In honor of International Conflict Resolution Day, the public is invited to this free, in-person workshop.

A reception with pupu begins at 4:30 p.m. Parking is free on campus after 4 p.m.

The evening begins with a "Meet A Stranger Every Day” talk story with Rotarian Alan Okinaka

EMPATHY: The "Path" to Understanding Another's Point of View

Workshop Presenter: Jo Hittner, PhD

"Empathy is needed more than ever in times of high conflict and low morale," says Jo. "In today’s contentious society, we are seeing a refocus on communication and kindness. If these social skills are so necessary, how do we develop them or fine-tune them?"

In this interactive session, let's explore the relationship between empathy and compassion, sympathy and active listening, and their effects in everyday life. Discover the benefits of empathy that are found in current research as well practice exercises to further hone your empathy skills.

Jo Hittner, Ph.D. has worked in the counseling/psychology field for over 40 years. She holds a doctorate in counseling from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Before retirement, she was a professor at Winona State University, Minnesota. Currently, Jo is a professionally trained volunteer mediator at Ku'ikahi Mediation Center. Empathy and its effects are at the core of her beliefs in making the world a more peaceful place.

This event is the seventh in the "Kakou: Let's Work It Out!" workshop series, co-hosted by the County of Hawai'i Mayor's Office, County of Hawai'i Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Ku'ikahi Mediation Center, Rotary Club of Hilo, Rotary Club of Hilo Bay, Rotary Club of South Hilo, Rotary Club of Volcano, UH-Hilo Political Science & Administration of Justice Department, and UH-Hilo International Student Services & Intercultural Education Office.