What is a wicked bridge?
Dr. Kyle Whyte, a professor at Michigan State University, coined the phrase “wicked problems” to identify issues so complex they are difficult to define, much less solve. In many cases, naming the issue can create conflict in itself – think poverty, global warming, racism or workplace discrimination.
A wicked bridge, therefore, can span multiple issues and disparate groups.
With a varied and expansive wealth of experience, Wicked Bridges brings people together to intentionally solve wicked problems, whether in the community, a corporate setting or the nonprofit sector. We help clients understand the intersectionality of racism, sexism, classism, and/or poverty and view issues from multiple lenses. Our work seeks to end the guilt/blame dichotomy and helps to create new solutions and opportunities based on dignity, and compassionate and engaged listening.
About Will Osmun
Will Osmun, founder of Wicked Bridges, has a personal passion for organizational change and social justice, as well as years of professional corporate and nonprofit experience. Since 2011 he has provided guidance and solutions to CEOs, executives, and community organizations on issues of bias, retention, advancement, inclusion, and collaboration.
Will is a certified state mediator and an Immunity to Change coach. Through coaching, speaking engagements, group facilitation, training, and panel discussions, Will takes clients through a meaningful process of exploration and conflict resolution. He is a facilitator of compassionate listening and a community connector who specializes in building awareness of marginalized communities and systems-based problem solving.
Currently in a leadership role at the Grand Rapids Urban League, Will previously served as executive director of The SOURCE, a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based nonprofit and as the State Director for UnitedHealthCare’s myCommunity Connect program in Michigan. Prior to that, he spent 30 years working in for-profit industries, where he gained experience in manufacturing, management roles, and as a national sales and marketing director. Will earned a Masters of Management from Aquinas College and a Masters of Science in Supply Chain Logistics from Michigan State University and a Masters of Art in Leadership and Change from Antioch University. He is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Grand Rapids and a Marano Fellow of the Aspen Institutes Sector Skills Academy 2011. Will is currently finalizing his dissertation for a PhD in Leadership and Change from Antioch University.
A lifelong advocate for social justice, Will is active in addressing issues on a local, state and national level. He co-founded Stop the Violence, an inner city conflict resolution/summer basketball league for youth, and the Greater Grand Rapids Racial Equity Network. He also served on the boards of Access of West Michigan and Kids’ Food Basket. Will has presented nationally on issues of race, privilege, equity, poverty, employment, community building, collaboration and rethinking the nonprofit agenda.