Master Communicating with Tact and Diplomacy

Build the judgment and confidence to communicate clearly, address difficult issues, and preserve productive relationships. Lincoln Leadership Institute helps leaders practice thoughtful dialogue, active listening, conflict resolution, and principled negotiation through immersive, facilitator-led learning. Whether you lead a team, influence stakeholders, or navigate high-pressure conversations, gain practical frameworks for speaking with respect, clarity, and purpose when the stakes are high.

Leader facilitating a respectful team discussion

Our Communication and Diplomacy Services

Practical leadership programs that build clarity, trust, negotiation skill, and collaborative problem-solving.

Negotiation Workshop

Practice negotiation techniques through interactive exercises informed by historic negotiations and modern best practices. Participants strengthen professional communication, conflict resolution, collaborative problem-solving, and the ability to pursue mutually beneficial outcomes.

Private Team Programs

Create a customized learning experience for teams of 8 to 20 participants. Faculty tailor case studies, exercises, and communication challenges to your organization’s values, priorities, and real business environment.

Enterprise Partnerships

Develop communication capability across your organization through a multi-year, cohort-based leadership engagement. Customized content, executive coaching, and dedicated account support help reinforce lasting leadership growth at scale.

Practical Communication Skills

Turn Difficult Conversations Into Productive Progress

Tact and diplomacy are not about avoiding hard truths—they are about delivering them in ways people can hear and act on. Lincoln Leadership Institute equips leaders to listen for underlying concerns, communicate with clarity, manage conflict constructively, and seek shared ground. Through practical exercises and historically grounded leadership lessons, participants build the composure and judgment needed to influence others while protecting trust, accountability, and forward momentum.

Two leaders having a constructive conversation
The LLI Difference

Why Choose Lincoln Leadership Institute?

Develop communication skills through memorable experiences led by accomplished leadership practitioners.

Proven Experience

More than 25 years of experiential leadership development informs practical, high-stakes communication learning.

Distinctive Faculty

Historians, executives, military leaders, and communication experts bring varied perspectives to every learning experience.

Practical Application

Participants leave with usable frameworks for listening, conflict resolution, influence, and principled decision-making.

Custom Design

Private and enterprise programs align exercises with your organization’s communication challenges, values, and strategic priorities.

Meet Our Leadership Faculty

Experienced educators who make leadership lessons practical and memorable.

Portrait of Steven B. Wiley, President of Lincoln Leadership Institute

Steven B. Wiley

President, Lincoln Leadership Institute

Steven B. Wiley serves as President of the Lincoln Leadership Institute, where he has spent over 25 years pioneering experiential leadership development at America's most iconic historic battlefields. Recognized by ABC News as 'the best speaker you've never heard of,' Steven is celebrated for his dynamic, transformative presentations that bring timeless leadership principles to life for executives and high-potential leaders. Under his leadership, the Institute has served more than 25,000 Fortune 1000 and public sector clients and transformed over 40,000 leaders worldwide. Steven's approach combines historical immersion with practical, immediately applicable frameworks, equipping modern organizations to perform and produce in rapidly changing, high-stakes environments.

Portrait of Dr. Jared Peatman, Director of Curriculum at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dr. Jared Peatman

Director of Curriculum

Dr. Jared Peatman serves as Director of Curriculum at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, where he designs and delivers leadership development experiences across a wide range of historic sites. A graduate of Gettysburg College, he holds a master's degree from Virginia Tech and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. Dr. Peatman is the author of 'The Long Shadow of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address' (2013) and was honored as a 2009 OAH/Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission Doctoral Fellow, receiving the 2012 Hay-Nicolay Dissertation Prize. He holds a Certificate of Achievement in Experiential Education from the National Society for Experience Education and is certified to deliver EQ-i2.0 and EQ360 Emotional Intelligence Assessments, bringing rigorous academic depth and practical expertise to every program.

