WSU Supports the Northwest Dental Group Team with Diversity Training

Winona State University (WSU) recently partnered with the Northwest Dental Group Team to provide an enriching Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training program. This initiative aimed to enhance cultural awareness, team collaboration, and inclusive practices within the workplace.

WSU collaborated with The Minnesota Group, a renowned consultant team, to deliver this comprehensive training. The program was divided into two workshops tailored to different teams within the Northwest Dental Group.

The Minnesota Group consultants—Char, Ron, and Jyoti—brought over 50 years of combined experience in higher education and a lifetime of hands-on experience to the training. Their approach is steeped in compassion, scholarship, experience, and activism, ensuring a rich and impactful learning experience for all attendees.

The first workshop, “Culture and Communication,” was designed for the Business Team, including front desk and call center staff. This hands-on workshop delved into the influence of cultural values in the workplace and equipped participants with practical tools to improve communication across cultural boundaries. Participants in the Business Communication segment gained awareness of cultural values in the workplace and identified common causes of miscommunication.

The second workshop, “Culture, Advocacy, and Effective Communication” was tailored for the Leadership Team. This session expanded on the theory of cultural humility and explored personal cultural values. It emphasized the importance of understanding cultural norms to foster effective workplace communication. The workshop also covered advocacy and allyship, using activities and scenarios to deepen participants’ communication skills.

Participants of both workshops reported elevated awareness, increased compassion, and a deeper understanding of empathy towards themselves, their team members, and their patients.