Education & Development

Foundation-level courses provide a broad overview of inclusive excellence (IE) concepts, assuming minimal prior knowledge. These entry-level courses are designed to introduce participants to key IE concepts, helping them acquire basic knowledge and become familiar with essential definitions, procedures and tasks.
 
Upon completing foundational courses, participants are expected to demonstrate actions that reflect an understanding and appreciation of IE principles. The ‘Foundations of Inclusive Excellence’ course is a prerequisite for all offerings in this stage (except the OIE overview).

OIE Overview (45 mins)

Prerequisite: NA

Overview: Not sure what the Office for Inclusive Excellence (OIE) does? This presentation provides an overview of OIE purpose, programs and services offered by OIE at SHU.

Key Learning Objective:

• Review the purpose, programs and services offered by OIE at SHU.

Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): NA

Overview: In this foundational workshop, participants will explore Sacred Heart University’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) as core principles of Inclusive Excellence. The session provides a shared understanding of DEIB concepts, including SHU’s definitions, the importance of pursuing DEIB as a best practice and the relationship between personal and systemic identities.

Participants will reflect on their own intersecting identities, examine how power and privilege operate in shaping campus experiences, and learn actionable skills such as active listening and storytelling to build empathy and foster belonging. Additionally, participants will gain insight into SHU’s DEIB policies and resources to support their efforts in cultivating an equitable and inclusive campus community.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the foundational principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) as defined by Sacred Heart University (SHU).
• Explore why prioritizing DEIB initiatives is essential for creating equitable and supportive educational and professional environments.
• Examine how individual identities and cultural experiences shape interactions and relationships within the SHU community.
• Analyze the role of power dynamics and intersecting identities in fostering or hindering inclusive excellence.
• Practice active listening and storytelling techniques to build empathy and promote understanding across diverse backgrounds.
• Identify SHU-specific policies, procedures, and resources to support DEIB initiatives in daily practices.

Uncovering Biases and Stereotypes (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles

Overview: This interactive session will help individuals become more self-aware in their interactions with students, co-workers and community members. Participants will learn how to identify their biases through group discussion, scenario-based gameplay and self-reflection. Participants will learn practical strategies to mitigate the impact of bias and stereotypes.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Define the concepts of bias, including implicit and explicit bias, and stereotypes, as well as their roots in personal, cultural and systemic contexts.
• Recognize how bias and stereotypes manifest in academic and workplace settings, affecting interactions, decisions and institutional culture.
• Engage in self-reflection activities to uncover personal biases and understand their influence on perceptions and behaviors.
• Develop practical tools for challenging and disrupting bias, such as active self-awareness, inclusive practices and collaborative decision-making.
• Analyze real-world scenarios to practice identifying and confronting bias and stereotypes in higher education contexts.

Eliminating Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment (75 mins)

Prerequisite(s): NA

Overview: This session addresses the concepts of discrimination, discriminatory harassment and retaliation in the SHU community. The content focuses on developing a safe and respectful environment, what to do if you experience or witness discrimination or discriminatory harassment and how SHU responds to claims of such behavior.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Define discrimination, discriminatory harassment and retaliation in the context of Sacred Heart University (SHU) and understand the role they play in fostering a safe, inclusive and respectful campus environment.
• Recognize behaviors and actions that constitute discrimination, discriminatory harassment and retaliation. They will also develop practical strategies for appropriately responding to and reporting these incidents when they witness or experience them.
• Identify SHU’s institutional policies, procedures and resources for addressing claims of discrimination and harassment, as well as SHU’s commitment to eliminating such behavior through clear processes and support systems.

Communicating Across Different Identities (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles

Overview: In today’s diverse academic environment, effective communication across different identities is essential for fostering a truly inclusive and respectful community. This interactive workshop will equip Sacred Heart University faculty and staff with the knowledge and skills to communicate more inclusively with students and colleagues from varied backgrounds, identities and experiences.

