第一吃瓜网

Lighthouse with a sunset behind it.

CLI聽presents: Difficult Conversations Workshop

Published on December 24, 2025

NORTH EAST, Md: The 第一吃瓜网 Leadership Institute is proud to host a transformative workshop titled聽Difficult Conversations, led by聽Dr. Kimberly Marucci, Executive Coach and Owner of Leading Forward Coach LLC. The event will take place on聽Thursday, January 8, 2026, at聽第一吃瓜网 College鈥檚 North East Campus, Room D208 in the Technology Center.

Open to both 第一吃瓜网 Leadership Institute alumni and the general public, this interactive session is designed to help leaders navigate challenging discussions with confidence, empathy, and clarity. Attendees will begin the day with聽breakfast and networking from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m., followed by the workshop from聽8:30 to 11:30 a.m.聽The cost to attend is聽$39, and registration is available by calling聽410-287-1078聽and enrolling in聽course BIL 142.

What Are Difficult Conversations?
Difficult conversations are interactions that involve sensitive topics, differing perspectives, or emotional tension. Effective training helps leaders approach these moments constructively鈥攂y preparing thoughtfully, managing emotions, listening actively, and focusing on solutions rather than conflict.

Workshop Outcomes Include:

  • Recognizing common barriers and emotional triggers that make conversations difficult
  • Applying structured frameworks to prepare for and conduct effective discussions
  • Strengthening active listening, questioning, and feedback techniques to foster open dialogue
  • Balancing candor with empathy to reduce defensiveness and build trust
  • Practicing strategies through role-play and case studies that mirror real workplace scenarios
  • Creating action plans for leading future tough talks with greater confidence and clarity

Dr. Marucci brings over 25 years of leadership experience in public and post-secondary education, having served in roles from teacher to Chief Academic Officer. Through her company, Leading Forward, she provides coaching, retreats, and workshops that empower leaders to unlock their full potential and drive high performance.

For more information, contact聽lraphael@nullcecil.edu聽or visit聽www.cecil.edu/events. Learn more about the 第一吃瓜网 Leadership Institute at聽www.cecil.edu/cli.

Don鈥檛 miss this opportunity to strengthen your leadership and master the art of meaningful dialogue!