Here and Now
Suffolk County Community College Publication, Selden, NY
On May 1, professionals from the Eastern, Ammerman and Grant campuses attended “Safe to Relate,” a workshop designed to strengthen cross-cultural relations. The group consisted of staff from admissions and multicultural affairs. Peter Vogel, founder and managing director of CulturePrep, conducted the full-day session. Vogel used three core learning modules—personal, relational, and systemic—to help participants assess attitudes, behaviors, and relationships, all of which have a direct impact on recruitment and retention. Participants also engaged in meaningful dialogue; they shared experiences with cross-cultural conflict and discussed ways to build understanding between staff and students. “Safe to Relate” marks the beginning of future endeavors to improve cross-cultural relations at the College.