Building on the core principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) covered in the Foundations of Inclusive Excellence course, this session focuses on practical strategies for navigating communication challenges related to social identities such as race, gender, disability and socio-economic status. Participants will explore how intersectionality and power dynamics shape interactions in higher education and will engage in role-playing activities to practice inclusive communication techniques.

Key Learning Objectives

• Explain how social identities and power influence communication in academic settings.
• Identify common barriers to effective communication, including implicit bias, cultural misunderstandings and assumptions.
• Learn and apply practical strategies for active listening, empathy, cultural humility and non-verbal communication.
• Engage in scenario-based role play to practice and refine communication techniques in real-world higher education contexts.

Why This Session Matters
Inclusive communication is at the heart of building a sense of belonging and trust within the university community. Faculty and staff who can communicate effectively across identities not only enhance their interpersonal relationships but also contribute to a more equitable, respectful and supportive learning environment for all students and colleagues.

Proficient-level courses delve deeper than foundational courses and assume participants are familiar with foundational topics and have demonstrated actions reflecting an understanding and appreciation of IE. These courses are designed to help participants develop a multifaceted and interconnected understanding of IE and apply this knowledge consistently in increasingly complex and diverse situations.

At this level, participants are expected to have a solid grasp of IE concepts, enabling them to confidently apply their knowledge, solve problems and justify their reasoning. The complexity of tasks increases, requiring skills in planning, justification and advanced reasoning. These courses also explore how IE concepts and procedures can be effectively used to achieve results. All courses in this stage have two to three prerequisites.

Navigating Difficult Conversations (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: In this workshop, faculty and staff will develop the skills needed to navigate difficult conversations on sensitive topics such as identity, race, power and bias within the higher education context.

Participants will learn practical strategies for managing emotions, fostering open communication and creating inclusive, respectful dialogues. Through interactive role-playing activities, participants will gain confidence in handling challenging discussions with students, colleagues and staff. This workshop will equip participants with actionable tools to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment for all.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Explain what constitutes a difficult conversation in the higher education context, particularly around sensitive topics such as identity, race, gender and power dynamics.
• Explore the consequences of avoiding these conversations, including misunderstandings, perpetuating harmful behaviors and fostering a toxic environment.
• Analyze techniques for managing emotional responses during challenging conversations, such as mindfulness, empathy and self-regulation.
• Acquire strategies for fostering productive dialogue, including active listening, using "I" statements and asking open-ended questions to ensure clarity and mutual understanding.
• Practice navigating difficult conversations using realistic scenarios that reflect common higher education challenges, such as addressing bias, microaggressions or misunderstandings with students or colleagues.
• Reflect on how to implement the skills learned to foster inclusive, respectful and supportive environments within the SHU community.

Navigating Microaggressions: How to Be an Upstander (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: In this interactive workshop, participants will define microaggressions, explore their sources and impacts, navigate the nuances and complexities of intervention as an upstander and develop strategies to support learners and colleagues through experiences of marginalization. The session will also include approaches about how to respond if you experience or are accused of such behavior.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Define and identify the three types of microaggressions—microinsults, microinvalidations and microassaults—and understand their sources and impacts on individuals and communities.
• Analyze how microaggressions affect inclusion, belonging and the overall campus climate in higher education.
• Explore strategies for intervening when witnessing microaggressions, including the use of interruption, questioning, education and echoing support for the targeted individual.
• Gain tools to respond effectively when experiencing or being accused of microaggressions, fostering accountability and growth.
• Commit to allyship by validating the experiences of marginalized groups and contributing to a culture of inclusion and respect.

Interculturally Inclusive Interpersonal Communication (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s):  Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; and Communicating Across Different Identities 

Overview: This intermediate-level workshop equips faculty and staff with the skills needed to navigate communication across diverse cultural backgrounds. Participants will explore the challenges of intercultural communication in higher education and learn practical strategies for fostering inclusive, respectful and effective interactions with colleagues, students and staff. Topics covered include managing anxiety and uncertainty in cross-cultural conversations, recognizing and addressing unconscious bias and developing empathy and cultural humility. 

