Beyond the Numbers: Foundations of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

This introductory workshop will allow participants to understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values of the university. Participants will explore and reflect on the role of identity in their personal and professional experiences. This session will also outline the relevant resources and opportunities on campus. For those taking BUILD courses to obtain a certificate, we encourage taking this session first.

Current Elective Courses Text:

If you have completed National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) or LGBTQ Safe Zone Project training on the UI campus and would like to receive credit towards your BUILD certificate, please email ddei-iesi@uiowa.edu to know the dates you completed the training. Once confirmed, we will validate participation through Learning and Development and send medallions to your campus address.

A Closer Look at Race in the U.S.

In this session, participants will discuss and define race and levels of racism and review research on how racism is perpetuated in today's society. We will also explore how our experience(s) influence our perceptions of others and develop strategies to support racial healing and racial equity.

ASC/BUILD: The Culture Behind Sexual Assault, Replacing Rape Culture with Consent Culture

This workshop is part of the Advocating for Safer Communities (ASC) certification program for people wanting to learn more or serve as allies and ambassadors for RVAP. The Culture Behind Sexual Assault interrogates how our society is set up to subtly and overtly support sexual violence. It offers participants a framework to challenge rape culture in their own lives. The session discusses the repercussions of not challenging rape culture, gives participants tools for critically examining language and culture, offers a model of affirmative consent and consent culture as a replacement for rape culture, and uses small group work to empower participants for personal growth. The program discusses affirmative consent practices in a sex-positive framework and offers students concrete examples of incorporating enthusiastic consent into their lives. (Cross-listed with BUILD

CFT: Equitable and Inclusive Pedagogy in Classroom

This training will discuss an inclusive and equitable pedagogy in course plans and instruction. We will then explore the dynamics of an inclusive and equitable learning community, examining its relationship with the inclusive course environment. The participants will be provided with a series of inclusive teaching strategies and will have the opportunity to examine their course syllabus from an inclusion and equity perspective. 

Note: This session is only open to UI instructors. Please bring the syllabus of a course you teach or have previously taught. 

Connecting with our Veteran and Military Connected Community

This course will help the University of Iowa faculty and staff learn more about our Veteran and Military Connected (VMC) students and connect with them. We will cover information about VMC students, their service background, the challenges they face transitioning to college, and the special needs some of our VMC students may have.

Cultural Humility - Simpler Than It Sounds, Amazing to Do

This course will cover the following: defining cultural humility (CH); contrasting CH with cultural competency; learning about and discussing scenarios of using CH when meeting with a client; reviewing evidence-based journal studies on the effectiveness of CH, and covering how embedding CH into organizational change creates safe spaces.

Exploring the Influence of Implicit Bias in Our Work and Lives: The Research, the Impact, and Strategies to Override

This workshop will explore implicit bias, including introducing key research studies showing unchecked bias's prevalence and potential impact on employment practices, clinical interactions, mentoring, and everyday interactions. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to reduce its impact using case-based discussions related to faculty/staff recruitment, retention, self-advocacy, and more.

Fostering Your CQ Framework

To thrive and succeed in today's diverse world, one must have highly developed cultural intelligence (CQ). Cultural Intelligence describes your capacity to relate and work effectively across different identity groups and cultures. In this introductory session, we'll talk about the four capabilities of CQ, cultural values orientations, and how to foster rich opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and learning. Participants will also complete a personalized CQ assessment and have the chance to explore their results and develop an action plan for growth.

Making the Paradigm Shift - From Diversity to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The session collaborates between the Office of the Provost, Chief Diversity Officer, and University Human Resources. Within the session, participants will begin making the shift from diversity to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). We will review tools, resources, and strategies for integrating DEI into unit plans. For units that do not have current DEI-related strategies to report, an FY19 action may include having a team of 2-3 individuals attend one of these workshops and return to the unit to facilitate unit discussions and planning. For units with current DEI strategies, this session will provide tools and processes for advancing those initiatives.

Neurodiversity - Current Conversations

Neurodiversity is a reframing of how society looks at how our brain behaves and processes information. This BUILD course explores the continued evolution away from pure stigmatization toward understanding the importance of acknowledging the full breadth of diversity in how our brains think.

