The Neurobiology of Conflict: Why We React Before We Reflect

When conflict arises, staying calm, clear and composed can feel nearly impossible. This presentation explores why: our brains are wired for survival, not serenity. Before we can choose a thoughtful or principled response, we must understand what happens in the brain when we feel threatened, dismissed or disrespected. From the amygdala’s alarm system to the hijacking of our higher reasoning, we’ll examine the neurobiological roots of reactivity. By making these unconscious processes visible, we lay the groundwork for more intentional and effective responses in the moment.

Presenter: Catherine Tornbom, Adjunct Instructor, School of Government & Public Policy

Crisis Negotiation Skills for De-Escalation

Exploring proven philosophies of hostage negotiation to de-escalate safely and consistently using tactical empathy and Stoicism.

Presenter: Sgt. Joseph Berriman, J.D. Professor of Practice, James E. Rogers College of Law
Sergeant, University of Arizona Police Department; SWAT, Team supervisor - Crisis Negotiation Team

Lions and Tigers and Emails, Oh My! Conflict in the Digital World

In the 21st century, conflict is no longer just an "in-person" problem. Instead, conflicts have moved into
the digital sphere including via email, messaging and social media. In this session, participants will learn
to identify why digital conflict can be so difficult to manage and strategies for de-escalating conflict in
the electronic world.

Presenter: Jessie Semmann, Ph.D., Director, Threat Assessment and Management Team

From Challenging Behaviors to Crisis Intervention: Build Your Knowledge,
Build Your Confidence

Addressing challenging behaviors, wherever they happen, can feel overwhelming. How can someone
who doesn’t deal with difficult behaviors very often recognize the difference between a challenging
behavior and a crisis…and then know what to do? The goal of this session is to help participants build
their knowledge and confidence in addressing challenging behaviors and crisis situations with the use
of existing U of A resources. 

Presenters:

• Patti Norris, L.P.C., Crisis Network Manager, U of A Crisis Mobile Team
• Det. John Guetersloh, Mental Health Support Team (MHST) Officer,
  University of Arizona Police Department
• Gabrielle Miller, Ed.D., Assistant Vice Provost, Student Success & Bartlett Family Executive Director,
  Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques (SALT) Center
• Roxana Samaniego, Ph.D., Clinical Director, SALT Center

Beyond the Symposium: Understanding Available Campus Resources for
Managing Conflict and Promoting Wellness

In this session, participants will hear from various campus leaders about how to access or request conflict
resolution trainings, mental health intervention trainings, and direct assistance when facing employment
related conflicts. Includes Q&A. Moderated by Eric Kazmierczak, deputy chief safety officer.

Presenters:

• Aaron Barnes, Psy.D., Director, Counseling & Psychological Services
• Jenna Elmer, Senior Human Resources Partner
• Chrissy Lieberman, Dean of Students
• Gabrielle Miller, Ed.D., Assistant Vice Provost, Student Success & Bartlett Family Executive Director,
  Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques (SALT) Center
• Laqwanda Roberts-Buckley, Program Administrator, Mental Health and Wellness, Life and Work Connections
• Andrea Romero, Ph.D., Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs and Professor, Human Development & Family Science
• Jessie Semmann, Ph.D., Director, Threat Assessment and Management Team