The sessions listed on this page are specifically for members of the 2024-25 Institute for Faculty Excellence Cohort. If you are not a member of the 2024-25 Cohort, please do not register for any events on this page.
- Jan29Wed
Autism in the Classroom: Strategies for Connection and Communication – (January 29, 2025 01:00 PM – 02:20 PM)
Location:TLPDC Room 151
2802 18th Street
Lubbock, TX 79409Room: TLPDC 151
Available Seats: 24
Facilitator: Julian Munn (CASE Program Manager, Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research) and Kimberly Rindlisbacher (Academic Counselor, Student Disability Services)
This interactive 80-minute workshop offers university faculty an introduction to autism, focusing on practical strategies to enhance communication and connection with students with Autism. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of autistic individuals and explore effective approaches for creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and reflective activities, faculty will learn how to recognize and respond to common communication challenges, adapt teaching methods, and foster meaningful connections that support all students' learning and well-being.
Lunch will be provided!
- Feb28Fri
The Compassionate Leader: Communication Retreat Part II – (February 28, 2025 10:30 AM – 03:00 PM)
Location:Cotton Court Hotel map
1610 Broadway St, Lubbock, TX 79401
Lubbock, TX 79401Room: Cotton Court Hotel - 1610 Broadway St, Lubbock, TX 79401
Available Seats: 11
The purpose of this immersive learning experience is to support participants in deepening their understanding of nonviolent communication and its use in academic and professional settings. During the retreat, participants will practice using the OFNR process to make strengths-based requests using positive action language. By the end of the day, participants will feel empowered to maintain connection during difficult conversations.
- Mar7Fri
Strengths Part 2: Activating Your CliftonStrengths – (March 7, 2025 12:00 PM – 01:50 PM)
Location:TLPDC Room 150
2802 18th Street
Lubbock, TX 79409Room: TLPDC 150
Available Seats: 31
In this workshop, faculty will develop a deeper understanding of CliftonStrengths, engagement, leadership, and collaboration. It will build on the concepts presented in Strengths Part 1. Participants will engage in discussions and activities about cultivating a strengths-based culture, identifying strengths in others, facilitating strengths-based conversations, using strengths to lead teams, and leveraging strengths for career enhancement. Participants must have completed the Strengths Part 1 workshop to register. Lunch will be provided!
- Mar10Mon
In Their Own Words: A Panel Discussion with Students with Autism – (March 10, 2025 01:00 PM – 02:20 PM)
Location:TLPDC Room 151
2802 18th Street
Lubbock, TX 79409Room: TLPDC 151
Available Seats: 26
Facilitators: Julian Munn (CASE Program Manager, Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research) and Kimberly Rindlisbacher (Academic Counselor, Student Disability Services)
In this 80-minute panel discussion, university faculty will have the unique opportunity to hear directly from autistic students about their experiences in the classroom. Titled In Their Own Words, this session invites faculty to engage with authentic perspectives as the panelists respond to questions submitted in advance. The conversation will cover topics such as effective communication and supportive teaching practices. This candid dialogue aims to deepen understanding, challenge assumptions, and provide actionable insights for enhancing the academic experiences of students with Autism.
Lunch will be provided! - Mar28Fri
Navigating Difficult Moments: Communication Skills for Evolving Leaders – (March 28, 2025 01:30 PM – 02:50 PM)
Location:TLPDC Room 153
2802 18th Street
Lubbock, TX 79409Room: TLPDC 153
Available Seats: 23
A panel discussion with TTU Campus Leaders This 80-minute panel discussion will explore the art of authentic communication during challenging interactions, equipping evolving leaders in higher education with practical strategies to build trust, foster connection, and navigate difficult conversations with confidence and empathy. Experienced and emerging TTU campus leaders will share personal insights and examples of addressing conflicts, managing power dynamics, and fostering open dialogue in higher education environments. The panel will address critical topics, including balancing empathy with accountability, handling feedback effectively, and managing emotional responses in high-stakes moments. Participants will leave with:
- Tools for fostering meaningful connection during difficult conversations.
- Insights into communication techniques that enhance trust and understanding.
- Strategies for cultivating resilience and emotional intelligence as a leader.