Through interactive activities such as case studies, role-play simulations and group discussions, participants will reflect on their own communication styles and create a personalized action plan to apply these strategies in their daily roles. Whether you're engaging with international students, collaborating with colleagues or leading a diverse team, this workshop provides tools to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. 

Key Learning Outcomes: 

• Apply intercultural communication theories to real-life professional interactions.
• Identify barriers to effective communication across cultures and learn strategies to overcome them.
• Develop skills in mindful listening, cultural humility, empathy and conflict resolution to foster inclusivity in meetings, student interactions and team collaborations.

Facilitating Inclusive & Accessible Meetings (75 mins)

Prerequisite(s):  Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; and Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes

Overview: This workshop equips faculty and staff with the tools to design and facilitate meetings that are inclusive and accessible to all participants. Building on the concepts introduced in the Foundations and Uncovering Bias workshops, participants will explore how to manage power dynamics, mitigate biases in real-time and ensure accessibility for diverse needs. Through collaborative activities and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to prepare, run and follow up on meetings that promote equitable participation. 

Key Learning Objectives: 

• Identify common barriers to inclusivity and accessibility in meetings.
• Examine best practices for preparing inclusive agendas and accommodating diverse communication styles.
• Develop techniques for managing power dynamics and ensuring all voices are heard.
• Implement post-meeting feedback loops to continuously improve meeting inclusivity. 

Safe Space (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles; and Eliminating Discrimination & Discriminatory Harassment

Overview: Designed for faculty and staff, this workshop explores how to help members of the LGBTQIAGEIP+ Community (acronym explained via workshop) to feel a sense of belonging here at SHU. Through daring and vulnerable dialogue, this workshop explores the rejection and trauma many community members have experienced to hearing how folx find and receive belonging. This workshop will support participants in being a safe place to land, whether the community member is your colleague or student.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Explore how to support Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer+ students and communities;
• Describe some of the issues facing LGBTQ individuals;
• Identify various LGBTQ+ resources on and off campus;
• Discuss your role in ensuring our campus is an LGBTQ+ inclusive place.

Languages and Symbols Across Cultures (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence Principles; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Eliminating Discrimination & Discriminatory Harassment

Overview: Participants with take an in-depth look at the ways in which language and symbols are utilized and its role in shaping and reflecting social and cultural practices. We’ll cover how language shapes our perception of the world and examine power and ideology in language. Finally, participants develop skills to use language to challenge inequalities and dominant ideologies that use language and symbols to exert power and control.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Examine how language and symbols shape and reflect societal and cultural norms, contributing to perceptions, biases and ideologies.
• Explore the effects of harmful language and symbols on individuals and communities, including their role in perpetuating systemic inequities.
• Apply actionable methods to disrupt biased narratives and promote inclusive language and symbol usage in their personal and professional spaces.
• Gain tools to create environments where language and symbols are used to build inclusivity and affirm the diverse identities and experiences of all community members.

Inclusive Excellence in Generative AI (90 mins)

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: This intermediate workshop explores the ethical challenges, biases and opportunities associated with Generative AI (GenAI) in higher education. Through the lens of Inclusive Excellence, DEIB and accessibility, participants will critically examine how AI systems can either support or hinder efforts to create a more inclusive campus. Participants will engage in group activities, analyzing real-world ethical scenarios involving AI use in academic and administrative contexts, and will leave with strategies to implement GenAI ethically and inclusively in their roles at Sacred Heart University. 

Key Learning Objectives: 

• Identify and analyze the ethical challenges and biases inherent in Generative AI (GenAI) systems, including issues related to bias, accessibility and equity.
• Examine how AI systems can either hinder or advance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) in higher education.
• Explore how to critically assess AI technologies and their impact on marginalized groups, ensuring alignment with Inclusive Excellence principles.
• Gain tools to implement GenAI systems ethically and inclusively, including strategies for bias auditing, accessibility enhancement and fostering AI literacy.
• Apply DEIB principles to analyze and address ethical dilemmas involving AI in academic and administrative contexts through group activities. 

