Shefrin Dialogues: Leading With Compassion Amid Conflict and Violence

The Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace & Justice at St. Paul’s College, University of Manitoba presents:

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution

Deep human connection and providing service from a place of compassion is increasingly difficult in our complex and polarizing world. In our quest for peace and justice, is compassion simply a pollyannish illusion? Come, hear, and have a conversation with our panellists who have strived to bring compassion into their work in different ways. Hear their challenges and triumphs as they dared to lead with compassion in times of conflict and violence.

Bob Chrismas - Team Lead, Winnipeg Community Safety Team

Bob Chrismas Ph.D. served for over 40 years in various law-enforcement roles, including 34 years with the Winnipeg Police Service. He was awarded the 2017 Distinguished Dissertation Award for his groundbreaking research and publications on sex trafficking in Canada. In his new role with the Community Safety Team, Bob has drawn on all of his experience and education to build a team with a culture and vision founded in compassion for vulnerable people while improving public safety.

Dr. Shauna Labman - Executive Director, Global College and Associate Professor, University of Winnipeg

Shauna Labman is a legal scholar who writes and speaks extensively on refugee law, resettlement and private refugee sponsorship within a broader context of human rights and public international law. She focuses on the layered influences of law on public policy and government positioning. She has previously worked for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in New Delhi, the Canadian Embassy in Beijing, the Law Commission of Canada in Ottawa, the Workers Compensation Board of BC, and the Nunavut Court of Justice in Iqaluit.

Devon Clunis - Fmr Chief of Police, Winnipeg Police Service, Author and International Consultant

Devon immigrated from Jamaica to Winnipeg at age 11 in 1975. He faced significant cultural challenges at the start. With the help of key difference makers, at an early age, Devon determined he would become an agent of social change. Devon served 29 years in the Winnipeg Police Service, culminating in his historic tenure as Canada’s first Black Chief of Police from 2012 to 2016. Known for his professionalism, integrity, and innovative problem-solving, he made significant contributions to community safety and policing best practices across Canada and the United States.

Moderated by Dr. Melanie Soderstrom - Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution are generously supported by a gift from Dr. Hersh [BSc(Hons)/70] and Arna Shefrin.

Thursday, September 25, 2025 | Reception 6:30 pm | Event 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm | Fr. Jensen SJ Theatre (Room 100), St. Paul’s College

This event is free and open to the public - registration and a ticket are required.

Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace & Justice at St. Paul’s College | [email protected] | umanitoba.ca/mauro_institute

Host or Publisher Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace & Justice