Cecil Leadership Institute Offers Workshop on Difficult Conversations

The Cecil Leadership Institute is addressing a critical aspect of leadership by hosting a workshop focused on navigating difficult conversations. Titled “Difficult Conversations,” this interactive event will take place on January 8, 2026, at Cecil College’s North East Campus, specifically in Room D208 of the Technology Center. The workshop is open to both alumni of the institute and the general public.

Workshop Details and Objectives

Conducted by executive coach Dr. Kimberly Marucci, the half-day session is designed for leaders who often engage in emotionally charged discussions or face conflicting viewpoints. Participants will acquire practical tools to approach these challenging dialogues with confidence, empathy, and clarity. The workshop will commence with breakfast and networking from 08:00 to 08:30, followed by the main session from 08:30 to 11:30.

Registration for the workshop is set at $39, with participants encouraged to register in advance by calling 410-287-1078 and enrolling in course BIL 142. Those seeking additional information can reach out via email at [email protected] or visit the institute’s website at www.cecil.edu/events.

Focus and Expertise

The workshop aims to equip leaders with the skills to recognize emotional triggers and overcome common communication barriers. Dr. Marucci will guide attendees through structured frameworks for preparing and conducting challenging discussions. The agenda includes techniques for active listening, balancing candor with empathy, and hands-on role-playing exercises based on real-world workplace scenarios.

With over 25 years of leadership experience in public and post-secondary education, Dr. Marucci has held various roles, from classroom teacher to chief academic officer. Through her firm, Leading Forward Coach LLC, she focuses on enhancing performance, communication, and organizational effectiveness through executive coaching and leadership workshops.

The Cecil Leadership Institute continually seeks to develop the skills of current and future leaders, fostering an environment where effective communication can thrive. For further details about the institute and its offerings, interested parties can visit www.cecil.edu/cli.

As the demand for effective leadership grows, this workshop presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to refine their communication skills and tackle difficult conversations head-on.