The focus of this institute is to develop participants’ professional facilitation skills. In addition, participants will expand their leadership skills and leave this high-powered event with confidence in their ability to facilitate in new and challenging environments.

Attributes of a Skilled Facilitator

A skilled facilitator…

• can lead a disparate group of people through a process that meets the needs and goals of both the individual participants and the group.

• is personable, relaxed, and easy to relate with. He/she can listen, question, assess needs, challenge, and communicate across cultures. He/she can remove bias, take on the perspectives of others, think on his/her feet, and respond to others’ needs.

• gathers information from multiple sources; synthesizes, rephrases, makes sure that minority viewpoints are respected, and all the information is captured and recorded. He/she paces the event effectively, allowing for timely reflection; knows when to be silent, and how to become invisible in the process.

When a facilitator’s process is successful, desired outcomes will be met, ownership will emerge in the group, and each person will feel valued and affirmed.

This event is for anyone who wants to become a significant change agent within his or her profession, organization, and community. Persons who want to work toward effecting positive social or organizational change are encouraged to participate.

During the Institute, the facilitation process will be modeled, practiced, analyzed, and assessed. Participants will be able to take risks and practice new behaviors in a supportive environment. Planned outcomes will be supplemented based on the interests and needs of participants.

The institute will help you:

• Understand and internalize the criteria that define a quality facilitator’s performance.

• Transfer your new knowledge and skills to different contexts so you can handle even more challenging situations as a facilitator.

• Become a researcher of facilitation, mentoring, and social change.

• Set new goals and standards for your own learning and personal growth.

• See many additional opportunities for practicing your facilitation skills.

• Become a powerful change agent in the areas that concern you the most.

• Bring together diverse perspectives and values to help a group resolve conflicts and build amicable consensus.