CFAES Give Today
Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

CFAES

CFAES Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workshops

Professional Development Workshops

Workshops are facilitated by Dr. Leo Taylor, Program Manager in the CFAES Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, unless otherwise specified. They are scheduled throughout the year and address a variety of diversity, equity, and inclusion topics. All public virtual programs are free and open to anyone, regardless of affiliation with Ohio State.

On Demand Programs

Free on-demand virtual and in-person programs are available for individual units, departments, and organizations within CFAES, including Extension and field research stations.

  • In-house programs: If you are a member of the CFAES community and would like to schedule a program for your unit, contact Dr. Taylor at taylor.3408@osu.edu. Please include 1) desired date of delivery (please provide several options), 2) desired topic(s) to be addressed, and 3) approximate number of participants.
  • Guest lectures: Dr. Taylor delivers guest lectures on diversity, equity, and inclusion topics for CFAES faculty. If you are not affiliated with CFAES and would like to have Dr. Taylor provide a program for your unit, you may contact him for recommendations.

Accessibility

We strive to make all events accessible to everyone. All virtual programs are presented with automated closed captions. If you wish to request traditional CART services or other accommodations, please contact Laura Akgerman at akgerman.4@osu.edu or 614-292-0622. Requests submitted two weeks in advance will generally allow us to provide seamless access, but the university will make every effort to meet every request. 

 

PLEASE NOTE: To foster a brave space for learning, workshops are NOT recorded

 


 

Upcoming CFAES DEI Webinars/Workshops

Workshops are added to the schedule on a rolling basis. Please check back for additional dates and programs.

Note: Some sessions are internal and require valid OSU credentials to access. Sessions designated as "open" are accessible to anyone regardless of affiliation with The Ohio State University. 

March 2024 

Date Time (ET) Workshop Title        

Tues 3/26

11am-1:00pm Responding to Microaggressions: Bystander Intervention Strategies that Work for Everyone

April 2024 

Date Time (ET) Workshop Title        
Fri 4/5 10am-11am

Understanding ADHD (THIS WEBINAR WILL BE RECORDED)

Wed 4/10 11am-12:30pm The Language of Inclusion: Pronouns and Other Gendered Words

Thurs 4/18

12pm-1:30pm

Responding to Microaggressions: Bystander Intervention Strategies that Work for Everyone 

Click here to register via BuckeyeLearn (select desired session) - must have valid OSU credentials.

Tues 4/23 2-3:30pm The Gift of Accountability: How to Respond When Someone Calls You In/Out for Causing Harm

 

 

Workshop Descriptions

(in alphabetical order)


 

Difficult Conversations: Communicating Effectively Across Difference

Have you ever engaged in a conversation about an uncomfortable or sensitive topic with someone who is very different from you and didn't know how to approach it? Conversations between people with different views and lived experiences can go awry and lead to frustration and alienation. In this 2-hour workshop participants will be provided with strategies for engaging in challenging conversations.  The latter part of the program provides participants with an opportunity to apply what they have learned in a breakout room activity. Participants will need access to a webcam and mic to engage in the latter part of the session. Please note: this workshop will not be recorded.


 

Exploding Myths About Transgender and Nonbinary People

Although transgender and nonbinary people have gained significant visibility over the past decade, numerous misconceptions and stereotypes still exist and create environments that are unwelcoming or even hostile to people with gender identities that fall outside of cisnormativity (i.e., the belief that being cisgender, or not transgender, is the “normal” and “correct” way of being). Beliefs rooted in long-held myths about people who have for centuries defied conventional gender norms must be challenged and replaced in order to create environments that are inclusive of all genders, not just those who are cisgender. In this 90-minute workshop we will cover basic terminology and differentiate identities related to gender and sex that frequently get confused. We will address several common myths and misconceptions about transgender and non-binary people and identify strategies for creating welcoming and inclusive environments for people of all genders, including those who challenge cisnormative expectations. Ways that cisgender people can serve as allies to transgender and nonbinary people will be identified.