Portrait of Ron Bailey, Director of Development at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Ron Bailey

Director of Development

Ron Bailey serves as Director of Development at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing a distinguished background in corporate leadership and business strategy to the organization. A graduate of Amherst College and a former IBM executive, Ron brings decades of experience in strategic planning, executive management, and business development to support the Institute's growth and client partnerships. His deep corporate expertise allows him to align the Institute's leadership programs with the real-world challenges facing Fortune 1000 companies and public sector organizations. Ron's commitment to delivering measurable value ensures that every client engagement is thoughtfully designed to achieve meaningful and lasting results.

Portrait of Dr. Judy Morley, Faculty Historian and Leadership Expert at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dr. Judy Morley

Faculty – Historian & Leadership Expert

Dr. Judy Morley is a distinguished faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, serving as a Historian and Leadership Expert. Holding a Ph.D. in the History of the American West, she is an accomplished author, entrepreneur, and speaker who bridges the gap between historical leadership lessons and contemporary organizational challenges. Dr. Morley's engaging teaching style and deep historical expertise allow her to draw powerful, practical insights from the past and translate them into actionable frameworks for today's business leaders. Her published works on American Western history and leadership further establish her as a leading voice in experiential and values-based leadership development.

Portrait of Dr. Judith Glassick, Research and Design Specialist at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dr. Judith Glassick

Research and Design Specialist

Dr. Judith Glassick serves as Research and Design Specialist at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, where she applies rigorous academic methodology to the development of evidence-based leadership curricula. She holds degrees from the University of Richmond and Catholic University, and earned her doctorate from the University of Southern California. Dr. Glassick specializes in designing research-grounded leadership development programs and conducting studies on leadership effectiveness, ensuring that the Institute's offerings are both academically credible and practically impactful. Her work is central to maintaining the high standard of curriculum quality that has earned the Lincoln Leadership Institute recognition from major media outlets and academic partners alike.

Portrait of Dennis Owens, Faculty Political Reporter and Communication Expert at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dennis Owens

Faculty – Political Reporter & Communication Expert

Dennis Owens is a faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing more than 30 years of television broadcast journalism experience and 15 Emmy Awards to the organization. As a distinguished political reporter and communication expert, Dennis provides leaders with unique, real-world insights into political communication, media relations, and crisis communication strategies. His extensive on-air career has given him an unparalleled understanding of how leaders communicate under pressure, make decisions in the public eye, and build credibility with diverse audiences. Dennis's expertise adds a compelling and practical dimension to the Institute's leadership programs, helping participants sharpen their communication and influence skills.

Portrait of General James Anderson, Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

General James Anderson

General (Faculty)

General James Anderson is a distinguished faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, contributing senior military leadership and strategic expertise to the organization's programs. With a career defined by principled decision-making, long-term strategic vision, and mission-focused leadership, General Anderson brings the highest level of military leadership experience to corporate and government leaders. His teachings emphasize the importance of adapting to rapidly changing circumstances while maintaining clarity of purpose and integrity. General Anderson's insights are particularly valuable for leaders navigating complex organizational environments where high-stakes decisions must be made under pressure and uncertainty.

Portrait of Admiral Scott Moore, Retired Navy Rear Admiral and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Admiral Scott Moore

Admiral (Retired) – Faculty

Admiral Scott Moore is a retired Navy Rear Admiral and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing elite military leadership expertise to the organization's immersive programs. A graduate of the Air Academy Class of 1978, Admiral Moore dedicated over 30 years to Naval Special Warfare, accumulating an extraordinary depth of experience in high-stakes leadership, strategic operations, and team performance. His distinguished career in special operations provides participants with powerful, firsthand insights into leading under extreme pressure, building cohesive teams, and developing the decisiveness required of exceptional leaders. Admiral Moore's contributions to the Institute help bridge the gap between elite military leadership and modern organizational excellence.

