Awareness Team

For many years, we have brought together the community of research and transfer managers to exchange ideas, share experiences, and collaboratively find solutions to the challenges in our fields. At the suggestion of the University of Kassel, which will be our host institution in 2026, we have established an Awareness Team for the 2026 annual conference for the first time. This team aims to contribute to a mindful, respectful, and discrimination-sensitive conference environment.

What is an Awareness Team?

The Awareness Team is composed of trained, diverse contacts who will serve as confidential points of contact during the conference. They support participants who feel distressed or have experienced troubling situations, such as discrimination, boundary violations, or inappropriate behavior. Participants may also reach out to the Awareness Team in cases of physical discomfort or if they need rest, a quiet space, or support.

What can an Awareness Team do, and what can it not do?

Awareness signifies mindfulness in dealing with individuals affected by violence and discrimination, as well as the creation of awareness regarding societal power dynamics. Discrimination against marginalized groups is not viewed as an isolated incident. Awareness is both an attitude and action, involving the assumption of responsibility and responding to the fact that boundary violations can occur in any environment. It's important to note that while the presence of an Awareness Team can reduce boundary violations, it cannot prevent them. However, it can support those affected by specific incidents. The focus of the Awareness Team's actions is on the needs and wishes of those affected. They are not required to explain themselves; their subjective perspective on the events will be taken seriously and not questioned. The team is bound by confidentiality, and all reported incidents will be treated confidentially. Information will only be shared with third parties with the consent of the individuals involved.

How can I contact the Awareness Team?

At the conference, you can recognize the members of the Awareness Team by the yellow dot on their badges. However, you may also approach anyone wearing a University of Kassel shirt at any time, as they can connect you with the Awareness Team. If a situation is particularly distressing or if you prefer not to have surrounding individuals witness your contact, you can use the code “Is Louisa here today?” to reach out to any colleague of the local orgainzing committee. They are informed and will assist you in contacting the Awareness Team.