IBSC Ideas Lab
Professional Conversations for Directors of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Boys’ Schools in North America
Starting October 10, 2024
IBSC Ideas Lab invites directors of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at member schools to connect virtually using the free online tool Zoom. Limited to 14 participants plus the facilitator, this IBSC Ideas Lab includes three one-hour sessions for participants to discuss relevant topics.
Designed as an interactive exchange among colleagues, IBSC Ideas Lab engages dedicated educators who learn and grow together. Before each session, participants engage with relevant resources to provide a foundation for discussions. Together we surface fresh ideas and build mutual support structures and enduring professional friendships.
Available exclusively to IBSC member schools, first-time participants who can commit to joining all three sessions get preference in registration to support the success of each small group. No more than two participants from one school may register for an IBSC Ideas Lab.
In the spirit of open dialogue and collaboration, IBSC Ideas Labs are not recorded, allowing participants the freedom to express themselves openly and share their experiences candidly.
Who Should Attend?
Directors of diversity, equity, and inclusion at member schools in North America
Format
IBSC Ideas Lab attendees participate in three scheduled one-hour calls using Zoom. Caleb Collins, director of community and diversity at Belmont Hill School (United States), facilitates each session.
Conversation Topics
Conversation 1
Embracing Diversity, Understanding Differences: Cultivating Cultural Competency in Boys' Schools
Thursday, October 10, 4:00 PM EDT
60 minutes
Examine the importance of cultural competency in building a truly inclusive and equitable school environment. Explore the principles of cultural awareness, sensitivity to diverse perspectives, and navigating cross-cultural communication. Discuss strategies for embedding cultural competency development in student programs, faculty training, and community-wide initiatives, empowering everyone to thrive in a diverse world.
Conversation 2
Amplifying Voices, Shaping the Future: Partnering with Alumni of Color in DEI Efforts
Thursday, October 17, 4:00 PM EDT
60 minutes
Explore strategies for engaging alumni of color as powerful allies and advocates in your school's DEI initiatives. Examine how to leverage their lived experiences and perspectives to inform policy, mentorship, and community-building efforts. Discuss best practices for creating meaningful partnerships, fostering alumni investment, and tapping into an invaluable resource for advancing equity and inclusion.
Conversation 3
Building Bridges: Fostering Inclusivity and Belonging for Students Receiving Financial Aid
Thursday, October 24, 4:00 PM EDT
60 minutes
Delve into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by students receiving financial aid in boys' schools. Explore strategies to create a truly inclusive environment where socioeconomic background doesn't hinder full participation and a sense of belonging. Discuss ways to empower students, foster peer-to-peer support networks, and create programs that nurture their potential and talents.
Registration
IBSC member rate: US $170
Refund Policy
IBSC will refund 90% of registration fees if a written request is received by September 26, 2024. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after this time. Schools seeking to register an alternate to replace a participant unable to attend should contact IBSC@theibsc.org.
Please note: Watch your email for login information for this IBSC Ideas Lab by October 3, 2024. If you registered after this date, watch for login information within 24 hours.
Participation certificates: Participants present for all three conversations will receive a certificate of participation within two weeks of the final session.
Facilitator
Caleb Collins
Caleb Collins is a Class of '93 alumnus of Belmont Hill School (United States) who now serves as the director of community and diversity at the school. He has taught geometry and pre-calculus at Belmont Hill since 2002. Collins also coaches the third basketball and third football teams.
On his work at Belmont Hill School, Collins says, “Our motto of ‘Working Together,’ is meaningful only if every boy on this campus feels a genuine sense of belonging: that he is loved, cared for, cherished. In order to fulfill our mission of developing men of good character, we must foster an environment in which empathy, compassion, and understanding thrive so that all voices are welcomed, listened to, and respected. We must be willing to walk in our brother’s shoes. This is how we best learn and grow here on the Hill.”