Over the summer, the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (OIDEI) posted an opening for the newly created position of Dialogue Facilitator. According to the College’s website, the position calls for “a visionary leader to grow and manage restorative practices and support mediation efforts in our community.” While the position has yet to be filled, OIDEI is currently reviewing applications and hopes to make a hire as soon as possible.

Discussion of the position began more than a year ago. “Over the years, there’s been an increase in the demand for support in conversation and communication, and we have engaged in robust efforts to resolve conflicts through mediation and facilitated conversations,” Toya Camacho, assistant vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion, Title IX coordinator and ADA coordinator, said. “We recognize that it can be beneficial to have constituents on campus versed in restorative practices so that when challenging communication occurs, we appropriately address it and support those involved.”

The selection decision will be made by a search committee headed by Camacho, with student, faculty and staff representation. The committee will first invite candidates to campus, then solicit feedback from community members to inform its final decision. “We hope the individual will help integrate restorative practices and effective communication models on campus to help improve conversation, collaboration and interconnection by providing individuals with tools to resolve conflict, solve problems and communicate more effectively with others,” Camacho said. “This will help make Williams the best possible place for everyone to live, learn and thrive.”

The College’s website cites experience with restorative practices and conflict mediation as important qualifications for the new position. It also specifies that the candidate should have at least five years of relevant experience and preferably a master’s degree. “The College is committed to supporting the work of institutional diversity, equity and inclusion and adapting to meet the growing and evolving needs of our campus,” Camacho said. “This new position will add to our efforts to become a campus where diversity, equity and inclusion are infused in all facets of the college community.”

Although Camacho was unsure of when the position would be filled, she expressed excitement for the new hire to join the OIDEI team and bring fresh ideas to the office’s multitude of programs and initiatives. “We hope to have someone on board as soon as possible and aim to do so once the search process is complete,” she said.