University of Vermont
EN-9: Staff Professional Development

Blackboard Jungle Symposium commenced in 2008 under the vision, leadership, and deep commitment of then-Associate Provost for Multicultural Affairs and Academic Initiatives, Dr. Wanda Heading-Grant. 2016 marks the opening event of UVM’s 9th annual Blackboard Jungle Symposium and Dr. Heading-Grant, now Vice President for Human Resources, Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, has succeeded in making this one of the University’s premier learning events. Blackboard Jungle was created to specifically complement the key tenets of the University of Vermont’s six-credit Diversity Graduation Requirement. Every incoming student has to take two diversity courses. Three of the credits have to focus on race and racism in the United States. Due to its success, in its third year it was opened up to both faculty and staff. Over the years, this program has grown to include colleagues from across campus, and throughout the region, who want to develop skills, knowledge, and a deeper understanding of diversity and social justice that supports excellence in teaching, service, and research. The symposium sessions are dedicated to creating “open spaces” where all members of our community can participate in authentic dialogue, valued reflection, and expanded learning to promote inclusive excellence for all. The kickoff event includes students and the larger community. The second day is a full day of building, learning and reflection for faculty and staff. The Professional Development and Training department offers regular classes that are available to all staff as part of UVM’s interest in maintaining lifelong learners. These trainings include a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion track that covers many social sustainability topics: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Cross Cultural Communication at the Front Desk Developing a Diversity Plan Exploring Gender Identity Gender 101 - Exploring the Impact of Gender Norms & Expectations in Everyday Life Introduction to Culture LGBTQA Vocabulary and Identity 101 Universal Design for Learning: Applications in Our Work What is Prejudice Really - Part 1 & Part 2 What is Race and Why Does it Matter - Part 1 & Part 2 Other courses that include sustainability topics are: Rethinking Change Retirement Savings Plan Information EDU@UVM edu@uvm is a three-day signature learning event focused on staff development. Important themes like diversity, social justice, and commitment to Our Common Ground are woven throughout the workshops which are grouped in six broad tracks: Career Development / Getting to Know UVM Communication Skills Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Technology Wellness The 2016/17 academic year EDU@UVM features a 1.5 hour campus sustainability tour: How does “being green” at UVM actually work, behind the scenes? How do our community’s aspirations for more sustainable energy use, food purchasing, transportation, waste handling, and building construction translate into campus life? Specifically, what does “green building” mean? How are food scraps collected for compost in the Davis Center, without making a stink? What is the “Living Machine” and how does it work? Learn from the experts as you take a walking tour of several campus buildings to see how systems work to reduce our collective impact, and how these systems have evolved. The session starts with a brief overview and exploration of participants’ interests, follows with a 75-minute walking tour, and closes with a discussion. Help us prepare by sending your questions and green pet peeves to us in advance. Additional professional development opportunities that are open to all staff but not managed through the Professional Development and Training office include: All Earth Week events Clean Energy Series Gund Institute for Ecological Economics “Gund Tea” series

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