Origins of Hispanic Heritage

In this session, participants will study a short history of the origins of Hispanic Heritage. By exploring the contested concept: Hispanic is not a race; it's an ethnicity, we will introduce terminology, such as Hispanic, Chicano/a, Latino/a/x.

Practices on Amplifying and Assessing the UI DEI Competency

In this session, participants will have an opportunity to define better what the UI DEI Competency means to them or their team, how to assess engagement and general best practices for guiding others in completing this portion of their performance review.

Putting It All Together - Strategies for Managing Difficult Conversations

Participants will learn about different types of conversations and consider the possible factors that make them challenging. We will review tools to address and organize the impacts of assumptions, identities, and emotions. Participants will have an opportunity to practice utilizing new resources through case scenarios.

Responsible Action - Disability Accommodations on Campus

The session focuses on increasing awareness around where we succeed and where we need to improve in supporting individuals with disabilities. Participants will learn about the history of the Disability Rights Movement and relevant laws and policies. Additionally, we'll discuss our responsibilities for accommodation, why it matters, and strategies we can immediately implement in our departments, organizations, and communities.

The Juxtaposition of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Cultural Intelligence (CQ)

This is an advanced course where previously attending BUILD: Fostering Your CQ Framework is strongly encouraged. In this session, participants will develop a deeper understanding of and links between emotional and cultural intelligence. We will apply our learning to real-world case scenarios.

Tips for Leading DEI-Related Discussions

In this session, participants will understand the value and nuances of discussion structures, explore different ways to create or approach discussions, and increase their confidence in leading discussions.

Understanding & Intervening Effectively in Micro-Aggressions

Positive change can be accomplished when skilled, engaged bystanders can safely and effectively identify, confront, and intervene in situations in which unhealthy micro-aggressive behaviors are occurring that marginalize, demean, or intimidate individuals because of one or more aspects of their identity.

This training will engage participants in increasing their awareness and understanding of micro-aggressive behaviors and their impact on individuals and will introduce the bystander intervention model and provide opportunities in small group exercises to apply the model to real situations in the workplace and daily life.

ASC: The Culture Behind Sexual Assault, Replacing Rape Culture with Consent Culture

This workshop is part of the Advocating for Safer Communities (ASC) certification program for people wanting to learn more or serve as allies and ambassadors for RVAP. The Culture Behind Sexual Assault interrogates how our society is set up to subtly and overtly support sexual violence. It offers participants a framework to challenge rape culture in their own lives. The session discusses the repercussions of not challenging rape culture, gives participants tools for critically examining language and culture, offers a model of affirmative consent and consent culture as a replacement for rape culture, and uses small group work to empower participants for personal growth. The program discusses affirmative consent practices in a sex-positive framework and offers students concrete examples of incorporating enthusiastic consent into their lives. (Cross-listed with BUILD)

 A Closer Look at Race in the United States

In this session, participants will discuss and define race and the levels of racism and review research on how racism is perpetuated in today’s society. We will also explore how our experience(s) influence our perceptions of others and develop strategies to support racial healing and racial equity.

ACT for Social Justice

ACT for Social Justice incorporates principles from current evidence-based approaches (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) to behavior change in the service of becoming a more effective social justice agent. This workshop will engage the audience in a reflective and experiential process of noticing how we carry implicit prejudice and how skillful management of our responses to these biases is essential to showing up as an ally for social justice. Participants will be tasked with critical self-reflection and identifying skills that can help cultivate effective responses to problematic intrapersonal experiences that act as barriers to building relationships across differences.

In addition to the experiential portion of the presentation, the latter portion provides an overview of how to conceptualize prejudice through an ACT lens and its implications.