Portrait of Dave Cooper, Command Master Chief and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dave Cooper

Command Master Chief – Faculty

Dave Cooper is a faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute and a US Navy SEAL since 1988, bringing decades of elite special operations leadership experience to the organization's programs. His career in Naval Special Warfare has equipped him with a profound understanding of high-performance teamwork, leadership under extreme adversity, and the mental and moral fortitude required to lead in life-or-death situations. Dave translates these hard-won lessons into powerful, actionable insights for corporate and government leaders, helping them build the resilience, courage, and decisive leadership capabilities needed to thrive in demanding environments. His presence on faculty reflects the Institute's commitment to world-class, battle-tested instruction.

Portrait of Colonel Ret. Mark Erwin, Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Colonel (Ret.) Mark Erwin

Colonel (Retired) – Faculty

Colonel (Ret.) Mark Erwin is a faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute with over 25 years of distinguished service in the US Army. Having served as Chief of Staff of US Army Special Operations Command, Colonel Erwin brings exceptional expertise in military leadership, strategic operations, and organizational management to the Institute's programs. His career at the highest levels of special operations leadership gives him unique insights into building high-performing teams, executing complex missions, and developing leaders who excel under pressure. Colonel Erwin's experience translates directly into practical frameworks that help corporate and government leaders navigate strategic challenges and drive results in their organizations.

Portrait of Joseph E. Mieczkowski, Licensed Battlefield Guide and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Joseph E. Mieczkowski

Licensed Battlefield Guide – Faculty

Joseph E. Mieczkowski is a Licensed Battlefield Guide and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, combining decades of federal executive experience with deep historical knowledge of the Gettysburg battlefield and the Civil War era. A graduate of Salem College and Penn State University, Joseph brings a rare combination of academic rigor, practical leadership insight, and authoritative historical expertise to the Institute's programs. As a retired federal executive, he understands firsthand the challenges of leading large organizations through change and uncertainty. His battlefield tours and leadership facilitation create an immersive, compelling experience that connects historical decisions to the leadership challenges participants face in their own organizations.

Portrait of Fran Feyock, Licensed Battlefield Guide and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Fran Feyock

Licensed Battlefield Guide – Faculty

Fran Feyock is a Licensed Battlefield Guide and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing a distinctive combination of healthcare executive leadership and deep historical knowledge to the organization's programs. A retired Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (C.R.N.A.) and former Executive Director of a Surgical Service Line, Fran has spent her career leading high-stakes teams in demanding medical environments. Her experience managing critical care and surgical operations provides her with powerful, real-world perspectives on decisive leadership, team cohesion, and performance under pressure. As a Licensed Battlefield Guide, Fran connects the leadership lessons of historic battlefields to the challenges faced by leaders across industries.

Portrait of Brad Alge, Leadership Expert and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Brad Alge

Leadership Expert – Faculty

Brad Alge is a Leadership Expert and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing extensive experience in executive coaching, team development, and organizational consulting to the organization's programs. His work spans a broad range of industries and organizational contexts, equipping him to address the unique leadership challenges that corporate leaders encounter at every level. Brad's approach emphasizes practical skill-building, self-awareness, and the development of high-performing teams that can sustain results over time. His contributions to the Institute's programs help participants translate the powerful lessons of historic battlefields into concrete leadership strategies they can apply immediately within their own organizations.

Portrait of Kelly Garret, Leadership Development Specialist and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Kelly Garret

Leadership Development Specialist – Faculty

Kelly Garret is a Leadership Development Specialist and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, bringing deep expertise in organizational psychology, executive coaching, and team dynamics to the Institute's programs. His background equips him to help leaders develop greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the interpersonal skills essential for effective leadership in complex organizations. Kelly's emphasis on understanding human behavior and motivation provides participants with a nuanced perspective on how to inspire, influence, and develop the people around them. His contributions enhance the Lincoln Leadership Institute's holistic approach to leadership development, ensuring participants leave with both strategic insights and the personal growth tools needed to lead with confidence.

