The Faculty Development and Diversity Committee is helping sponsor a visit next week from Dan O’Connell. Dr. O’Connell is a clinical psychologist with an expertise in communication. His public talk at BU will focus on how to deal with disruptive colleagues.
In just my first few weeks here, I have already heard stories about doctors who physically bully co-workers, humiliate students, and intimidate younger colleagues. I have no reason to believe that BU is exceptional.
In a tragic story from today’s New York Times a doctor shot and killed another doctor in Connecticut after clashing while working together. After the mass murder earlier this year by a professor at the University of Alabama, it is clear that higher education is not immune to workplace violence.
After Dr. O’Connell’s visit, I will report on his suggestions for dealing with disagreements in the workplace.