Deepening Understanding Conference

Creating an Inclusive, Thriving and Connected Environment

For the past several years HDAE Learning & Development has hosted the annual Deepening Understanding (DU) conference. The goal of the conference is to shine a light on the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the work we do and in our lives as a whole. Traditionally, DU has been held on a single day with an opening keynote speaker and several breakout sessions. In the past two years the pandemic has forced us to get creative in the way we hosted the conference, but we knew that keeping the tradition alive was as important as it had ever been. 

“I very much enjoyed this refreshing presentation and having a chance to play and draw with colleagues.”

“It's just what I needed to return to my desk feeling refreshed and ready to start Spring quarter with enthusiasm.”

“What a fun project and such motivating stories! It really helped spark my creativity and gave me a refreshing breath of air after such a hectic Fall and Winter return to campus.”

The 2022 Deepening Understanding event was held in a hybrid style over the four days of spring break week. The focus of this year's conference was self-care and wellness, and how attending to ourselves prepares us to better serve our communities. Over the course of the week a total of 15 breakout sessions were offered, some via Zoom and others as in-person workshops. We were thrilled to offer nine of the workshops in Spanish or with simulations interpreted into Spanish. While this year's conference looked different than years past, we were excited to bring back a keynote speaker and luncheon. Our keynote speaker was Linda Croyle, a housing alum, and her presentation “Building Resilience Through Hope, Healing and Community” reminded participants of the importance of connection and resilience especially during challenging times.  

In addition to Linda's presentation we also had breakout sessions from campus and community leaders on topics such as “Build Your Wellness Toolbox” by Shira Minerd, “La Cultura Cura: Juntos Somos Mas” led by Melissa Cordero and Isabel Lopez, and “Creating Boundaries to Sustain Your Care-Being” led by Tara Jones. We even had sessions offered by our very own HDAE team members Jeremy Guida and Eric Zobel. Jeremy's workshop explored different methods of meditation and offered tips to remove the blocks that prevent us from our practice. Eric's session focused on tapping into creativity and relaxation via the art of drawing. Take a look on the right to see what some participants had to say about the conference. 

Thank you to everyone who helped make Deepening Understanding a success – all our wonderful presenters, those who volunteered to be a workshop host, and to everyone who attended! We are already thinking about the 2023 conference and are looking for committee members. If you are interested please email me at ghuerta@ucsb.edu.