Engage, Empower, Educate: Explore Essential Partners’ 2025 Workshop Lineup

Essential Partners, a member organization of NCDD, exemplifies the power of dialogue in bridging divides. Through their Reflective Structured Dialogue (RSD) model, they empower individuals and institutions to engage across differences with empathy and skill. Upcoming workshops in May, June, and July 2025 will offer immersive training for educators and dialogue practitioners to create inclusive and resilient communities—from college classrooms to high school settings. Their work aligns closely with NCDD’s mission and provides accessible, impactful tools for navigating today’s most complex conversations. Read more in the blog post below.

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​At NCDD, we believe in the transformative power of dialogue to bridge divides and strengthen communities. Today, we're delighted to shine a spotlight on Essential Partners, one of our valued Friend organizations that exemplifies excellence in dialogue facilitation and education.

​Who is Essential Partners?

​Essential Partners is a leading organization dedicated to building bridges across differences through their signature approach called Reflective Structured Dialogue (RSD). Their mission aligns beautifully with NCDD's commitment to fostering constructive communication in divided communities. Through workshops, training programs, and facilitated experiences, Essential Partners empowers individuals and institutions to navigate challenging conversations with empathy and understanding.

Upcoming Workshops: May, June, and July 2025

May 2025: Experience Reflective Structured Dialogue
May 6, 2025 | 3:00-6:00 PM Eastern Time
​This three-hour introduction provides a complete Reflective Structured Dialogue experience, allowing participants to engage in a live, facilitated dialogue with others. It's an excellent opportunity to experience firsthand how RSD can create healthier communication dynamics and stronger relationships across differences. Perfect for those curious about dialogue practices or considering implementing them in their own contexts.
Register here: whatisessential.org/events/essential-partners-dialogue-experience

June 2025: The Dialogic Classroom Workshop for Higher Ed Faculty
June 4-5, 2025 | 9:30 AM-5:00 PM Eastern Time
Designed specifically for higher education instructors, this workshop equips faculty with tools to improve class discussions around divisive topics like the Israel-Hamas War, race and history, and gender identity. Participants will learn techniques to create a more inclusive classroom environment, foster curiosity as the driver of learning, and help students feel more connected to the school community—all while improving academic performance.
Register here: whatisessential.org/events/dialogic-classroom-workshop-higher-ed

July 2025: Dialogic Classroom Pedagogy Workshop for Secondary School Educators
July 15-17, 2025 | 10:00 AM-3:30 PM Eastern Time
This three-day workshop is tailored for middle and high school teachers who want to enhance student engagement and create resilient classroom environments. Participants will learn how to embed dialogic practices into every unit and course, helping students develop stronger social-emotional skills and the ability to navigate differences of values and identities—critical skills for success in diverse college and career contexts.
Register here: whatisessential.org/events/workshop/dialogic-classroom-workshop-middle-and-high-school-educators

Join the Conversation

​We encourage the NCDD community to explore these rich opportunities Essential Partners offers throughout the coming months. Whether you're an educator looking to transform your classroom or simply curious about dialogue practices, these workshops provide valuable entry points to experience the power of structured dialogue.
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To register for any of these events or to learn more, visit Essential Partners' website. And as you engage with their work, remember that you're part of a larger movement—one that believes in the power of dialogue to heal divisions and create more cohesive communities.