Difficult Conversations: Understanding People, Power, and Perspectives

Please join us!

Difficult conversations are rarely just about the issue at hand — they are often shaped by power dynamics, identity, emotion, and competing perspectives.

Join Chief Human Resources Officer Kristin Brandt, Leadership Consultant Kongit Farrell, and SPS Lecturer and Organizational Ombuds Amy Sereday, in conversation with moderator Dr. Steve Safier, Program Director of the Human Capital Management (HCM) program for an engaging panel discussion on navigating high-stakes conversations.

Drawing from experience in executive HR leadership, organizational consulting, mediation, and ombuds practice, our panelists will share practical tools for addressing workplace conflict, fostering inclusive dialogue, and strengthening culture through thoughtful, skillful engagement. 

Participants will also engage in a guided case study table discussion, applying key concepts and exploring real-world approaches to managing complex conversations, and leave with an enhanced understanding and practical tips to apply to their own professional practice.

This event is co-hosted by Columbia University School of Professional Studies’ Human Capital Management and Negotiation and Conflict Resolution programs.

For questions about this event, please contact Brad Tuyay, bjt2131 [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu.

To obtain additional information about program offerings at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies, please contact an Admissions Counselor at inquire [[at]] sps [[dot]] columbia [[dot]] edu.

If you require closed captioning, sign-language interpretation or any other disability accommodations, please contact Disability Services, disability [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu, at least 10 days in advance.

Please visit Columbia University’s Hub for Emergency Preparedness to stay up to date on the latest campus health and safety policies.

This event is open to individuals irrespective of identity and sex.