2025 Learning Journey - Bridging Divides: Learning Lab Series w/ Dr. Alonzo Kelly

TO: UCSB Staff

FR: Human Resources

RE: 2025 Learning Journey - Bridging Divides: Learning Lab Series w/ Dr. Alonzo Kelly

Bridging Divides - Cultivating Connection and Communication: A Learning Journey Lab Series

UCSB Human Resources is excited to announce the continuation of our 2024-2025 Learning Journey Speaker Series with three interactive Learning Lab sessions. These labs are designed to provide a safe and intimate environment for practical learning, offering valuable insights and strategies for understanding and navigating differences. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, you'll develop effective communication skills across diverse perspectives. 

We are delighted to welcome back our esteemed facilitator, Dr. Alonzo Kelly, an internationally recognized Executive Coach, Professor, and three-time Best-Selling Author, celebrated for his expertise in leadership development and strategic thinking.

Join us, and Dr. Kelly, to cultivate self-awareness, enhance your professional toolkit, and gain practical strategies for fostering a campus culture defined by respect, belonging, and mutual understanding.

While prior participation in the 2024-2025 Learning Journey Speaker Series and attendance at all three labs is strongly encouraged for a comprehensive experience, it is not required.

Each session offers the flexibility of in-person OR virtual attendance. Please follow the links below to learn more and register:

Learning Lab #1:  The Art of Authentic Inquiry 

This full participatory session is designed to introduce participants to the ‘art’ of asking better questions.  Through observation, short video clips, real scenarios, and role play, this session will encourage us to embrace curiosity in the midst of conflict. 

• In person: September 9, 2025 9:00AM-11:00AM PST (Mosher Alumni Hall)

• Virtual: September 16, 2025 1:00PM via Zoom

Learning Lab #2:  Avoiding The Start That Stops Most People

This full participatory session is designed to utilize critical thinking, authentic inquiry, and crucial conversation techniques to engage in psychologically safe conversations that may contain high stress, strong emotions, and opposing opinions.

• In person: October 21, 2025 9:00AM - 11:00AM PST (Mosher Alumni Hall)

• Virtual: October 28, 2025 1:00PM - 3:00PM via Zoom

Learning Lab #3:  Creating A Culture of Accountability 

Culture does not require we all agree. It does, however, require we have agreed upon standards of engagement as we navigate conversations, activities, and behaviors in support of the Mission and Vision of UC Santa Barbara.  This session is designed to practice how we engage colleagues, students, staff, and guests to ensure our campus culture of respect is understood and protected. 

• In person and virtual sessions coming in November 2025.  Dates/times TBD