National Conflict Resolution Day 2026
National Conflict Resolution Day is the annual event of VCU's Office of the Ombudsperson which seeks to "promote awareness of mediation, arbitration, conciliation and other creative, peaceful means of resolving conflict."
Thursday, October 15, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Theme: "Managing Conflict in a Changing Environment"
2026 Keynote Address
Linda Brothers, Georgetown University Staff Ombuds
Linda Brothers is the inaugural University Staff Ombudsperson for Georgetown University, having previously been an ombuds at the National Institutes of Health and Wellesley College. She draws on expertise in facilitation, negotiation, coaching, and systems analysis to help people navigate conflict across multiple constituencies and organizational levels. Learn more >>
9:00-9:15 a.m.
Welcome/Introductions
William E. King, University Ombudsperson
NCRD History at VCU/VCU Proclamation
Dr. Kathleen Rudasill, Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs
9:15-9:30 a.m.
In Their Own Words
Dr. Kelechi C. Ogbonna, Dean of the School of Pharmacy
9:30-10:15 a.m.
Keynote: “The Peacemaker’s Dilemma: Making Peace in a Dysfunctional System”
Keynote Speaker: Linda Brothers, Georgetown University Staff Ombuds
10:30-11:30 a.m.
Small Group Table Discussions
Facilitators: Daniela Brancaforte, Georgetown University; Kimberly Jackson Davidson, George Mason University; Geoff Adelsberg, Virginia Tech University; Sarah Ahmed Atif, George Mason University; Henry Yampolsky, University of Virginia Health
11:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks/Acknowledgements/Thank you
About the VCU Office of the Ombudsperson
VCU's Ombudsperson provides confidential, neutral and informal dispute resolution services for VCU's faculty, staff, postdoctoral trainees and students. The office is available to assist VCU employees and students who seek guidance with the resolution of academic or administrative issues and disputes.