Diversity and Intercultural Leadership

Catalog description

In this interactive course, students will develop skills to serve as compassionate leaders in diverse cultural contexts. It is designed for students who are curious about culture and about how it affects our ability to engage effectively with diverse communities and individuals in our professional and personal lives. The course is divided into three interrelated areas: first, students will examine their own cultural lens and how it shapes our assumptions, interpretations, and judgments. Secondly, students will explore frameworks for understanding cultural differences, with a specific focus on diversity in Minnesota. Lastly, students will gain concrete experience bridging cultural differences through a service-learning experience at a local non-profit or social service organization. Class sessions will be dynamic and include brief presentations, role plays, simulations, and frequent reflection in large and small groups. SPEECH The mission of the Speech Communication department is to provide students opportunities for the acquisition and enhancement of effective communication skills in the context of their personal and professional lives, and to help students recognize the importance of communication competence in a diverse world. The department is committed to promoting cultural awareness, sensitivity and inclusion in its examination of the communication process.