In the wake of the post-pandemic mental health crisis, occupational stress and burnout have worsened, leading to increased disparities between employers and employees. Trauma and its effect continue to grow due to inadequate support systems and leaders ill-equipped to provide necessary resources for individuals to cope and succeed. It is crucial to prioritize proper training, resources, and support to holistically manage the mental health of our workforce. This session will focus on building resilience from stress and trauma by creating a more supportive environment. The breakdown in connections and trust stems from a lack of focus, high-speed interactions, and diminished interpersonal relationships. Therefore, it is imperative for leaders to dismantle existing barriers and construct bridges to close the divide. The cultivation of kindness in interpersonal communication has emerged as a critical leadership attribute and practice. It has been demonstrated through research in contemplative neuroscience that kindness and related competencies can be developed through training, resulting in both functional and structural changes in the brain. The integration of kindness into leadership and organizational culture can significantly influence increased productivity, enhanced engagement, and  improved retention, particularly in the midst of a turbulent and disruptive landscape. Kindness has the remarkable ability to set off a chain reaction of positive emotions, not only uplifting the giver but also inspiring those who witness or receive it. These uplifting emotions create a more nurturing and harmonious atmosphere, whether it's within personal relationships, workplaces, or communities. The more kindness is embraced and practiced, the more it ripples out, becoming a truly infectious and powerful catalyst for positive change. 

Clarine Jacobs completed her PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Doctorate of Business Administration to continue her passions in teaching, learning, and leadership. Through so many tragedies in her life, she found resilience in kindness. Focusing on others allows us to see beyond our pain. It has become her mission to study the brain to further understand the immense complexity of this organ and how kindness can transform teaching, learning, and leadership.