Diversity Trainer to Present “Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say” for Students, Faculty & Staff

March 19, 2014

Diversity Trainer to Present “Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say” for Students, Faculty & Staff

Nationally known diversity trainer Dr. Maura Cullen will visit campus next week to present “Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say,” a presentation offering practical ways to quickly transform the quality and effectiveness of our interactions. Two events are being offered – one for students and one for faculty and staff members.  There is no cost to attend. Student Event Wednesday, March 26 | 6 p.m. | Russell Union Ballroom Faculty and Staff Event Thursday, March 27 | 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. | Williams Center Multipurpose Room Seating is limited and registration is required for the faculty and staff event only. Register online. Participants will learn ten very common statements that are often well intended but may be offensive. Knowing the actual statements will be helpful; however, the real learning comes from implementing the ten core concepts that ultimately increase diversity skills and competency. “I never, ever miss Dr. Cullen’s presentations,” said Tierza Watts, director of Residence Education. “I tell everyone she’s a must-see. She’s very honest and has a great sense of humor.” Following the program at each event, copies of Cullen's book, 35 Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say will be for sale and a book signing will take place. The cost of the book is $15. “Plan to attend this event to learn not only awareness about what you say but the impact. You’ll also learn what to do when you’ve said something that could be offensive, and if you’re on the receiving end, how you should respond,” said Watts. The event is sponsored by the following organizations: Dr. Maura Cullen is widely considered one of the nation’s foremost authorities on diversity issues on college campuses today with more than 25 years of experience as a trainer and keynote speaker. She received her doctorate in Social Justice and Diversity Education from the University of Massachusetts. Cullen is the founder of the Diversity Student Summit, a founding faculty member of the Social Justice Training Institute and author of 35 Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say. For more information, contact Tierza Watts, director of Residence Education, at 912-478-1730 or by emailing tierzawatts@georgiasouthern.edu.