THE UNCENTER

The UnCenter FAQs

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Why are you called The UnCenter?

The name ‘The UnCenter’ reflects our commitment to rethinking and challenging traditional approaches to empathy and inclusivity. It signifies our dedication to moving away from centered, often narrow perspectives, and instead embracing a more holistic, diverse, and inclusive understanding of empathy. By ‘uncentering’ our approach and thinking, we aim to give voice to marginalized and often overlooked experiences, fostering a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of empathy that transcends conventional boundaries. This name encapsulates our mission to create a space where all perspectives are valued and where empathy is understood and practiced in its most expansive and inclusive form.

How is The UnCenter pronounced?

It is pronounced UHN-sen-ter. 😊

What does your tagline “A Center for Empathy without Borders mean?”

Our tagline, ‘A Center for Empathy without Borders,’ embodies our vision of creating spaces where empathy knows no limits or boundaries. It represents our commitment to understanding and connecting with a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. This tagline underscores our belief that empathy should extend beyond traditional social, cultural, and geographical divides, fostering a truly inclusive and global understanding of each other’s experiences. In essence, it’s about breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding and compassion in a world so often divided.

What is the significance of your logo?

Our logo is inspired by the geometrical, topological shape of the Möbius Strip, which is a continuous loop with no beginning or end, symbolizing unity and continuity and aligning with the notion of borderlessness. It represents a space where traditional boundaries (such as inside/outside, start/end) are non-existent, echoing the ethos of inclusivity, open-mindedness, and the limitless empathy and reach of The UnCentered.

What is empathy?

Empathy is the capacity to imagine, understand, and share the emotions and perspectives of others. It involves cognitive and emotional connection, a motivation to offer compassion and assistance, and a desire to alleviate suffering and enhance the well-being of others.

What is the purpose of the UnCenter: A Center without Borders?

The UnCenter is dedicated to fostering deeper understanding and compassion among individuals and to promote a more empathetic and inclusive community for all. We focus our efforts primarily in the domains of healthcare and education.

What are empathy labs?

Empathy Labs are interactive, immersive learning experiences that provide creative ways to explore and assume the perspectives of others. Their purpose is to cultivate empathy through greater insight into the lived experiences of others.

Who makes up the UnCenter’s Empathy Team?

Our Empathy Team is made up of an interdisciplinary group of faculty, students, and staff at Wilson College. Our faculty-student committee has representatives from the Health Humanities, Art & Design, Nursing, M.A. in Humanities, and Education programs. We also frequently consult with the Office of Justice, Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity (JEDI) at the College in the design of our labs.

Where IS the UnCenter?

Since our center is an uhn-center, and we are interested in de-centering and un-marginalizing. It is, in essence, wherever we are—the founders, organizers, and past and future empathy lab participants. Technically, our team members are located at Wilson College in Chambersburg, PA. We are also here, online! So, the question instead might be, where are you? 😊 Come join us for an empathy lab! Or contact us about an idea you have for leading one. We would love to hear from you.

How often are Empathy Labs held?

Currently, we design and host Empathy Labs twice a year. However, with continued support and funding, we hope to expand this schedule to offer more frequent labs and a broader range of experiences.

Who can participate in the Empathy Labs?

Our Empathy Labs are open to all Wilson College and Wilson College Online (WCOL) students, staff, faculty, administrators, as well as members of the larger Chambersburg community and beyond. Everyone can benefit from and contribute to these enriching experiences.

How does the UnCenter ensure accessibility and ADA compliance in its Empathy Labs?

Accessibility is at the forefront of our thinking with the conception and design of all of our labs. We are committed to ensuring that all participants can fully engage with our Empathy Labs. Our installations and activities are designed to be ADA compliant, and we continually review and adapt our offerings based on feedback and evolving best practices. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact us in advance so we can provide you with necessary accommodations.

How can I support or contribute to the UnCenter?

We welcome support in various forms, from volunteering to financial sponsorship of labs. Your support helps us continue our work, expand our offerings, and reach a broader audience. For information on how you can contribute, please visit our Ways to Give page for ideas (still in progress 😊) or contact our center directly by clicking the “Get in touch” button at the bottom of this page.

Can external organizations collaborate with the UnCenter?

Absolutely! We are eager to collaborate and are always open to working with organizations that align with our mission. If you represent an organization interested in collaboration, please reach out to our Empathy Team by clicking the “Get in touch” button below.

How are the topics or themes for each Empathy Lab chosen?

We select themes based on current social, cultural, or global issues, as well as ideas and suggestions that arise in conversation with members of the Wilson community. Our goal is to address diverse experiences and challenges to ensure a wide-reaching impact.

Are there any costs associated with participating in an Empathy Lab?

No. Our Empathy Labs are free for everyone.

How can I provide feedback or share my experience after attending an Empathy Lab?

We value feedback and encourage participants to share their experiences. After attending a lab, you will be given a QR code that gives you access to a feedback form. You can also always reach out to our team directly by clicking the “Get in touch!” button at the bottom of this page.

How does the UnCenter ensure a safe and inclusive environment during the labs?

Ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment is paramount. Our facilitators are trained to guide discussions and activities sensitively, and we have guidelines in place to ensure respectful interactions among participants. While some of our labs are group experiences, some are uniquely designed as installations that offer a private, immersive experience in which participants engage individually with content, allowing for deep personal reflection and connection. Recognizing the profound impact of our immersive installations, we provide information on-site about how to contact support resources. Should participants feel the need to discuss or process their experiences, guidance and assistance are readily available.

Have an idea for an empathy lab?