Workshop series: From bystanders to upstanders, featuring the Upstander Ally bot

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Join the movement to create safer, healthier, and thriving work environments

Have you ever witnessed or experienced workplace bullying? You’re not alone—and it’s more common than you might think. Unlike harassment, workplace bullying often flies under the radar, but its effects are just as serious. It can impact mental and physical health, decrease morale, and damage the overall health of an organization.

In response to the U.S. Surgeon General’s call to prioritize workplace mental health and well-being, Upstander Workshops feature the Upstander Ally bot, an AI-powered tool that supports individuals who witness or experience bullying, co-created by Dr. Bea Rodriguez-Fransen of ASU Next Lab and Brittany Wheeler, an ASU alumna with expertise in researching workplace bullying.

A smiling, friendly robot with a heart

What to Expect from the Workshop Series:

  • Learn the Signs: Understand what workplace bullying looks like in everyday interactions—and how it differs from conflict or harassment—through the lens of the latest U.S.-based research.
  • Meet Upstander Ally GPT: Explore an AI-powered tool created to support individuals who witness or experience bullying. This tool offers strategies, scripts, and roleplay practice to help you step in safely and effectively.
  • Reflect and Connect: Engage in guided breakout sessions and complete the Short Negative Acts Questionnaire Survey. These activities provide space for confidential reflection on what you have witnessed in the workplace, and to engage in peer-to-peer learning in a supportive environment.
  • Get Involved: Learn how you can become part of ASU’s Upstander Program, a community of faculty, staff, and students committed to fostering accountability, respect, and inclusive excellence across campus and beyond.

These upcoming workshops are hosted by the Office of Inclusive Excellence and College of Health Solutions, in collaboration with ASU Next Lab.

📅 Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025
🕒 Time: 12pm-1pm
📍 Location: 850 PBC, ASU Phoenix Downtown Campus; Zoom
🔗 Registration: Invite Only

These upcoming workshops are hosted by the Office of Inclusive Excellence and College of Health Solutions:

📅 Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
🕒 Time: 10am-11:15am
📍 Location: Zoom
🔗 Registration: Invite Only

Interested in collaborating with us to host Upstander Workshops? Contact us here.