philosophy, we aim to shed light on how mindfulness can enhance mental focus, productivity, and overall well-being. Participants will engage in 3-5 core practices, like focused breathing and body scanning, and receive tips on seamlessly weaving them into their daily life and work setting. We also dispel common myths and address potential obstacles, ensuring attendees walk away with a robust, practical foundation. While instant enlightenment is not on the agenda, a consistent mindfulness practice can significantly improve your teaching, learning, and everyday wellbeing. To aid in your ongoing journey, a list of recommended resources will be provided.

Charting the Course: From Staff to Strategist, Navigating the Leap to the Strategy Table
Track: Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference

 Facilitator(s):
Denise Patrick, PhD, Baruch College Read More

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, effective leadership stands as the cornerstone of progress and transformation. “Charting the Course” is designed specifically for the ambitious CUNY staff member keen on navigating the nuanced journey from their current roles into influential administrative positions. This dynamic workshop will provide participants with a clear roadmap to the strategy table, illuminating the competencies, strategies, and insights essential for this transition. Attendees will delve into the art of leading high-performance teams, understand the intricacies of change management, and engage in exercises that highlight real-world leadership challenges. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with actionable strategies, a heightened sense of purpose, and a clearer vision of their potential trajectory in academia. Join us to unlock the strategist within you and chart your course to leadership excellence.

Session 2: 11:15AM – 12:15PM


How Practicing Mindfulness Leads To Less Stress And Creates Space For Success
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success

Facilitator(s):
Marcelis Elizabeth Campo, Non-Teaching Adjunct & English Writing Tutor Read More

What is mindfulness really? Well, for me, it lies as a connector to a person’s present perception. What are they tasting, smelling, seeing, hearing, feeling, and experiencing right now? Are they 100% present with their students/employees/colleagues or are they still harboring ill-will towards that jerk who cut them off on the road to work, or who annoyingly bumped them without apologizing while they were utilizing the MTA’s services? This workshop will offer tips on how to focus on paying attention to what’s right in front of a person—not to the side, behind, or even way up ahead of them. So, for 20 minutes, I’ll go into why stress kills and what it and mindfulness practices, like meditation, scientifically do to the body. Then, for 5 minutes, I will explain how to best write and use daily affirmations. Following that, I shall reserve 20 minutes of free-writing with suggested affirmation-journaling prompts. After that time, 15 minutes will be set aside for participants to share because nothing shall get accomplished if we do not learn from each other.

Creating an Organizational Inclusive Climate and Culture for and with LGBTQIA+ Employees
Track: Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment

Facilitator(s):
Andre Ford, LaGuardia Community College Read More

Non-profit and public organizations have made concerted efforts to improve organizational climate and culture (Schneider et al., 2013) by virtue of diversity management, as well as the need to follow federal laws and regulations. With the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, this work took on greater urgency as multiple industries began to intentionally address issues of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) by developing initiatives, and designating or hiring individuals outside of human resources to be leaders in its promotion, implementation and dissemination. However, there is evidence that corporations are retreating from DEI with a higher level of industry related layoffs, as compared to other types of positions (Dumas, 2023). With recent Supreme Court decisions pertaining to affirmative action, the right to refuse service to LGBTQIA+ patrons on the grounds of free speech, and the knowledge that the court decision in support of gay marriage may be revisited, there is additional concern that organizations will not be compelled to make their environments inclusive for LGBTQIA+ employees. With evidence supporting the benefits of diversity in the workforce, specifically, that it’s better for business productivity and performance, organizations must continue to cultivate their employee in creating a climate and culture, which is not only tolerate but truly inclusive of its diversity. The following workshop addresses organizational climate and culture for the LGBTQIA+ community. Grounding the discussion are the historical, political and socio-economic circumstances that have informed this work. Participants will also review best practices concerning engagement with LGBTQIA+ employees and by virtue the client populations organizations serve. The goal is to begin to develop a plan in which participants can begin to implement affirming strategies into their own areas of practice.

Recognizing Diverse Communication Patterns for Effective Online Pedagogy
Track: Cultural Competence: The Way Ahead in a Challenging Social Environment

Facilitator(s):
Meghmala Tarafdar, Associate Professor, Queensborough Community College Read More

Would you like to explore some strategies for fostering a sense of belonging in your online pedagogy? A growing body of literature highlights the need for faculty-student and student-student interaction in order to create an inclusive atmosphere in the classroom. Differences in communication styles often pose some challenges in class participation, collaboration, and interpretation of information in an online environment. Cultural factors have a significant impact on students’ self-learning, group interaction, and communication styles. By creating an inclusive atmosphere, faculty can promote greater self-awareness, deepen intercultural sensitivity, and encourage meaningful interaction and collaboration among diverse groups. The goal of the session is to foster an understanding of diverse communication patterns which is critical to the academic success of culturally and linguistically diverse student population.

Trauma-informed Leadership Starts with You
Track: Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference 

Facilitator(s):
Vanessa Nisperos, Associate Director, School of Professional Studies Read More

The Academy for Community Behavioral Health, part of the CUNY School of Professional Studies’ Office of Professional Education and Workplace Learning (PEWL), equips New York City non-profit social service providers with tools to proactively address behavioral health. By working with social service providers, we advance relevant, accessible, and effective behavioral health care where people live, work, learn, and seek help. In 2023, the Academy has piloted a non-credit certificate program in Trauma Informed Organizational Practice that was co-designed with leaders, supervisors, and staff from more than 15 community-based organizations in NYC. The course bridges emerging frameworks on trauma-informed care with evidence-based practices to equip leaders and supervisors to implement meaningful practice change.

