2025-2026 Events
Community Impact Open House
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Posner Grand Room (Posner 340)
Explore ways to participate in our partnerships within the Pittsburgh community. Discover the initiatives undertaken by the Center for Shared Prosperity, Prison Education Project, LEAP, Arts Green House and Community Engagement Fellowship Program, among others.
Connections & Conversation Luncheon: Staff Community Excellence Award
Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, noon to 1:30 p.m., Peter, Wright & McKenna Rooms, Cohon University Center
Join us for lunch and a celebration of the fall 2025 Dietrich College Staff Community Excellence Award winner.
The Dietrich College Staff Community Excellence Award is a college-level award recognizing individuals for contributions to increasing inclusion and belonging both within and outside the university. Nominations are rolling, and the deadline to submit for the upcoming award is Aug. 31.
Faculty Workshop: Promoting Civil Discourse in the Classroom
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, noon to 1 p.m., Dean's Office Conference Room (Baker 154R)
As polarized issues increasingly affect academic discussions, engage in a conversation about building a learning environment where every student feels confident expressing their views and thoughtfully engaging with differing opinions. Explore practical strategies for fostering respectful and productive dialogue in the classroom, especially when discussing controversial topics and varied perspectives.
Staff Workshop: Dealing with Difficult People in the Workplace
Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, noon to 1 p.m., Dean's Office Conference Room (Baker 154R)
This interactive workshop for staff provides participants with practical strategies and effective communication techniques for handling challenging interpersonal situations in the workplace. Through case studies and role-playing activities, attendees will build the skills and confidence to manage difficult conversations and transform potentially harmful interactions into constructive and positive outcomes.
Student Dinner: Restorative Reflections
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, 5 to 6 p.m., Center for Shared Prosperity (Baker 131A)
Dietrich students are invited to gather for a lovely, light dinner filled iwth engaging conversation. We'll be discussing both local and global social challenges and opportunities. This is a wonderful chance to learn, listen and collaborate with others on efforts to address these important issues.
Spark Conversations, Spark Change! A Humanities and Social Sciences Research Symposium
Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Peter, Wright & McKenna Rooms, Cohon University Center
Join us for a dynamic research symposium exploring esteemed colleagues' latest work focusing on inclusion and historically resilient groups through various topics and methodologies. This event will gather scholars from our college to share cutting-edge findings, engage in critical dialogue and explore innovative strategies. This event aims to showcase how our researchers integrate inclusive, ethical and responsible practices into their work while fostering meaningful connections and collaboration throughout the college.
Faculty, Post-Doc & Ph.D. Student Workshop: The Art of Negotiation
Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, noon to 1 p.m., Baker A60
No matter your role or experience level, learning how to negotiate is an essential leadership skill to apply in every aspect of your life. Register to attend this presentation and you will be able to recognize the barriers to making the ask, start to create your negotiation plan and discover your bargaining power!
Staff Book Discussion: Ink & Insights
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, 3 to 4 p.m., Dean's Office Conference Room (Baker 154R)
Join us as we explore "Think Again" by Adam Grant, which offers an insightful examination of the power of rethinking and unlearning. Grant, a leading organizational psychologist, explains that embracing curiosity, humility and flexibility can lead to better decision-making, stronger relationships and improved adaptability. Through research and real-world examples, he argues that true success comes not from always being right but from knowing when to change direction. We invite you to discuss key ideas, share your experiences with rethinking and reflect on how we can all grow by remaining open to change.
Registration is capped at 15. Books provided by the publisher.
Early Insights: Building Lasting Community Partnerships
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 9 to 10 a.m., Posner Grand Room (Posner 340)
Join us for a continental breakfast where we explore practical strategies for creating sustainable collaborations between academic institutions and the communities they serve. Panelists will share practical insights on moving beyond transactional relationships to build genuine, mutually beneficial partnerships that address real community needs while advancing educational goals. Panelists will cover identifying authentic community priorities, establishing trust and reciprocity, navigating common challenges, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Student Dinner: Restorative Reflections
Thursday, March 12, 2026, 5 to 6 p.m., Center for Shared Prosperity (Baker 131A)
Come and join your fellow Dietrich College students for a lovely light dinner filled with engaging conversation. We'll be discussing both local and global social challenges and opportunities. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to learn, listen and collaborate with others on efforts to address these important issues.
Leading with Humility
Tuesday, March 17, 2026, noon to 1 p.m., Dean's Office Conference Room (Baker 154R)
This engaging one-hour session invites community members to rethink leadership by exploring how humility can be a strategic advantage in today’s evolving academic environment. Drawing on real-world examples and interactive elements, participants will discover why the most effective leaders acknowledge what they don’t know, learn collaboratively and empower others to succeed. Join us for insights and strategies to enhance collaboration, build trust and strengthen your impact within the campus community.
Community Impact Forum
Thursday, April 16, 2026, noon to 1 p.m., Peter, Wright & McKenna Rooms, Cohon University Center
We’ll provide updates on our Community Impact plan, examine national trends in organizational culture and community engagement, and reaffirm our commitment to a respectful and inclusive learning environment — one that welcomes a range of perspectives and supports the dignity and growth of every individual.