Subject: Learning how to get organizational systems in closer harmony with natural systems; a scientific-spiritual perspective on organizations and their role on the earth. Or: Keeping balance in systems and systems in balance.

What This is About: This will be a day for us to examine the role that OD plays in the world. It will offer a fascinating angle on our fundamental assumptions about what we do – and what we can do. Is it enough for us to help individual organizations achieve their missions? Is this the be-all and end-all of our work? The world has changed. Are we willing to confront thorny new questions about the relationship between organizations and the earth?

Miriam MacGillis will show us a new framework for thinking about a) the human’s relationship with the earth, b) the central role of well-run companies and systems in the coming decades, and c) the increasingly important role of OD practitioners.

This day, which includes a variety of experiential activities as well as important conceptual material, goes far beyond skill-building. It presents a challenge to our profession to live up to its full potential as facilitator and system transformer.

If you work with organizations, you’ll want to be there. For new and experienced practitioners alike.

Partial Agenda: During this day, you will:

• Take an actual walk along a timeline detailing 13 billion years of the universe’s history;
• Hear the parable of "The Elephant and the Flea";
• Learn three principal organizing dynamics of all companies, institutions, and systems;
• Learn proven ways to intervene for maximum effect in any system;
• Engage in dialogue about the impact of this perspective on our work and our client organizations;
• Consider key choices facing our profession and humanity at this point in Earth’s life.

Our Presenter: Miriam MacGillis travels the world opening people’s eyes to the power of the universe’s own story as a framework for human endeavor. She is a Dominican Sister and a former art teacher and peace activist. Currently she directs farming operations and the ecological learning center at Genesis Farm, Blairstown, NJ. Long an admirer of the OD profession, Miriam is a brilliant interactive teacher and spellbinding story-teller whose perspective on systems will surprise you, challenge your assumptions on the role of OD, and "raise the bar" on your professional aspirations.

Cost: $80 for PRODN members; $95 for non-members. Includes lunch, breaks, and all materials. 

To learn more, contact Ralph Copleman: ralph@earthdreams.net; 609-895-1629, or any member of the Environmental Special Interest Group

*Special Interest Group Members: Janet Castellini, Ralph Copleman, Kim Eberbach, Gerry Kaufman, Corky Potter, David Secan, Amy Steffen