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy/Andragogy (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: This interactive workshop explores Culturally Responsive Pedagogy (CRP) and Culturally Responsive Andragogy (CRA) as essential frameworks for fostering inclusive, equitable and student-centered learning environments in higher education. Participants will examine the role of culture in teaching and learning, explore practical strategies for creating inclusive curricula and develop skills to engage with diverse learners effectively. Building on prior workshops, this session empowers faculty and staff to incorporate culturally responsive practices that validate students' lived experiences, challenge systemic inequities and enhance learning outcomes.

Key Learning Objectives

• Participants will define and distinguish culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP) and culturally responsive andragogy (CRA) for adult learners, recognizing the role of culture in shaping teaching and learning practices.
• Participants will analyze how cultural identity, power dynamics, and systemic inequities influence student engagement, belonging and academic success in higher education.
• Participants will identify practical approaches for creating inclusive curricula, designing equitable assessments and fostering classroom discussions that value students’ diverse identities, perspectives and lived experiences.
• Participants will reflect on their own biases, teaching practices and cultural competencies to develop action steps for implementing culturally responsive pedagogy/andragogy in their roles at SHU.

Inclusive Excellence in Universal Design for Learning (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: This interactive workshop explores Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework for fostering inclusive excellence in higher education. Participants will examine how UDL principles can reduce barriers, improve accessibility, and create equitable learning experiences for all students, including those with diverse abilities, backgrounds and learning preferences. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, participants will learn to proactively design courses, materials and assessments that align with the values of Inclusive Excellence.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will explore the three core principles of UDL—multiple means of engagement, representation and expression—and how they promote inclusivity and accessibility in teaching and learning environments.
• Participants will analyze how biases, stereotypes and traditional instructional practices can create barriers to learning for students with diverse needs, identities and abilities.
• Participants will identify practical methods for incorporating UDL principles into course materials, learning activities and assessments to ensure all students have equitable opportunities to succeed.
• Participants will reflect on their current teaching approaches and develop actionable steps to integrate UDL strategies that align with SHU's Inclusive Excellence values.

Inclusive Excellence in Community Engagement (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; and Communicating Across Different Identities

Overview: This workshop explores how Inclusive Excellence principles can be applied to community engagement initiatives to build equitable, authentic and mutually beneficial partnerships. Participants will learn to critically examine the power dynamics, biases and barriers that can arise in community-based work and will develop strategies to foster meaningful collaborations that prioritize inclusion, respect and shared outcomes. Through reflection, discussion and practical examples, participants will leave with tools to engage communities in ways that center equity and amplify diverse voices.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will explore the role of Inclusive Excellence in community partnerships, emphasizing equity, respect and shared responsibility in fostering authentic relationships.
• Participants will analyze how systemic inequities, power imbalances and unconscious biases can impact community engagement efforts and identify strategies to mitigate these challenges.
• Participants will learn practical methods to build trust, amplify underrepresented voices and ensure mutually beneficial outcomes when collaborating with community partners.
• Participants will reflect on their current approaches to community engagement and develop actionable steps to align their practices with the values of Inclusive Excellence.

Advanced-level courses focus on developing IE leadership capacity and exploring specific IE subtopics. These courses are designed to help participants synthesize, evaluate and generate strategic solutions that integrate diverse and inclusive perspectives to achieve equitable outcomes.

At this stage, participants move beyond proficiency by considering how their learning can be applied at SHU, in their communities and in broader societal contexts. Successful participants demonstrate a deep understanding of IE concepts, consistently engage in purposeful actions, handle complex situations and apply critical analysis. This level may also reflect expertise in the subject area, including nuanced application of IE principles. All courses in this stage have four to five prerequisites.

