Name
Paying Attention to the Tension to Set Intention: Defining Conflict, Cultivating Change
Date & Time
Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM
Location Name
Crystal A
Session Type
Roundtable
Description

Conflict transformation is a framework focused on harnessing conflict for constructive ends, highlighting the role systems and structures in change (Lederach, 2003). Across Middlebury's Conflict Transformation Collaborative, we have worked with partners in local, national, and global networks focused on the conflict-change nexus. We will explore the range of definitions of 'conflict' necessary to build towards change at multiple scales (macro, meso, micro, 'me-cro') (Author, 2024, Lederach, 2003) and will use the methodology of 'paying attention to the tension to set intention' (Author, 2024), designed for collective reflection, action, and goal setting with an eye towards impact. The interactive session will provide a methodological toolkit for moving forward work at the conflict-change nexus, with collaborators at their institutions and beyond.