From May 30th to June 1st IMTD Director of Training Dr. Eileen Borris along with Ambassador John W. McDonald offered 16 M.S. and Ph.D. students in conflict analysis and resolution a unique and intensive opportunity to learn about the role of trauma healing and forgiveness in the process of reconciliation. The students, from the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (ICAR) at George Mason University, took part in three days of coursework that involved traditional instruction as well as film, guest speakers, storytelling and deep personal reflection. One goal of the course was to reintroduce a human element into the academic study of conflict resolution.

Dr. Borris talked about the key concepts of the course (trauma, forgiveness, and reconciliation) and invited students to consider what these terms meant for them in their own personal lives. Personal stories were shared as illustrations of the key role trauma healing and forgiveness play in restoring societies torn apart by violence.

The perspectives of the instructors were enriched by those brought by guest speakers Dr. Douglas Johnston (President and Founder of the International Center for Religion and Diplomacy), Dr. Richard Ruffin (Executive Vice President of Initiatives of Change International) and documentary film maker Mrs. Laura Waters Hinson whose film As We Forgive gave the class a vivid and inspiring glimpse into post-conflict reconciliation in Rwanda.

In evaluating the course many students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reflect more on the human element of conflict and peacebuilding, and to explore deeply what it takes to create personal transformations that can, in turn, help transform war torn societies. IMTD is looking forward to the possibility of sharing this class again with another remarkable group of graduate students in the near future.