Disrupting Academic Bullying

Presented by: Dr. Bryan J Hanson, Ombudsperson, The Graduate School at Virginia Tech

Workshop overview:
Multiple dynamics within higher education institutions make academic bullying a complex issue. Major forces include the hierarchical nature of academia creating power and privilege dynamics, competitive environments with limited resources, and perceived barriers for discouraging toxic behavior. Fear often prohibits individuals from speaking up. Bullying can lead to psychological and physical harm of individuals and can create a culture that is hostile, unproductive, and demoralizing.

In this workshop, we will develop a shared understanding of the definitions and attributes associated with academic bullying. Interactive exercises and case study analysis will equip participants with the skills to address peer to peer and other forms of bullying. Participants will also learn intervention strategies to apply when they observe bullying. We will share resources and campus support structures to help individuals and leaders create a constructive environment. Participants will acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to facilitate the difficult conversation necessary to disrupt and prevent academic bullying.

About Bryan Hanson:
Bryan Hanson is an ombuds, educator, mediator, facilitator, and leader in the field of conflict engagement. Currently, Dr. Hanson is the ombuds for the Graduate School at Virginia Tech. In this role, he works with members of the Graduate School community so they may engage in and manage conflict in a constructive way. He has served on several national and state conflict resolution and mediation boards. He was a member of the Nebraska Office of Dispute Resolution’s advisory council, appointed by the state’s Supreme Court. Dr. Hanson has conducted numerous workshops on mediation and conflict resolution and has presented at several national conventions on the role of mediators and conflict specialists. He has also published articles on dispute resolution and the conflict field. Dr. Hanson earned a bachelor’s degree in speech communications from Minnesota State University, a master’s degree in organizational psychology and a graduate certificate in organizational conflict management from John F. Kennedy University, and a doctorate in interdisciplinary leadership from Creighton University.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence is co-sponsoring this event with Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE).

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