2024 Agenda

In today's fast-paced world, we often rely on assumptions and end up overlooking crucial details. In this interactive session, Amy Herman uses works of art to sharpen our observation skills, expose hidden biases that can cloud our interactions with families, and develop strategies for clear and concise communication. 

Herman, a lawyer and art historian, developed this program to improve medical students' observation and communication skills with their patients. She has adapted sessions for a wide range of professionals globally including the New York City Police Department, the FBI, the Department of Defense, Interpol, the State Department, Fortune 500 companies, first responders, the military and the intelligence community. 

By showing people how to look closely at painting, sculpture and photography, Herman demonstrates the relevance of visual intelligence across the professional spectrum. Together, we’ll learn how analyzing works of art provides an innovative way to refresh your sense of critical inquiry and reconsider the skills necessary for improved performance, effective leadership and insightful customer service.

Professor Jason Arday is a social commentator, presenter, and public speaker, but at three years old, he was diagnosed with global development delay and autism spectrum disorder. He did not speak until he was eleven years old and could not read or write until he was eighteen. Today he is the 2002 Professorial Chair of Education (Sociology of Education) at the University of Cambridge, making him the youngest-ever Black academic to hold a Professorship at Cambridge and one of the youngest academics ever appointed to a Professorial Chair in Oxbridge’s history. 

In addition to sharing his story of hope and inspiration worldwide, Jason has been a prolific fundraiser having raised over £5 million pounds for 80 British charities over an 18-year period. He has won numerous national and community fundraising awards for achievements such as: running 30 marathons in 35 days, 300 miles in 3 days and 600 miles in 6 days; relief work in South America and West Africa installing water points for access to clean water; and setting up drives across London to develop facilities for individuals experiencing homelessness. The highlight of these fundraising achievements culminated in the selection to be an Olympic Torch Bearer for the London 2012 Olympics.