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Faculty members and librarians interested in fostering more inclusive and responsive learning and working environments are invited to register for “Invisible Barriers”—a day of collaborative development focused on meaningful conversation, practical strategies, and community building to explore the barriers we do not always see and the opportunities we can create together—Friday, Nov. 6 at the Amherst Room of the Campus Center. 

Breakfast and networking will start at 9:00 a.m., the program will run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and lunch will be provided. The event is presented by the Office of the Provost and will be hosted by Instructional Excellence (comprised of the Center for Teaching and Learning and IDEAS—Instructional Design, Engagement, and Support), the Office of Faculty Development and the Office of Faculty Diversity.

Throughout the day, attendees will explore how both visible and invisible aspects of identity shape teaching, learning, mentoring, leadership and a sense of belonging at UMass Amherst. Engaging discussions, a thought-provoking panel conversation, and interactive workshops will guide participants in considering the following questions:

• What do we notice and overlook in ourselves and others?
• How do invisible barriers influence participation, engagement, and belonging?
• What shapes the parts of ourselves that we choose to make visible in professional settings?
• How can feedback support growth without creating unintended barriers?

Featured sessions will include “The Visible, the Invisible, and the In-Between: A Shared Exploration of Identity,” a panel discussion titled “Between Visibility and Vulnerability: Navigating Identity at Work,” a hands-on station rotation titled “Who Counts as Engaged? Challenging Assumptions About Participation and Learning,” and an interactive workshop titled “Making Feedback Meaningful: UDL for Individual Mentoring, Advising and Supervision.”

During the event, anyone whose work centers on teaching, mentoring, advising, supervision, librarianship, leadership, or service, will find an opportunity to reflect with colleagues, gain practical strategies, and strengthen the shared commitment to creating a university where everyone can thrive. 

Full details and a link to register to attend the event can be found on the Provost’s Office website.