In the March "From the Desk of the Executive Director" message, ICUDDR’s Executive Director, Laurie Krom, reflected on the reality that many of us are carrying significant personal and professional pressures while continuing to show up for our students, colleagues, institutions, and communities. The response from members around the world was both humbling and affirming. Many shared that the message resonated deeply and reflected conversations they were already having within their own organizations and networks.
As promised, ICUDDR is creating opportunities for members to come together around these themes of leadership, resilience, connection, and sustaining ourselves in challenging times.
This summer, we are pleased to offer a free, two-part facilitated conversation series led by Maxine Henry, MSW, MBA, an experienced facilitator whose work focuses on organizational wellness, leadership development, workforce resilience, and helping individuals and teams navigate complexity and change.
While the sessions are connected, each can stand on its own and participants are welcome to attend one or both.
July 1, 2026
Time: 7:00 a.m. U.S. Central | 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern | 1:00 p.m. London | 3:00 p.m. East Africa | 7:00 p.m. Hanoi Not sure what time this is in your location? Find your local time here.
While individual well-being is important, sustainable organizations and communities require more than self-care alone. Building on themes explored in Session 1, this conversation shifts from sustaining ourselves to creating the conditions that help others thrive. Participants will explore how mentorship, coaching, shared leadership, and intentional community-building can create environments where people and organizations are better able to sustain meaningful work over time. Attendance at Session 1 is not required.
June 17, 2026
Time: 7:00 a.m. U.S. Central | 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern | 1:00 p.m. London | 3:00 p.m. East Africa | 7:00 p.m. Hanoi Not sure what time this is in your location? Find your local time here.
Across higher education, workforce development, research, and community engagement, many professionals are continuing to lead, teach, mentor, and support others while navigating significant uncertainty and ongoing challenges. This interactive session will provide space for reflection, connection, and renewal as participants explore practical approaches for sustaining themselves and their work while remaining grounded in purpose and community.