Portrait of Jari Villanueva, Military Heritage Expert and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Jari Villanueva

Military Heritage Expert – Faculty

Jari Villanueva is a Military Heritage Expert and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, specializing in ceremonial military traditions and American military history. His deep knowledge of military heritage and its symbolic significance enriches the Institute's battlefield-based leadership experiences, offering participants a profound appreciation for the sacrifices and leadership legacies that shaped American history. Jari's expertise brings a distinctive and meaningful dimension to the Institute's programs, connecting the ceremonial and cultural traditions of military service to the broader themes of courage, honor, and values-based leadership. His contributions help participants develop a deeper respect for the leadership principles embedded in America's military heritage.

Portrait of Bob Prosperi, Leadership Instructor and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Bob Prosperi

Leadership Instructor – Faculty

Bob Prosperi is a Leadership Instructor and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, contributing practical leadership expertise to the organization's immersive, battlefield-based learning experiences. With hands-on experience facilitating leadership development in challenging, high-engagement environments, Bob excels at guiding participants through the Institute's experiential programs and helping them draw meaningful, actionable insights from historic battlefields. His approachable and engaging facilitation style creates an environment where leaders at all levels feel challenged and inspired to grow. Bob's commitment to experiential learning and practical application makes him a valued member of the Institute's faculty team, dedicated to delivering transformative outcomes for every participant.

Portrait of Dave Williams, Distinguished Professor and Faculty at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Dave Williams

Distinguished Professor – Faculty

Dave Williams is a Distinguished Professor and faculty member at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, serving as a professor at the Schar School of Government and Policy at George Mason University. His academic expertise in government, public policy, and institutional leadership brings a rigorous and research-informed perspective to the Institute's programs. Dave's deep understanding of how policy decisions shape organizations and communities provides participants with valuable context for navigating the intersection of leadership, governance, and public accountability. His contributions to the Lincoln Leadership Institute enrich its curriculum with scholarly depth, helping leaders in both the public and private sectors develop a more sophisticated understanding of the broader forces that shape organizational performance.

Portrait of Scott Avellino Jr., Client Relationship and Event Coordinator at Lincoln Leadership Institute

Scott Avellino Jr.

Client Relationship & Event Coordinator

Scott Avellino Jr. serves as Client Relationship and Event Coordinator at the Lincoln Leadership Institute, where he helps clients and teams plan, coordinate, and execute leadership programs from start to finish. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to delivering seamless program experiences ensure that every participant can focus fully on the transformative learning the Institute provides. A Civil War Living Historian since 2010, Scott brings authentic historical passion to his work, literally bringing history to life on the battlefield. His unique combination of event management expertise and deep personal connection to Civil War history makes him an invaluable member of the Institute's team and a genuine asset to every program he supports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a diplomatic communication style?

A diplomatic communication style is clear, respectful, and intentional. It balances honesty with awareness of how words, tone, timing, and context may affect others. Diplomatic communicators listen before responding, acknowledge differing perspectives, frame concerns around shared goals, and offer constructive paths forward. The aim is not to avoid disagreement; it is to handle disagreement in a way that preserves trust and makes productive action possible.

What does it mean to speak with diplomacy?

Who can benefit from communication and diplomacy training?

What skills are covered in a tact and diplomacy program?

How is the High-Impact Negotiations Workshop delivered?

Can Lincoln Leadership Institute customize communication training for our team?

Are virtual communication programs available?

How do we plan a program or discuss payment options?

Ready for More Productive Conversations?

Speak with our team about a leadership experience for your organization.

Recognized Leadership Excellence

Awards and Recognition

Purdue University Global partnership credential

Purdue University Global Partnership

Accredited leadership certificate program partnership

USA TODAY recognition

USA TODAY Recognition

Praised for powerful performance training

Experiential education certificate credential

Experiential Education Certificate

Faculty credential in experiential education

Start a More Effective Conversation

Tell us about your leadership goals, audience, and preferred format. Our team can help identify a program that supports stronger communication, collaboration, and decision-making.

Contact Us Today

For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at (717) 338-9971. You can also send us a quick email at info@gettysburgleadership.com.