Across the Generations

We’ve never had so many generations in existence today, six generations. Bridging the generational gap doesn’t have to be a difficult task. The generational gap is, broadly speaking, the difference in behavior and outlook between groups of people who were born at distinctly different times. Each generation grows up in a different context and, as a result, may have different expectations, preferences, communication styles, and perspectives/viewpoints. This workshop will examine each individual generation, develop an enhanced understanding of generational dynamics and generational viewpoints,

“We talk about generational diversity in ways we would never speak of other differences, and we do it without giving it a second thought.” – Haydn S

Ageism and Adultism 

In this session, participants will discuss and define adultism and ageism; as well as provide an overview of the biological, cognitive, and psychological aspects of adulthood.  This workshop will explore how our experience(s) influence our perceptions of others to evaluate age-based bias, discrimination, and how ageism and adultism are perpetuated in today’s society. We will develop strategies to increase awareness of one’s socialization and assumptions, engage in critical self-reflection and identifying skills that can help cultivate effective responses to problematic intrapersonal experiences based on age that act as barriers to building relationships across differences and identities

BGC: An Introduction to Federal Regulations Affecting International Students

Immigration laws regulate many aspects of international students' lives, including entry to the United States, the conditions under which they may remain in this country and re-enter after traveling abroad, and eligibility for immigration benefits such as employment and extension of stay. This session will provide an introductory overview of the application and visa process, foundations of U.S. student immigration law, ISSS responsibilities to the Department of Homeland Security and the student, and the basic rules that international students must follow to remain in status while studying in the United States.

Participants who attend this session will be able to:

• develop an awareness of the basic federal rules and regulations international students must follow to remain in status while studying in the United States
• recognize the complex employment guidelines international students must follow
• learn how ISSS staff can help departments with immigration concerns and issues

Basic Training - Understanding our Veteran and Military Students

There are over 1,500 military-affiliated students at the University of Iowa. Our Veteran students have unique experiences and skills that differ from most of their classmates. Only approximately 1% of the U.S. population is currently serving in the military. UI staff and faculty may have difficulties understanding the military culture and the assets military-affiliated students bring to campus. This training aims to help build an understanding of the US military and insight into our Veteran population on campus. This course will include Veteran and Military students to help facilitate the discussion and to answer questions.

Black Radicalism and the Diseases of Racism

Using selected texts from seminal African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African intellectuals, this course will establish racism is pervasive throughout American society; then present several models of racism as a disease akin to autoimmune diseases, alcoholism, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including etiology, symptomatology, and treatment plans. Using a modified form of the 12-Step program, participants will: diagnose the ways that racism is operative in their experience, individually and institutionally; and develop respective treatment plans to manage racism in their lives, bearing in mind that racism—like an autoimmune disease or addictive disorder—has no cure.

Connecting with Veteran Students

This course will help the University of Iowa faculty and staff learn more about our Veteran students and connect with them. We will cover information about Veteran students, their service background, the challenges they face transitioning to college, and the special needs some of our Veteran students may have.

Creating Equitable Gateway Course Experiences

Equity in the academic experience is an essential component for campus efforts toward improving diversity, equity, and inclusion. Student experience literature has illustrated how discrimination, oppression, and/or prejudice continue to permeate classroom environments. The effects are pronounced for undergraduate students in the beginning stage of pursuing a college degree when taking foundational or gateway courses. This BUILD session seeks to work with session attendees to understand better the experiences students from marginalized identities have in key gateway courses and collaboratively work together to identify strategies and skills to create equitable environments in gateway course settings. We will present student transition and experience data to create a narrative, discuss best practices in higher education, and collaboratively work toward individual skills and institutional-level change strategies.

Developing an Intersectionality Lens for Equity and Inclusion Excellence

Our social identities (both privileged and oppressed) shape our individual lived experiences. Individuals in the same situation experience it differently based on their social identities. In this advanced session, the presenter will explore the concept of intersectionality. Through case studies and group discussion, the session will further explore the application of intersectionality in teaching, student advising, administration, and the workplace for inclusion and equity excellence.

This is an advanced session and will specifically benefit individuals who have finished the BUILD certificate and attended BUILD sessions on topics of race, LGBTQ+, class, gender, first-generation college students, URM student groups, etc.

Equitable and Inclusive Pedagogy in Classroom

In this training, we will discuss an inclusive and equitable pedagogy in course plans and instruction. We will then explore the dynamics of an inclusive and equitable learning community, followed by examining its relationship with the inclusive course environment. The participants will be provided with a series of inclusive teaching strategies and will have the opportunity to examine their course syllabus from inclusion and equity perspective. 