In this workshop, the Academy will share its approach to trauma-informed leadership, including by introducing trauma-informed care principles, helpful practices for leaders, and lessons from the pilot program. Participants will explore the impacts of workplace trauma and learn meaningful strategies to mitigate trauma impacts as leaders. We will explore the primary roles of self and community care to improve relational practices and explore strategies to bring trauma-informed care into the workplace.

Lunch Break: 12:15PM – 1:30PM

Session 3: 1:30PM – 2:30PM 

Embracing Change:  Workshop for Managers
Track: Management Essentials: Influence, Implement and Manage Change 

Facilitator(s):
Geralyn Cappelli, Adjunct Lecturer, Baruch College Read More

This presentation will discuss the fundamentals of change and the fear associated with change-related activities.  Participants will be guided through the steps needed to implement an effective change campaign.  This includes how to manage people through the entire process from change, transition to the new normal.  Tips will be discussed on how to build a change ready culture.

10 Ways to Improve Self Care and Mindset for Higher Education Professionals
Track: Health & Wellness: Strategies for Success

Facilitator(s):
Elizabeth Klein, Hunter College
Dr. Gina Riley, Program Director and Faculty Advisor, Hunter College
Kenny Hirschmann, Manager at the Frankfort Center of Learning and Scholarly Technologies, Hunter College Read More

When was the last time that you focused on yourself? With academic, personal and creative demands looming above our heads, it is ever so important to focus on oneself in a positive and productive way.

In this presentation, we will review ways that higher education professionals can utilize self-care practices to optimize professional growth, to increase and sustain inner motivation and to experience joy through gratitude, mediation exercises focused on relaxation before writing, teaching or presenting, principles of positive psychology, collegiality (and finding warm interactions in unexpected places), growth mindset and realistic goal setting. This session will promote inviting the audience to participate. At the end of the session, participants will create one intention (or goal) toward self-care. Dr. Gina Riley is a Program Leader, Senior Faculty Fellow, ACERT, author, co-president of a NYSATE/NYACTE and is a licensed educational psychologist. She is known for her work and her magnetic energy. Kenny Hirschmann is a creative and thoughtful instructional designer, Yoga teacher and author. He is currently completing his Ph.d at Columbia Teacher’s College. Elizabeth Klein is a professional and program leader for the D75 Teaching Fellows program – concentration on preparing teacher candidates to teach students with multiple disabilities, behavioral disorders and mental health concerns. She is a trained restorative justice facilitator and has conducted workshops and professional development sessions on restorative justice, trauma and creative use of technology, reading and writing. She is also an ACERT Faculty Fellow.

Simulation as a Tool to Inclusivity and Consensus
Track: Technology as a Bridge to Consensus

Facilitator(s):
Renee Wright, Chair & Associate Professor, York College
Maureen Becker, Dean of Health Sciences & Professional Programs and Interim Dean, School of Business and Information Systems, York College
Zena Cooper, Clinical Coordinator & Clinical Professor, York College
Clover Hutchinson, Assistant Professor, York College
David Hornung, Assistant Professor, York College
Azzie Forbes, Director of BSSW Social Work Practicum Education & Doctoral Lecturer, York College
Jasmine Bratton-Robinson, Assistant Professor, York College Read More

In today’s fast-paced, ever changing Healthcare arena is of utmost importance for our graduating students to be career ready, entering the workforce hitting the ground running. Therefore, the development of interpersonal skills and communication that come with practice and building confidence are essential. Standardized patients are commonly used in healthcare training but have limited use due to high costs, accessibility, customization, and ability to replicate.  However, the use of technology has and is changing all this.

The use of mixed-reality virtual simulations as standardized patients has been increasingly used to give students access to the situations that they may encounter in the clinical field.  It not only fosters needed skills because of the immersive and risk-free atmosphere provided, it enables diversity and inclusion with avatars ranging from child to seniors, a variety of genders and representation of an array of cultures and ethnicities. Also, it allows students to sharpen their skills in identifying nonverbal cues and responding to them. Using virtual reality simulations improves self-confidence and knowledge of procedures, effectively preventing the risk of medical errors that cause patient harm every year, while in many ways reduced costs of medical training at the same time (Kleinheksel & Ritzhaupt, 2017).

Leading the Ship or Shifting to Lead
Track: Executive Leadership: Be a Leader Who Makes a Difference

Facilitator(s):
Sharon James, Trainer Read More

This session will show leaders how to make leadership changes that will positively enhance their professional and personal growth. Each shift will change the leader’s trajectory and set them up for new and exciting achievements, ultimately strengthening and sustaining their ability to impact those they lead.

2:45PM – 3:45PM

Closing Keynote
Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Shaquiea Sykes, Director of Racial Equity Initiatives, The Office of Equity & Inclusion @ NYC Department of Social Services
Duane Parnell, CUNY LEADS Neurodiversity Job Developer @ CUNY
Kassandra Pierre, Vice President at JP Morgan Chase in Global Payments Operations

End of Day 2

Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities

Our Fall/Winter 2023 Course Catalog is now available. Interested employees can complete the registration form to register now for upcoming sessions.

The cost of attending a session ranges from $75 to $275 per person. Before registering for any professional development courses, staff must have their supervisor’s approval.  There is a maximum number of 25 participants per session, so do not hesitate to register! All additional registrants will be placed on a waitlist and will be informed if a spot opens. For any additional questions, please contact University.Training@cuny.edu.