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University Equity and Inclusion
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Virtual Learning Community

Virtual Learning Community Book Group

The Virtual Learning Community (VLC) will meet virtually 6 times as a group to discuss the book 'What if I Say The Wrong Thing?' by Vernā A. Myers from noon to 1 pm on the following Thursdays via Zoom: February 1, February 15, February 22, February 29, March 7, and March 21.

Participants will recognize challenges, develop tools for more thoughtful interactions across difference, and understand how our attempts at finding connections can be improved with greater awareness and skill development.

Registration will close at 5 pm on Jan. 22, 2024, or when the 100 person capacity limit is reached.

Discussion Guides

"What If I Say The Wrong Thing?" is a highly rated, short, easily digestible handbook of thought-provoking tips on how to be, and how to help others become, more culturally effective.  Author Vernā Myers explores the pitfalls of engaging across difference and offers solutions in powerful but accessible ways. 

Meet The Lead

The VLC Book Group lead convenes each session prior to small group discussion and close each session with a larger group reflection.

Kaylin Padovano

Diversity Education and Outreach Lead | Facilitator

What are the benefits of joining a virtual learning community?

92%

of participants surveyed report that they have a greater respect for people who are different from them as well as reporting a greater sense of community with Rutgers colleagues

80%

of participants stated that they are more confident in leading conversations with a diverse group of peers

72%

report feeling less stress when interacting with people different from themselves as a result of participating in the VLC