Note: This session is only open to UI instructors. Please bring the syllabus of a course that you are currently teaching or have taught in the past. 

Exploring the Influence of Unconscious Bias in Our Work and Lives: The Research, the Impact, and Strategies to Override

This workshop will explore unconscious bias, including introducing key research studies showing the prevalence and potential impact of unchecked bias in employment practices, clinical interactions, mentoring, and everyday interactions.  Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to reduce its impact using case-based discussions related to faculty/staff recruitment, retention, self-advocacy, and more.

Focus on First-Generation College Students

Almost 25% of undergraduate students at the University of Iowa identify as first-generation college students. Compared to their continuing generation peers, first-generation students may face a unique set challenges in their college transition and completion efforts, and often benefit from additional support of faculty and staff who are dedicated to their success. This interactive session will explore definitions, challenges, and successes of first-generation students at the University of Iowa. Participants will learn about how first-generation students experience college. In addition, you well develop knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to contribute to a more inclusive campus environment where all first-generation students feel welcome and supported and can ultimately be successful at the University of Iowa.

For the Long Haul - Increasing Your Stamina While Doing Justice Work

This is an advanced session. Participants must have a foundational understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Individuals attending will be able to practice strategies for continued and long-term engagement with justice work, particularly when it gets hard. Building stamina is essential for sustainable change. In this session, participants will work on challenging their behaviors, finding their roles, and understanding their contributions to that change.

Fostering Your CQ Framework

To thrive and succeed in today’s diverse world, one must have highly developed cultural intelligence (CQ). Cultural Intelligence describes your capacity to relate and work effectively across different identity groups and cultures. In this introductory session, we’ll talk about the four capabilities of CQ, cultural values orientations, and how to foster rich opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and learning. Participants will also complete a personalized CQ assessment and have the chance to explore their results and develop an action plan for growth.

How to Have a “Learning Conversation” in the Workplace

This session will help participants understand and prepare to have a learning conversation about diversity in the workplace.  Topics include introducing a three-step process and a roadmap to guide a productive conversation, plus an overview of active listening.  These skills will be applied to realistic workplace scenarios.

Inclusive Practices for an Online World

Even if you're not an IT professional, technology is an integral part of getting work done: we all have an email account, attend virtual meetings, and use a variety of websites and computer programs. Historically, the domain of technology has not been representative and consequentially, developing technology to be inclusive was done as an afterthought. There are often features that enable inclusive practices but these are not implemented as the default setting or are not always obvious to locate.

In this session, participants will learn how the use of technology impacts a variety of identity groups (including but not limited to (dis)ability, gender identity, national origin, and race); practice applying inclusive strategies in some commonly used technology tools; and carry these lessons forward as they encounter new technology.

The workshop is open to faculty and staff. It will be an interactive session and facilitators will be available to assist with using the technologies and implementing the inclusive features introduced.

Land Acknowledgement – Recognizing and Respecting Indigenous Peoples

The Native American Council (NAC) will present the importance of land acknowledgments. Land Acknowledgments are formal statements that recognize and respect Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of the land. This workshop will achieve the following objectives: 1) define land acknowledgements, 2) describe the ways Land Acknowledgements respect Indigenous Peoples, and 3) give you examples of ways you can integrate land acknowledgments into your role at the University of Iowa.

Latinx, Latino, Hispanic, Spanish, Multicultural, etc. - Evolution of a Concept and Identity

This presentation will offer a short history of a contested concept: Latinx/ Latino/ Hispanic/ Spanish/ Multicultural/ etc., and its evolving definition throughout time and space, using the U.S. census as one important place where this concept has been contested. Then, we will watch and discuss examples of Latinx/Latino/Hispanic/Multicultural, etc., representations in film, video, and media and show how these representations have evolved, reflecting, and influencing changes in the U.S. socioeconomic and political system. Finally, participants will be encouraged to identify strategies for promoting acceptance and celebration of diverse populations, including Latinx, in all their diversity, in their respective places of work.

