NEW Online Learning Program for County Officials
NOW AVAILABLE: Convergence Compass Pilot Cohort Program
A joint pilot between Convergence and the National Association of Counties
This is a complimentary opportunity exclusive to county officials!
Convergence and NACo’s Online Learning Program for County Officials
NOW AVAILABLE: Convergence Compass Pilot Cohort Program
Convergence Center for Policy Resolution – the leading organization in bridging divides to solve critical issues – has partnered with NACo to offer county officials a first-of-its-kind online cohort learning experience to build capacities to address tensions and collaboratively solve problems.
The United States is more polarized than ever before. Tensions exist in all sectors, especially across government and between county governments and their communities. Public meetings increasingly veer out of control, highlighting the urgency for county and other local leaders to develop the skills and strategies needed to bridge divides and collaborate across differences. County officials are uniquely trusted by the American people to solve local problems. This cohort program will provide tools, strategies, and peer support needed to meet this moment with confidence and lead effectively in times of division.
Thanks to a grant from the JAMS Foundation, we are offering this pilot program free of charge.
Due to the pilot cohort program’s specialized focus, the application process is competitive. We are seeking county officials eager to address real-world challenges and apply course concepts in practice, all while receiving ongoing support and coaching throughout the program.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of April 30. If you’re ready to enhance your leadership capacity and champion collaborative solutions, we encourage you to apply today!
What is the Convergence Compass Pilot Cohort Program?
The Convergence Compass pilot cohort program is a free, highly interactive 11-week virtual experience designed to equip leaders like you with proven strategies and practical tools to bridge divides, resolve conflict, and collaboratively solve complex challenges in your community.
The program explores what drives division and teaches evidence-based strategies for effective dialogue and collaborative problem-solving – even in the most contentious situations. The material was designed by Convergence in partnership with Constructive Dialogue Institute and UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center.
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
- Understanding Polarization: The Root of Division – This section will provide an overview of polarization and its impacts on relationships, society, and politics. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of the conflicts and tensions that exist in communities and organizations, setting the stage for deeper exploration of conflict resolution strategies.
- Conflict and the Brain: The Psychology of Conflict and its Resolution – This unit explores some of the ways that the brain operates that lead to conflict and how understanding these factors can lead to better conflict management. Participants will learn concrete tools to address cognitive biases such as attribution error, either/or thinking, and confirmation bias. Additionally, it delves into the brain science and research that inform the full program.
- Bridging Divides: Strategies for Effective Dialogue – Building upon earlier content, this unit equips participants with practical strategies and skills to engage in difficult conversations, build relationships, and solve problems, and provides an overview of the science behind these strategies.
- Collaborative Problem-Solving: From Conflict to Solutions – This final section offers a comprehensive roadmap for applying the collaborative problem-solving process. From conflict analysis and stakeholder identification to convening discussions, building relationships, and forging consensus solutions, participants will learn how to put their knowledge into action.
Why should I participate in the Convergence Compass Pilot Cohort Program?
As a county leader, you are uniquely positioned to address complex local challenges. This cohort program will enhance your ability to:
- Communicate effectively during conflict
- Ask powerful questions to foster dialogue
- Identify shared interests and goals
- Apply collaborative problem-solving skills to real-world challenges in your community
You will participate in live, 90-minute Zoom sessions every two weeks, led by an experienced practitioner and coach in conflict resolution and collaborative problem-solving. These interactive sessions provide a valuable opportunity to learn alongside a diverse group of county officials, exchange insights, and practice skills for addressing complex challenges.
Through expert guidance and peer collaboration, you will develop the skills, confidence, and network needed to navigate conflicts and drive meaningful change with a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.
This is the only time this program will be offered at no cost, making it a unique opportunity to receive high-value training and insights. Don’t miss your chance to participate!
What kind of commitment will the Convergence Compass Pilot Cohort Program require?
Active participation is required for all scheduled cohort sessions, with online coursework and readings to be completed between sessions.
Cohort sessions will be held on Mondays via Zoom. All times noted are in Central Time (CT).
- June 30 at 2:00 p.m. – 60 minutes
- July 14 at 2:00 p.m. – 90 minutes (NOTE: We recognize this date conflicts with the final day of the NACo Annual Conference and will work with the cohort to identify an alternative)
- July 28 at 2:00 p.m. – 90 minutes
- August 11 at 2:00 p.m. – 90 minutes
- August 25 at 2:00 p.m. – 90 minutes
- September 8 at 2:00 p.m. – 90 minutes
Questions?
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Programs Director, Gabriel Herrera.
Can’t join the pilot cohort program? The Convergence Compass online learning program – offered as a self-paced option without the cohort component – will be available later this year. Stay tuned!
