Conflict Resolution

The Office of Student Conduct is dedicated to fostering an environment where individuals can learn to navigate and address conflict constructively. We aim to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge to effectively manage and resolve conflicts in various settings, whether it be personal, professional, or educational.

Four Objectives

• Communication: Enhancement of listening, empathetic, and communication skills.
• Comprehension: Understanding of foundational information on the causes and dynamics of conflict.
• Cultural Awareness: Respect for the identities, experiences, and backgrounds that impact conflict
• Critical Thinking: Analysis from multiple perspectives and devising effective solutions.

Resolution Options Offered

Informal Mediation

Informal mediation is to help participants better understand others’ viewpoints, better understand the conflict of the situation and collaboratively create a solution. Two or more participants voluntarily meet with a multi-partial facilitator to work through their conflict. As facilitators, representatives from the Office of Student Conduct neither adjudicate nor make decisions on the solution, but rather assist participants in navigating the discussion and in creating an agreement on how to move forward.

Conflict Coaching

Conflict coaching is an alternative option when a group conversation is not possible or preferred in navigating conflict. Conflict coaching is a voluntary one-on-one meeting between an individual and a facilitator from the Office of Student Conduct to provide space to discuss the conflict and set goals/objectives on the next best steps. The facilitator is a neutral party who will engage the participant in a reflective discussion and conflict skill-building.

Restorative Circles

Restorative circles are used to bring together individuals who were involved in or have been affected by conflict and/or harm in situations along with support participants. Guided by a facilitator from the Office of Student Conduct, all individuals will be able to have an open dialogue about the incident itself, what harm was done to the community and what steps are needed to work towards healing. Restorative Circles are voluntary, structured space to bring community together to foster empathetic, supportive and accountability focused conversations.