Making the Paradigm Shift - From Diversity to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The session collaborates with the Office of the Provost, Chief Diversity Officer, and University Human Resources. Within the session, participants will begin shifting from diversity to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). We will review tools, resources, and strategies for integrating DEI into unit plans. For units that do not have current DEI-related strategies to report, an FY19 action may include having a team of 2-3 individuals attend one of these workshops and return to the unit to facilitate unit discussions and planning. For units with current DEI strategies, this session will provide tools and processes for advancing those initiatives.

Making Your Message Count through an Inclusive Marketing Lens

Inclusive Marketing strives to create a visual reality that is more representative of our real-world demographics. It strives to acknowledge our various identities, differences, and histories while also finding ways to connect through shared experience and humanity. In this session, participants will learn about some of the tools, strategies, and methods used to create effective inclusive marketing campaigns and how they can be applied with just about any interaction we have in our day-to-day lives. 

Whether you are creating promotional materials for a program or event, leading a committee or team, recruiting future students or staff, or trying to engage a classroom full of diverse perspectives, this session hopes to equip participants with increased awareness and the skills needed to promote and deliver a unified message which values diversity and inclusion at the University of Iowa. 

Miseducated - The Myth of Meritocracy, Consumerism, and the Workforce

In this session, participants will explore the history of work and career advancement through a critical lens; highlighting systems of power such as privilege and oppression that continue to impact employment outcomes and create inequities in today's society.

Using selected examples, this session will provide a timeline history of labor and income inequality in the United States. Participants will learn about events/policies/acts that have promoted or impeded social justice and discuss the ramifications of these incidents on today’s workforce.

More Than An Asterisk – Understanding Native American Students in Higher Education

Native Americans make up less than 0.5% of students in higher education, oftentimes only referred to with an asterisk in the reporting of demographic information. This course will examine historical reasons for low enrollment by Native Americans in higher education. The unique complexities of Native American identity will be examined. Participants will identify barriers to inclusion for Native American students on college campuses, as well as learn strategies for ensuring the retention of Native American students in higher education.

Native Appropriations – Ethical Implications for Social Justice and Identity Development

Many colleges continue to use American Indian images as their mascots despite the pleas to end this practice. The fascination with Native cultures has become a growing market globally. Attempts to change these practices have not always been successful because of the profound support these images create. This presentation will engage the audience and create meaningful dialogue about the impact and pervasiveness that Native appropriations have in our society and urge action to effect social change.

Putting It All Together - Strategies for Managing Difficult Conversations

Participants will learn about different types of conversations and consider the possible factors that make them challenging. We will review tools to address and organize the impacts of assumptions, identities, and emotions. Participants will have an opportunity to practice utilizing new resources through case scenarios.

Real Talk - Courageous Conversations about Race

Americans are expressing concern over racial discord at a rate nearly unseen since the Civil Rights Movement. Far too often, news and social media outlets inform us about disturbing incidents reflecting racial conflict. There are varying opinions about who’s right and who’s wrong. But the discussion is mostly among races. It’s rarely between races. The one place where we spend most of our time – at work– does not always provide space for dialogue. Many of us were taught at an early age to minimize differences and avoid conversations about race out of fear of making a mistake or offending a person or a group. We avoid asking questions of each other or holding constructive conversations about our differences. Sometimes we even avoid each other altogether, and that hurts our ability to work together effectively. During this session, we will create a brave space to have informed dialogue grounded in shared understanding.

Returning Citizen and Reentry Simulation

The Reentry Simulation was developed by the United States Attorney’s office and designed to allow participants to understand the obstacles offenders face upon release from a term of incarceration. The purpose of the Reentry Simulation is to help participants more clearly understand the barriers ex-offenders face on their paths to re-establishing themselves as law-abiding, taxpaying citizens.  By “living the life” of someone released from prison, participants experience first-hand the barriers and challenges encountered by returning citizens daily. This experience highlights many of the unnecessary barriers to successful reentry. During the simulation, participants are assigned the identity of a fictional offender and navigate through a series of events to reintegrate into the community successfully. They have to meet the strict life requirements that people released from prison have to meet or risk returning to prison. The obstacles that simulation participants face include obtaining identification cards, homelessness, lack of transportation, limited money, paying required court costs, visiting parole officers, seeking employment, and applying for assistance when all resources have been exhausted. The simulation is intended to educate all community members regarding the challenges returning citizens face when leaving prison. Almost anyone would find it a useful exercise, but policymakers, elected officials, faith-based communities, employers, community organizations, and law enforcement personnel may find it particularly helpful. 