After participating in this program participants will be able to:
• Differentiate gender identity from sex and sexual orientation and a variety of gender identities
• Recognize the diversity and nuances of transgender and non-binary lived realities
• Reject common myths and misconceptions about transgender and non-binary people
• Serve as an ally to transgender and non-binary people through small actions that can have a big impact

Upcoming sessions: 

Monday, June 10, 2024, 12:00pm-1:30pm ET

Click here to register on BuckeyeLearn (select the desired session)

 


 

 

Gender Demystified: Creating Inclusive Spaces for People of All Genders

Whether you're transgender, cisgender, or agender, you have a gender identity. Frequently confused with gender is sex, but these two terms refer to very different identities. And what about sexual orientation? How does that fit in with gender and sex? Understandably, these identities can be confusing and nuanced. This interactive 2-hour workshop will explore various aspects of gender and sexual identity and examine whether binary models of gender and sex accurately represent human diversity. Participants will learn key vocabulary, gain a better understanding of their own identities through a self-reflection exercise, and identify ways to strive for allyship with transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Participants will leave the session better equipped to create environments that are inclusive of all genders, not just men and women. Participants will have plenty of opportunities for questions and dialogue. 

 

 


 

 

Implicit Associations, Insidious Assumptions: Unintended Manifestations of Bias in Everyday Life

This 90-minute workshop will provide an introduction to unconscious associations that can lead to an affinity toward or prejudice against some people (implicit bias). We will explore how our socialization process leads to the formation of conscious and unconscious associations, stereotypes, and prejudices that influence how we treat and view others in unintended ways. Participants will learn common ways that bias shows up in daily life and identify strategies that can help reduce the impact of implicit biases. During the session participants will complete and discuss an Implicit Association Test (IAT) – a tool that can help users identify hidden associations that can fuel bias. 

After participating in this program participants will be able to:
• Describe associations and how they are formed
• Understand how associations can lead to implicit bias
• Begin identifying ways the socialization process has resulted in the formation of “experience filters” through which we perceive others

Upcoming sessions: 

More dates in April.


 

 

Introduction to Microaggressions: Small Actions that Have a Big Impact

Microaggressions are common, often subtle expressions of bias, many times initiated unintentionally and unconsciously that can have serious impacts on recipients including shortening life expectancy. In this 90-minute workshop, participants will learn about common microaggressions and the hidden, harmful messages they send. Participants will practice differentiating intention from impact using real-life scenarios. Finally, participants will be provided with strategies for responding to being called out/in for being the microaggression initiator. 


 

 

Introduction to Neurodivergence

Staff from the Ohio State University Employee Assistance Program will provide an overview of neurodivergence.

After attending this session participants will be able to:

  • Describe what neurodivergence is and why it exists.
  • Recognize the diversity of experiences and identities within the neurodivergent community.
  • Value the unique gifts, abilities, and skills neurodivergent people possess because of their experiences living in a society primarily designed for neurotypical brains.
  • Better understand and engage with neurodivergent people in a variety of contexts.
  • Function as an ally to neurodivergent people by countering misinformation with facts and responding to microaggressions as an active bystander.

Click here to watch the replay


 

More Than Two Sexes? An Exploration of Intersex Identities 

In honor of International Intersex Awareness Day this 75-minute webinar will provide an overview of what it means to be intersex and some of the complex issues surrounding the experiences of people who are born with one of several intersex conditions. The webinar will address the difference between biological sex and gender, why the term "hermaphrodite" when referring to humans is outdated and offensive, and common microaggressions that inadvertently harm intersex people will be identified. Participants will leave with recommendations for how people who are not intersex can serve as allies to members of the intersex community.

