BC Staff, Students Train in Restorative Practices

By nataliE arndt Assoc. News Editor

Boston College is looking to expand its use of restorative practices to broader community building, according to Melissa Woolsey, the associate dean of student conduct.

“Restorative practices look to really loop in that community aspect,” Woolsey said. “What is BC’s stance, purpose, needs, when it comes to conflict and other issues, especially around inclusion, belonging, and community building?”

In collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Students recently sponsored three-day training workshops surrounding restorative practices.

Four experts from the University of San Diego Center for Restorative Justice led 50 students, faculty, and staff members in the training from Jan. 11 to 13.

Restorative practices are based on the idea of restorative justice, a voluntary practice where a meditator typically leads a victim and offender in a discussion.

The victim can share how they were affected, and all parties can attempt to resolve past harm.