Responsible Action - Disability Accommodations on Campus

The session focuses on increasing awareness around where we succeed and where we need to improve supporting individuals with disabilities. Participants will learn about the history of the Disability Rights Movement and relevant laws and policies. Additionally, we’ll discuss our responsibilities for accommodation, why it matters, and strategies we can immediately implement in our departments, organizations, and communities.

Shifting the Monoracial Campus Conversation

Racial demographics are changing in homes, classrooms, and workplaces. The number of individuals with multiracial or multiethnic experiences is increasing, yet those experiences are not always part of the larger conversation. In this session, participants will address barriers to supporting individuals with multiracial/multiethnic identities. Participants will be exposed to Multiracial and Multiethnic identity models and have an opportunity to hear personal narratives.

Size Diversity—Every Body Is Different

The session will examine issues related to body image and size diversity. We will discuss society’s messages about body image and body sizes and how this impacts inclusivity at the University of Iowa. As a result of this session, participants will (a) be able to identify sizeism and how that impacts the UI community, (b) understand their own perceptions and biases concerning body size, and (c) develop strategies for decreasing body shame and body size discrimination.

Supporting College Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder - Strategies and Resources

Assisting college students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has become an institutional priority as many students from this population increase. In this session, participants will understand the scope and complexities of ASD, explore the narrative of how college students with ASD experience campus environments, identify challenges and opportunities students with ASD may experience, and generate ideas and strategies that can be used both in and out of the classroom to support students with ASD.

Supporting DACA and Undocumented Students

Participants will learn about best practices in supporting DACA and undocumented students in higher education, as well as brainstorm what steps they can take in their own personal and professional spheres of influence to push for equity for these groups.

The Dynamics of Difference

This session focuses on defining power and privilege and their effects on continuing systematic oppression. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their identities, specifically which ones hold privilege and do not. In this session, participants will also learn to address the conflict they may feel about their privileged identities.

The House of Cards—Lessons in Smart Social Advocacy for Fighting the Good Fight of Civil Rights

This session takes participants to explore the research on belief and attitude change to examine how to be most effective in creating social and cultural change as civil rights advocates. Additionally, using theories from social and counseling psychology, we will look at how to have the “good fight” while being effective in taking care of those from who we want to change and in taking care of ourselves at the same time!

Theory to Practice: Engaging with Different Types of Activism

In this session, participants will learn about different modes of activism and the “messiness” inherent in social justice work. Participants will gain insight into types of activism through reflection, discussion, and practice. Additionally, they will engage with ways to challenge and interrupt oppressive structures by capitalizing on their strengths and growth areas within the myriad forms of activism.

Traumatic Impacts: Connecting Race, Gender, and Violence

The history of the anti-sexual violence movement in the United States is rich, deep, vibrant, and fraught with inequalities related to gender identity, sexual orientation, social class, race, and ability/disability, among other social identities. This session will explore the origins of rape victim/survivor advocacy as social justice and provide participants with the opportunity to consider how this history impacts our ability to support members of the UI community who are survivors.

Understanding and Deconstructing Media Representations

This course will discuss and engage with media representation of individuals and groups with a particular focus on identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientations, religion), stereotypes, and biases in media messages. We will present some basic theories/concepts to understand media representation and effects to provide a foundation that allows us to explore these issues with nuance. The course will take media representations seriously without suggesting that these images are "all-powerful." We will discuss representations in news and entertainment with a focus on visual media. The goal of this course will be to help participants think critically about media, including the media they consume. We will also discuss ways to use media effectively in the classroom and other educational settings to engage students, staff, and other constituents. At the end of this session, participants should have a new perspective for thinking about media messages and their role in our lives.

Understanding & Intervening Effectively in Micro-Aggressions

Positive change can be accomplished when skilled, engaged bystanders have the ability to safely and effectively identify, confront, and intervene in situations in which unhealthy micro-aggressive behaviors are occurring that marginalize, demean, or intimidate individuals because of one or more aspects of their identity.