Power, Privilege, and Oppression (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; Navigating Microaggressions; and Interculturally Inclusive Communication

Overview:

This advanced workshop examines the interconnected systems of power, privilege and oppression and their impact on individuals, institutions and communities. Building on foundational concepts of Inclusive Excellence, participants will analyze how privilege and power operate across social identities and explore how systemic oppression perpetuates inequities in higher education. Through reflection, dialogue and practical strategies, participants will gain the tools to challenge oppressive systems and leverage their privilege to foster equitable and inclusive environments.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will develop a clear understanding of power, privilege and oppression as systemic and intersectional concepts that influence individual and collective experiences.
• Participants will explore how systems of privilege and oppression manifest within institutions, policies and practices, particularly in higher education settings, and their impact on marginalized communities.
• Participants will engage in self-reflection to identify their own areas of privilege and power, understanding how these influence their interactions, decision-making, and professional roles.
• Participants will gain practical tools and actionable strategies to challenge oppressive systems, advocate for equity and leverage their privilege to create inclusive spaces at Sacred Heart University and beyond.

Understanding and Addressing Racism (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; Communicating Across Different Identities; Navigating Microaggressions; and Navigating Difficult Conversations OR Interculturally Inclusive Communication

Overview:

This advanced workshop explores the root causes of racism, its historical and systemic foundations, and how it manifests in personal, institutional, and societal contexts. Participants will engage in critical reflection and dialogue to identify internalized biases, unlearn harmful narratives and examine the ways racism operates within higher education and beyond. Through an anti-racist framework, participants will gain strategies to actively recognize, challenge and address manifestations of racism in their roles, fostering equitable and inclusive spaces at Sacred Heart University.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will analyze the origins of racism, its structural and institutional manifestations and how it continues to perpetuate inequities across various systems, including higher education.
• Participants will critically reflect on their own biases and the ways racism—both overt and subtle—impacts interpersonal relationships, institutional policies and campus culture.
• Participants will learn practical tools to adopt an anti-racist mindset, including recognizing harmful narratives, engaging in difficult conversations about race and interrupting racism when it occurs.
• Participants will develop actionable steps to address and dismantle racism in their personal, professional and institutional roles, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable community.

Using Generative AI as a Tool to Advance Inclusive Excellence (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; Facilitating Inclusive & Accessible Meetings; Inclusive Excellence in Generative AI; and Understanding & Addressing Racism

Overview:

This advanced workshop explores the potential of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to promote inclusive excellence within higher education. Participants will examine how AI can be leveraged to create equitable learning environments, enhance accessibility and support diverse student needs. Through critical analysis and practical application, attendees will learn to utilize AI tools responsibly, addressing inherent biases and ensuring that technology integration aligns with the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of generative AI technologies and explore their potential applications to enhance curriculum design, assignment creation and student engagement.
• Participants will critically examine how generative AI can be utilized to promote inclusive excellence, considering both the opportunities and challenges it presents in fostering equitable learning environments.
• Participants will identify potential biases inherent in AI systems and develop strategies to mitigate these biases, ensuring that AI tools are used in ways that support diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Participants will explore practical methods for integrating AI tools to improve accessibility, such as generating alternative text for images and creating personalized learning experiences that cater to diverse student needs.

Data-Driven Inclusive Excellence Metrics (90 mins) Coming Soon

Prerequisite(s): Foundations of Inclusive Excellence; Uncovering Bias & Stereotypes; Interculturally Inclusive Communication; Power, Privilege & Oppression; and Understanding & Addressing Racism

Overview:

In this workshop, participants will explore the role of Inclusive Excellence (IE) metrics and how data can be used to measure, improve and drive progress in DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) efforts. Establishing measurable goals and tracking key metrics is essential for creating accountability, identifying trends and fostering transparency. Through hands-on activities and case studies, participants will learn how to identify relevant metrics, set benchmarks, establish baseline data and interpret findings to advance IE goals. By the end of this session, participants will leave equipped with strategies to promote equity and measurable institutional change at SHU.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Participants will understand the role of IE metrics in driving organizational accountability, tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement in DEIB efforts.
• Participants will learn how to establish baseline data, set benchmarks and identify meaningful IE metrics that align with institutional goals.
• Participants will develop skills to analyze data for patterns, inequities and trends to inform decision-making and measure the impact of IE initiatives.

Participants will gain strategies to use data effectively to advocate for inclusive policies, communicate progress and foster a culture of accountability and transparency.