The Devastation on the News

October 16, 2023

There has been so much pain in the Yale community, at YSN, and throughout the world over the past several days as we watch the news in horror. Especially as members of a healing profession, seeing the loss of life and the suffering on such a massive scale is devastating.

Hatred and the violence it provokes are learned behaviors. We can learn to do better. We can extend compassion to each other and engage compassionately in the communities we serve. I am reminded of our school’s mission: better health for all people. No matter who. No matter where.

I echo President Salovey’s call for peace in his recent message, and I am sharing more about an upcoming resource for the YSN community below.

Yale School of Nursing (YSN) Resource: Caring Circles

To create a space for dialogue and mutual understanding at YSN, the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (ODEIB) and the YSN Office of Student Life (OSL) are partnering to provide Caring Circles, using the Circle Communication Model. Further information with specific links for YSN students, faculty, and staff to sign up for sessions is forthcoming. 

“Circle communication is a form of group exchange that builds a network of relationships, a sense of community. Through practices of active listening, intentional speaking, and conscious self-monitoring, circle communication emphasizes individual contribution while building consensus to fulfill the purpose of the group.” (Michaels, 2002).

Removing perceived power differentials is essential in making space for individuals to have opportunities to feel safe. Therefore, we feel it best to hold facilitated student only, staff only, and faculty only small group circles. If desired, at the culmination of the small circles with each constituency, we can discuss having combined circle sessions.

The process:

  • Each session will be open to a maximum of 10 participants with 3-4 facilitators. 
  • Each individual will have the opportunity to share, but attendees are NOT required to speak. Oftentimes, healing happens by simply being in a supportive space.
  • Each session will last 30 minutes.
  • Any attendee who would like additional support following the sessions should reach out to either Dr. Angela Richard-Eaglin, Dean Erin Morelli, Heather Reynolds, and/or Nwanne Njoku.

Please note: This blog post reflects the views and perspective of Dean Azita Emami, not Yale University.