This training will engage participants in increasing their awareness and understanding of micro-aggressive behaviors and their impact on individuals and will introduce the bystander intervention model and provide opportunities in small group exercises to apply the model to real situations from the workplace and daily life.

Understanding Introversion

Discussion and research on introversion have blossomed in recent years. We are coming to new understandings about personality traits and working styles of introverts that sometimes don't appear to reflect generally accepted "strengths" in the workplace and education. Far from being simply "quiet," "solitary," "shy," or "reclusive," introverts bring unique approaches and strengths to our classrooms, our offices, our teams, our departments and units, and our institution. Simultaneously, "introversion" and "extroversion" are both more complex ideas than have been traditionally understood, and we can all benefit from knowing where our own introversion/extroversion characteristics and strengths lie. Understanding how introverts work best and contribute the most will benefit individuals by having their work more appropriately assigned, supported, and rewarded. It will enhance departments, units, and the university as a whole by supporting and benefiting from the diversity of working styles among our university community members. The workshop will explore the definitions of introversion and extroversion, how introverts can be best supported to flourish in the workplace, and how introversion characteristics can best advance our departments/units and the university. The workshop will also allow for individual self-assessment and sharing among participants, as well as provide brainstorming time on how to improve the environment for introversion at the UI.

Utilizing Collective Problem-Solving Methods to Address Local Challenges

This is an advanced session. Participants are expected to have a foundational understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Individuals attending will have an opportunity to participate in and practice different collective problem-solving methods to address justice and equity challenges at their local level.

What’s Law Got to Do With It?

During this session, participants will have the opportunity to learn about their rights and protections in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodation, credit, and education. Participants will also learn how to identify acts of discrimination in their community, understand the complaint process and engage in case scenarios.

The Passport allows participants to gain course credit by pursuing diversity, equity, inclusion activities on their own time. The Passport is also a great opportunity to continue learning once you have completed the certificate program. Start today!

• Bronze Level

• Silver Level

• Gold Level

How does the Passport work?

  > Attend diversity, equity, and/or inclusion-related event, training, activity, etc.

  > Track your participation and complete all fields for each in the BUILD Passport Tracking Form.

  > Submit your passport after completing each level.

  > Receive your BUILD Passport medallion via campus mail.

  > Add it to the BUILD placard you received at the core course. (Placards can also be picked up at 2750 UCC, by appointment only.)

Which activities qualify and which do not?

All activities connected to diversity and inclusion, social justice, and/or human rights will be considered with the following limitations: BUILD courses or other individual courses within a series or certificate program do not qualify. However, completing the series or certificate would qualify as one activity.

Activities prior to August 1, 2017 will not be considered, however, all activities afterward apply. There is no time limit to finishing each level of your Passport.

BUILD Cohorts is the newest program offered out of the BUILD initiative. This six-week virtual series will engage participants in the guided completion of their BUILD certificate. Participants will complete 13 hours of training, including conversations with fellow cohort members and a certified cultural intelligence coach.

Registration will open in the spring semester of the academic year. Participants engaging with the BUILD Virtual Cohorts will receive credit through Learning and Development after completing the entire series.

Complete 4 foundational courses

• Beyond the Numbers
• Exploring the Impacts of Implicit Bias
• Fostering your CQ Framework 
• Making the Paradigm Shift

Complete 2 elective courses

• A Closer Look at Race
• Intro to LGBTQ Identities
• Managing Difficult Conversations
• Understanding Microaggressions

Attend 2 cohort meetings

Engage in an individual coaching session

BUILD Cohorts will be offered on Tuesdays from 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 8 a.m. - Noon starting the week of May 16, 2022, until the week of June 20, 2022.

Registration will be open until Wednesday, May 4th at 11:59 pm. As we have limited space, individuals will be notified of their status with the cohort experience by Friday, May 6th

Click here to complete the registration form

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Inclusive Education and Strategic Initiatives at ddei-iesi@uiowa.edu or 319-353-2388.

Overview of Course Content

Core Courses (All Required)

Beyond the Numbers: Foundations of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (2.5 hours)

This introductory workshop will allow participants to understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values of the university. Participants will explore and reflect on the role of identity in their personal and professional experiences.

