Leaders from the Maryland-National Capital Region and surrounding areas recently participated in a four-part leadership seminar series focusing on different approaches to negotiation and conflict resolution. The series was hosted by The Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) in partnership with Harvard University’s National Preparedness Leadership Initiative (NPLI).

Following the principles of meta-leadership, this interactive program explored the dynamics of conflict, and presented pragmatic tools for managing and resolving disagreements. The program was led by NPLI Associate Director and co-author of the book You’re It, Eric McNulty, and homeland security and emergency management subject matter expert Darrell Darnell. The series also also featured presentations by NPLI Co-founding Director and You’re It co-author Dr. Leonard Marcus.

Focusing on the roots and accelerants of conflict, participants developed an understanding of five different approaches to engaging in conflict, as well as two principal approaches to negotiation. The series concluded with participants taking part in a master class that included a negotiation and conflict resolution. The capstone activity culminated their experience, drawing on lessons learned in the course to solve the case. The program was tailored to the emergency response realm, specifically the unique characteristics and nuances of the Maryland-National Capital Region.

The program was well received by attendees and highlighted the need for further leadership development opportunities for emergency response leaders in the Maryland-NCR. As such, MDERS, in partnership with NPLI, is pleased to announce that we will be hosting another series of leadership seminars focused on connectivity and transforming your agency this fall.

For more information on future leadership seminars, please contact Nicole Markuski at Nicole.Markuski1@maryland.gov.