The Cecil Leadership Institute will host a workshop focused on navigating challenging discussions, titled “Difficult Conversations,” on January 8, 2026. Led by executive coach Dr. Kimberly Marucci, the half-day session will take place at Cecil College’s North East Campus in Room D208. This interactive event is open to both alumni of the institute and the general public.
The workshop will address the complexities of high-stakes conversations that leaders often encounter. Organizers emphasize the importance of equipping participants with practical tools to approach emotionally charged dialogues, conflicting viewpoints, and sensitive workplace issues with confidence and empathy. The session will commence with breakfast and networking from 08:00 to 08:30 a.m., followed by the main workshop from 08:30 to 11:30 a.m. A registration fee of $39 applies.
Dr. Marucci will guide attendees through various strategies designed to enhance communication skills. Participants will learn to recognize emotional triggers and overcome common barriers to effective dialogue. The agenda includes techniques for active listening, balancing candor with empathy, and applying structured frameworks for conducting difficult discussions. Participants will engage in hands-on practice through role-play and case studies based on real-world scenarios.
With over 25 years of experience in leadership roles across public and post-secondary education, Dr. Marucci’s expertise encompasses a range of positions, from classroom teacher to chief academic officer. Through her firm, Leading Forward Coach LLC, she specializes in executive coaching, retreats, and leadership workshops that focus on performance and organizational effectiveness.
Registration for the workshop can be completed by calling 410-287-1078 and enrolling in course BIL 142. For further information, interested individuals may contact [email protected] or visit www.cecil.edu/events. More details about the Cecil Leadership Institute can be found at www.cecil.edu/cli.
This workshop represents a significant opportunity for leaders seeking to enhance their communication skills and effectively manage difficult conversations in the workplace.