Exploring the Influence of Implicit Bias in Our Work and Lives (1.5 hours)

This workshop will explore implicit bias, including an introduction to key research studies showing the prevalence of unchecked bias in workplace environments and everyday interactions. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to reduce the impacts of implicit bias.

Fostering Your Cultural Intelligence (CQ) Framework (1.5 hours)

Cultural Intelligence (CQ) describes your capacity to relate and work effectively across different identity groups and cultures. We will discuss the four capabilities of CQ and cultural values orientations. Participants will also complete a personalized CQ assessment and have the chance to explore their results.

Making the Paradigm Shift (1.5 hours)

Participants will learn about the institutional paradigm shift from diversity to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants will leave will a better understanding of shared language, unit readiness, individual readiness, and resources. We will also review tools, resources, and strategies for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the strategic planning process.

Elective Courses (Choose at least TWO)

A Closer Look at Race in the U.S. (1.5 hours)

In this session, participants will discuss and define race and the levels of racism and review research on how racism is perpetuated in today’s society. We will also explore strategies to support racial healing and racial equity.

Intro to LGBTQ Identities (1.5 hours)

Participants will be introduced to basic LGBTQ terms and concepts to help participants develop an appreciation for the experiences of the LGBTQ people, and bring an overall awareness of LGBTQ issues. Participants will be encouraged to think about how they can create a more inclusive environment and will be prepared to provide resources to LGBTQ people.

Managing Difficult Conversations (1.5 hours)

Participants will learn about different types of conversations and consider the possible factors that make them challenging. We will review tools to address and organize the impacts of assumptions, identities, and emotions. Participants will have an opportunity to practice utilizing new resources through case scenarios.

Understanding Microaggressions (1.5 hours)

In this session, participants will learn about microaggressions, reflect upon how everyone can perpetuate them, and acknowledge the impact of microaggressions in daily experiences. While strengthening strategies for interrupting microaggressive behavior, participants will also explore and apply skills learned by working through scenarios.

Supplemental Instruction (All Required)

Coaching Session (1 hour)

Coaching is a structured, non-judgmental, motivational resource that allows individuals to work one-on-one to set personal goals, synthesize training information, and problem-solve specific issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Cohort Meetings (1 hour x 2)

Participants will have two opportunities to connect with fellow colleagues in their cohort. During these sessions, participants will also have the opportunity to further explore complex topics, share learning, and ask questions of their peers. In the final cohort meeting, participants will submit a short essay about their experience with the BUILD Virtual Cohorts.

The Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion invites proposals from the University of Iowa campus faculty, staff, and professional students for the Building University of Iowa Leadership for Diversity (BUILD) workshops for the 2022-2023 academic year. 2022-2023 BUILD Course Proposals are open! Please click here to access the proposal form.

As a possible new BUILD Instructor, we ask that you:

• attend at least one BUILD course prior to instructing your course
• are able to clearly demonstrate how your experience and expertise is connected to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion
• meet with a member of Diversity Resources prior to your course, and be open to feedback and suggestions if adjustments are needed to better align, and remain consistent with, the common language and definitions used in previous courses

For sessions to be considered for the BUILD program, they must:

• support at least two of the program objectives
• foster an inclusive learning environment 
• be at least 2 hours in length

For more information about BUILD and to view course descriptions click here. Please contact ddei-iesi@uiowa.edu if you have any questions.

We will work with participants to verify and provide BUILD credit for previously attended courses.  Just send an email to  ddei-iesi@uiowa.edu. with the details of your participation. Please note, courses that were similar but have been revised for the BUILD certificate may not carry over for credit, especially if they were of a shorter duration. 

There is no specific deadline for completing your certificate. Participants may take as long as they need. And of course, we hope you’ll continue to take courses long after you’ve earned a certificate. 

Although we do recommend it, participants may take other electives first if scheduling is a constraint. 

Right now, we are only offering this program for UI faculty, staff, postdocs, and graduate students. However, there are many ways for others to get involved. Check out diversity.uiowa.edu/programs for more information and opportunities. 

Email ddei-iesi@uiowa.edu or call Inclusive Education and Strategic Initiative at (319) 353 -2388.