 


 

The Gift of Accountability: How to Respond When Someone Calls You In/Out for Causing Harm

We all do it - say or do something, often unintentionally, that causes harm to someone. Maybe it's just a slip of the tongue or a microaggression. Sometimes, we're lucky and an ally intervenes to let us know what we did that caused harm and why. This is an act of generosity and creates an opportunity for personal growth and connection and how it’s received determines the outcome of the conversation. So, how do you accept the gift of accountability in a way that fosters trust? This 90-minute workshop will address best practices for engaging in accountability conversations when you've been called in/out for causing harm. 

Learning Outcomes:

After attending this workshop, you will be better prepared to:

  • Sit with, rather than run from, the discomfort of accountability conversations.
  • Listen to feedback without getting defensive.
  • Engage in uncomfortable conversations that foster trust.
  • Extend grace to yourself when you make mistakes.
  • Navigate difficult conversations about other topics.

Upcoming sessions (click the date to register): 

Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 2-3:30pm ET


 

The Language of Inclusion: Pronouns and Other Gendered Words

Pronouns are tools for effective and efficient communication, and their intentional or unintentional misuse can cause confusion and harm. Using gender-affirming pronouns and avoiding unnecessary use of other gendered words is essential to creating spaces that are safe, inviting, and inclusive of people of all genders. This 90-minute workshop will address why pronouns matter, the history of singular they/them, neo-pronouns such as ze/zir, and alternatives to other gendered language.

Upcoming sessions (click the date to register):

Wednesday, April 10, 2024, 11am-12:30pm ET

 


 

Responding to Microaggressions: Bystander Intervention Strategies that Work for Everyone

All too often we witness subtle comments or behaviors rooted in bias that cause harm to others, sometimes unintentionally and frequently directed toward people from marginalized social identity groups. Have you ever witnessed a bias incident such as a microaggression and wanted to intervene, but didn't know what to say or do? Becoming an active bystander involves recognizing a bias incident and saying or doing something to stop the harm. Anyone can become an active bystander and learn to address bias in everyday interactions. In this 2-hour workshop, we will explore some of the most commonly encountered microaggressions and identify tools participants can use in daily life. Participants will practice what they have learned using real-life scenarios. 

Learning Outcomes:

After participating in this program you will be able to:

  • Describe why and how an active bystander can respond to any microaggression
  • Articulate the various factors that must be taken into consideration when deciding to take action
  • Identify strategies that best align with their strengths and personality
  • Practice utilizing strategies using real examples from everyday life

Upcoming sessions (click the date to register): 

Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 11am-1pm ET

 


 

Understanding ADHD


Staff from the Ohio State University Employee Assistance Program will provide an overview of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

After attending this session you will be able to:

  • Describe what ADHD is and why it exists.
  • Recognize the diversity of experiences and identities ADHD within the community.
  • Value the unique gifts, abilities, and skills people with ADHD possess because of their experiences living in a society primarily designed for neurotypical brains.
  • Better understand and engage with people who have ADHD in a variety of contexts. 
  • Function as an ally to people with ADHD by countering misinformation with facts and responding to microaggressions as an active bystander.
  • Better support students, colleagues, friends, and family who have ADHD.

Upcoming sessions (click the date to register): 

Friday, April 5, 2024, 10am-11am ET


 

Recent Select Past Events:

Date Workshop Title
May 19 How Bias Can Thwart Equitable Hiring Decisions
May 23 Introduction to Microaggressions: Small Actions that Have a Big Impact  
Jul 13 Inclusive Citations for Researchers - watch the replay here
Jul 28 Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack: How Privilege Manifests in Everyday Life
Sept 26 The Language of Inclusion: Pronouns and Other Gendered Words
Oct 26 More Than Two Sexes? An Exploration of Intersex Identities
Nov 13 Implicit Associations, Insidious Assumptions: Unintended Manifestations of Bias in Everyday Life
Dec 8 Exploding Myths About Transgender and Nonbinary People
Jan 9 Responding to Microaggressions: Bystander Intervention Strategies that Work for Everyone