Leadership Essentials Series: Managing Conflict and Difficult Conversations

March 6, 2026
9:30 am - 11:30 am

Designed with emerging leaders in mind, our Leadership Essentials Series offers valuable learning experiences for early career faculty beginning their leadership trajectory.


Managing Conflict and Difficult Conversations:
Leadership Strategies for Effective Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable aspect of leadership. This interactive workshop will equip you with skills and strategies to navigate and resolve conflicts constructively by exploring the nature and sources of conflict, understanding your conflict management style, and learning practical approaches to foster productive dialogue and maintain positive relationships.

Key Takeaways:

  • Identify common sources and dynamics of conflict within academic settings.
  • Assess your personal conflict management style and understand its impact on leadership and team dynamics.
  • Apply strategies and techniques for resolving conflicts in a way that fosters collaboration and trust.
  • Promote an inclusive and respectful environment that encourages constructive dialogue and proactive problem-solving.
  • Enhance your ability to facilitate conversations that de-escalate tension and lead to productive outcomes.

This workshop is designed for faculty members in leadership roles who want to strengthen their conflict management capabilities to lead more effectively and foster positive workplace relationships.

Program Details:

Friday, March 6, 2026
9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
In-Person Workshop

Led by Steve Taff, PhD, OTR/L, FNAP, FAOTA, Assistant Dean for Faculty Leadership Development.


About the Leadership Essentials Series

Are you ready to enhance your leadership skills and make a lasting impact in your role? Join us for Leadership Essentials, a series of dynamic faculty leadership development workshops designed to equip you with the fundamental knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to lead effectively in today’s academic environment.

In this interactive series, you’ll explore core leadership principles, sharpen self-awareness, and gain practical insights for authentically leading yourself and your teams.

Register for additional Leadership Essentials workshops below
Leading Yourself

Gain practical tools to increase your self-management, boost your confidence, and lay the groundwork for leading others effectively and with purpose.

Program Details:

Thursday, January 15, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Workshop

Register Here

Providing Effective Feedback

Enhance your feedback delivery skills to build stronger teams, improve performance, and create a positive workplace culture.

Program Details:

Tuesday, April 7, 2026
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Workshop

Register Here


Workshop Registration:

Leadership Essentials Series: Managing Conflict Spring 2026
I am a(n):
Academic Track:
How did you hear about this event?

This form is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.