Higher Education Training

Answer: Calm down. 

A healthy campus climate is predicated on having a focused and consistent approach to diffusing conflict. From angry students to their disgruntled parents, campus staff must have the ability to guide conflict and bring calm to escalated situations. Even veteran staff can struggle in this critical area without a structured approach. Participants will explore why and how humans escalate before diving into research-based, impactful strategies that will aid in helping escalated individuals calm themselves, process the incident, and preserve the relationship for future interactions. 

What Participants Takeaway

1. Explore why and how humans escalate, especially when collaborating with stakeholders in a professional setting

2. Learn highly impactful strategies that will aid in helping escalated adults calm down

3. Discuss a framework for teaching and reviewing de-escalation skills with all staff

Scope of the Session

This presentation will delve into effective de-escalation techniques for adults within higher educational settings. Topics include understanding the psychology of escalation, identifying common triggers, and implementing practical strategies to defuse tense interactions that could occur with students and stakeholders. Attendees will learn communication techniques, emotional regulation strategies, and a structured framework for training staff in de-escalation skills. The goal is to enhance professionalism, promote positive engagement, and create a calmer, more supportive campus environment.

Engaging the Participants

Participants will find partners in the room and explore myths about de-escalation. They will be able to discuss strategies and compare ideologies regarding supporting angry stakeholders. Additionally, they will share experiences (to the extent of comfortability) in order to make connections to the escalation process and to better understand the basis of calming strategies. Participants will talk, move, and apply learning throughout the entire presentation to maximize time and space. 

Why This is So Relevant

Learning to de-escalate confrontational behavior on campus is crucial today because tensions can arise from diverse perspectives, high-stress environments, and increased pressure to perform. Effective de-escalation skills help maintain professionalism, protect mental well-being, and foster a positive campus culture. By managing conflicts calmly and respectfully, faculty can prevent escalation, reduce stress, and build stronger, more collaborative relationships. In an era of rapid change and heightened emotions, mastering de-escalation is essential for productivity.

Main Audience - Professors, Administrative Positions, Academic Support Services, Financial Specialists, and Campus Security

Formats - 90 min / 2 hr. / Longer formats offered with added dialogue and supplemental content

(fully customizable at your request)