University Hosts Dec. 14 Program on Understanding Bias for All Staff

A national expert on diversity, inclusion and unconscious bias will speak Dec. 14 at the Schine Center’s Goldstein Auditorium in a program for all University staff. The program is jointly sponsored by Syracuse University Interim Chief Diversity Officer Keith Alford and the Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services. Light refreshments and a welcome are scheduled for 8:15-8:45 a.m.; and the program will run from 9-10:30 a.m.

Kimberly Rattley, a renowned organizational development specialist with the Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm Cook Ross, will deliver the keynote address, titled “Understanding Everyday Bias.” Rattley will gear her presentation to staff, supporting them in their efforts toward embracing diversity and inclusion. She also will examine factors that shape perceptions; explore the science of bias; review the impact of unconscious bias on relationships; and identify strategies to recognize and mitigate bias to improve decision-making and interactions.

“I am pleased that Kimberly Rattley will share her expertise with us,” Alford says. “As I have said before, at Syracuse University our credence in the dignity and worth of humankind is paramount. We champion inclusivity and view it as a dimension of excellence, enhancing who we are as students, faculty, staff and alumni.”

Andrew Gordon, senior vice president and chief human resources officer, says, “Our staff members impact every aspect of University operations every day. This program is designed to support them at all levels and in all they do to help foster a respectful and inclusive workplace for all.”

Rattley has more than 20 years’ experience partnering with clients to bring clarity, focus and cohesiveness to their diverse teams. She has extensive experience working with universities and colleges, and she combines her expertise in business, leadership development, diversity and systems analysis to assist clients with organizational challenges. She has designed more than 100 diversity training curricula, inclusive of culturally competent practices, for such clients as the Smithsonian Institution, American University, University of Pennsylvania and Skidmore College.

Rattley earned a Bachelor of Arts from Georgetown University and a Master of Social Work from Howard University. She also is certified in the areas of life management facilitation and organizational development from Georgetown University.

In addition to Rattley’s presentation, Cook Ross will facilitate two afternoon workshops, titled “Addressing Microbehavior,” for staff with supervisory or management responsibilities. Because space is limited for the workshops, invitations will be sent to invitees. Staff who have a special interest in attending, however, are welcome to contact the Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services at equalopp@syr.edu to secure a seat.

American Sign Language interpretation and Communication Access Real time Translation (CART) will be provided during the Dec. 14 presentation and discussion. For any accommodation requests, please contact William Myhill, interim ADA coordinator, at ada@syr.edu.