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.
Please check back later for the listing of Fall 2024 workshops
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 that foster understanding and trust. 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
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 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
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.
Learning outcomes
After attending this workshop participants will be able to:
- Define "microaggression."
- Recognize commonly encountered microaggressions.
- Differentiate intent from the impact of microaggressions.
- Reduce the likelihood of initiating a microaggression.
Introduction to Neurodivergence
Staff from the Ohio State University Employee Assistance Program will provide an overview of neurodivergence.
Learning Outcomes
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. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies that can be utilized in a variety of conversations.
Learning Outcomes
After attending this workshop, you will be better prepared to:
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Sit with, rather than run from, the discomfort of accountability conversations.
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Listen to feedback without getting defensive.
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Engage in uncomfortable conversations that foster trust.
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Extend grace to yourself when you make mistakes.
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Navigate difficult conversations about other topics.
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.
Responding to Microaggressions: Bystander Intervention Strategies that Work for Everyone
All too often we witness subtle comments or behaviors frequently 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 90-minute* 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.
*some sessions are 2-hours long to allow for an optional extra 30-minutes of practice and dialogue at the end of the workshop. Participants are encouraged to stay but are welcome to leave at any time.
Learning Outcomes:
After participating in this program you will be able to:
- Recognize common microaggressions that target minoritized populations.
- Articulate the various factors that must be taken into consideration when deciding to take action as an active bystander.
- Identify intervention strategies that best align with individual strengths and personality, thus reducing the likelihood of hesitation.
- Utilize intervention strategies to address microaggression examples from everyday life.
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):
Click here to watch the recording
Recent Select Past Events:
| Date | Workshop Title |
| Jul 13 | Inclusive Citations for Researchers - watch the replay here |
| Jul 28 | Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack: How Privilege Manifests in Everyday Life |
| Oct 26 | More Than Two Sexes? An Exploration of Intersex Identities |