SBU Ombuds Office Is Hosting Workshops Throughout April

The Stony Brook University Ombuds Office is hosting three new workshops throughout the month of April.

The Ombuds is an impartial and independent resource for any individual within the university community seeking assistance or information in pursuit of the resolution of a concern or problem related to their life or work at the university. It is a safe place to come to share your concerns, gather accurate and relevant information, and explore options and strategies for resolution.

The April workshops include:

Bridging Cultural Gaps: Communication Across Cultures (1 hour)
This in-person workshop is intended to reduce misunderstandings and conflict by improving cultural awareness; foster a more inclusive, collaborative, and respectful environment; enhance personal growth by challenging assumptions about the "right" ways of doing things; help build stronger, more trusting relationships; develop more effective, empathetic communication skills; and support both personal and professional success.

April 1- Frey Hall, Rm. 105 (West Campus) - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
April 22 - HSC (Health Sciences Center) Level 2, Rm. 310 - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

Feedback: The Power of Words to Improve Performance in Yourself and Others (1 hour)
We all know feedback is essential for growth, but why is it so hard to accept? Based on the book Thanks for the Feedback by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen, this workshop shifts the focus from giving feedback to also receiving feedback. You'll learn how to navigate emotional triggers that could make you feel defensive and turn off your listening. This is not just about communication. It's a chance to accelerate personal and professional development. The workshop is in-person only.

April 8 - Frey Hall, Rm. 105 (West Campus) - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
April 29 - HSC (Health Sciences Center) Level 2, Rm. 310 - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

The Power of Curiosity (1 hour) - In person and Zoom
Did you know that curiosity can increase knowledge, drive engagement and build trusting relationships? It enhances problem solving, reduces bias and de-escalates conflict. Curiosity creates a collaborative environment of belonging and respect. This workshop will identify the barriers to curiosity, build our emotional literacy, participate in a reframing exercise and learn how teams can benefit from curiosity.

April 10 - Frey Hall, Rm. 205 (West Campus) - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
April 24 - HSC (Health Sciences Center) Level 2, Rm. 101 - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
April 28 - Zoom - 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

Other workshops are also available to schedule. Upon request, workshops will be customized for your department, class or work group. Download a complete list of workshop titles and descriptions.

The Ombuds Office also hosts a weekly chat Wednesdays at 1 pm. The purpose of the chat is to learn how the Ombuds Office can be a resource for you, discuss general issues about your work or study and learn about topics of interest such as effective and respectful communication, resolving problems or conflict and any other topics to assist you in improving the work or academic environment.

Registration for the chat is not required. Join the chat here. Note that the chat will be canceled for the month of April due to the workshops and a conference.

For more information, visit the Ombuds website.