Bluffton University - Restorative Justice and Cultural Justice Trainings

Bluffton University placed a spotlight on a three-day Restorative Justice training, led by Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, co-author of "The Little Book of Restorative Discipline for Schools." This immersive training underscored the vital importance of acknowledging responsibility for transgressions through direct engagement with victims and community restitution. Enthusiastic participation in this event included hall directors as well as ten faculty and staff members. Its overarching objective: to fortify student safety and foster academic triumph.

Simultaneously, the university held a Cultural Intelligence Training, targeting faculty, staff and student leaders. This ongoing training initiative delved into pivotal topics such as implicit bias, heightened cultural awareness and the promotion of effective intercultural communication. The OFIC Diversity Grant was able to play a role in supporting this program, which aimed at cultivating individual accountability and deepening understanding. To learn more about these transformative training sessions, read on.

Restorative Justice and Cultural Intelligence Training recaps and outcomes

Bluffton University's implementation of Restorative Justice training and Cultural Intelligence Training has yielded several positive outcomes. The Restorative Justice training involved 14 participants, including faculty, staff, and students. The creation of mediation circles in the residence halls has proven beneficial in resolving roommate conflicts, providing a safe space for students to express their feelings and work through issues, thus enabling them to maintain harmonious living arrangements. The Restorative Justice circle was also employed by the Bias Response team to facilitate a dialogue about differing perspectives on a situation, fostering better understanding among participants and enabling them to communicate these insights to their friends. This training has equipped students with the necessary skills to engage in difficult conversations, particularly in an era marked by decreased face-to-face interactions due to Covid and increased reliance on social media.

The Cultural Intelligence Training engaged 80 participants, including faculty, staff, and students. The program aimed to enhance participants' awareness and comprehension of diversity and inclusion through the lens of cultural intelligence. Participants had the opportunity to discuss their experiences and upcoming situations with the training leaders, gaining insights and improving their self-awareness and self-management skills. The training enabled individuals to navigate cultural differences, both domestic and global, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Participants also gained an increased awareness of various forms of bias and developed the mindset necessary to combat bias for success. The program emphasized the use of the four Cultural Intelligence Capabilities: Drive, Knowledge, Strategy, and Action.

These initiatives, supported by the grant, have propelled Bluffton University forward, fostering a more inclusive environment and equipping participants with the tools to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The university expresses gratitude for the opportunity to enhance its campus and create a more welcoming atmosphere for people from all walks of life.