Navigating Difficult Conversations in a Global Context

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

4:30 PM – 5:20 PM PST

In recent years, hate crimes, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism have surged on campuses, fueled by global unrest. NAFSA and international education aim to foster mutual understanding, yet diversity of thought presents challenges. This presentation explores frameworks to promote understanding among various higher education communities.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the root causes of conflictual dialogues on U.S. campuses and analyze the measures taken to mitigate conflict.
Learn about practice models and frameworks implemented by the presenters at Michigan State University, Washington State University.
Create a dialogue opportunity for participants to share their campus practices.

Chair and Presenter(s)

Anjam Chaudhary, PhD

Director Global DEI Programs and Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
Michigan State University

Presenter(s)

KH

Kate M. Hellmann, PhD

Director, International Student and Scholar Services
Washington State University
MS

Melissa Staub, Masters

Director Human Resources
Michigan State University