Monday, October 12 - Friday, October 16, 2020
The VCU Office of the Ombudsperson is excited to announce a week-long virtual celebration of National Conflict Resolution Day. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual full day of speakers and activities has shifted to a completely online format. During the celebration week, new videos and resources will be posted each day, culminating in a keynote address and interactive Zoom session on Thursday, October 15, which is national Conflict Resolution Day. This year's event features information, discussions and resources about conflict resolution from VCU leaders and national experts, as well as an interactive Zoom session for participants.
Learn more about the 2020 virtual event below.
VCU Proclamation
Gail Hackett, Ph.D., VCU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
History and Importance of National Conflict Resolution Day
Peter Buckley, M.D., Dean, School of Medicine and Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, VCU Health
VCU’s Commitment
Michael Rao, Ph.D., President, VCU and VCU Health System
"Dignity: The Root of All Conflict?"
Allison Monyei Whaley, J.D., University Ombuds for Staff, Clemson University
Allison Monyei Whaley serves as the University Ombudsman for Staff at Clemson University. Independence, neutrality, and confidentiality have characterized her work as Ombudsman in the role as shuttle diplomat, facilitator, mediator, and coach.
"Things You Can Learn from your Ombudsman About Conflict, Trust and Accountability"
LaCrisia "Cris" Gilbert, Organizational Ombudsman, National University
As Organizational Ombudsman for National University, Gilbert serves faculty, staff, and students as issues arise. Gilbert offers guided facilitations, mediations through the University legal department, and she also oversees the more informal processes to bring parties to resolutions. Colleagues describe Gilberts as "an effective teacher, practitioner, and leader in the profession of mediation."
"COVID-19 Pandemic: Pursuing Advocacy and Fairness During Challenging Times"
William E. King, University Ombudsperson, Virginia Commonwealth University
William E. King has 36 years of higher education experience, at five institutions throughout the United States. The past 25 years he has spent as an organizational ombudsperson. He is a Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioner. Mr. King’s background and experiences in mediation and dispute resolution in an academic environment will be an invaluable resource at VCU and ensure that our campus remains one of collegiality, openness and inclusion.
Keynote Address: "Changing the Context of Conflict"
L. Trey Wilson, Facilitator, Actor, Writer and Director
L. Trey Wilson is an actor, writer, director and facilitator. Originally from Chicago, IL. he now resides in Los Angeles, CA. He has facilitated conversations regarding race, gender, culture and sexuality for corporations and MBA programs across the country and abroad, (Canada, Israel and Australia). He is the recipient of various writing awards including, the NAACP Award, 2 GLAAD Awards, The Ovation Award and The Critics Choice Award. He has also been featured on NPR's All Things Considered.
Interactive Activity via Zoom
Noon - 1:30 P.M.
Registration Opening Soon
Closing Remarks and Additional Resources on Conflict Resolution
William E. King, University Ombudsperson, Virginia Commonwealth University