Restorative Practices, Freedom of Expression, and Executive Leadership: An Innovative Application of Restorative Practices in Academic Medicine

Introduction: Although proponents suggest that restorative practices (RP) could foster community in academic medicine, few published reports describe their application. Method: Our executive leaders partnered with RP and Freedom of Expression (FOE) teams to apply RP circles to challenges related to U.S. government Executive Actions (EAs). Follow-up surveys assessed RP-FOE linkage. Results: In early 2025, 152 individuals participated in 31 circles. In post-circle surveys, participants (>90%) felt able to express opinions and understand others’ perspectives. EA-related themes generated institution-wide strategies, including town halls and community-engagement toolkits. Conclusions: RP circles allowed participants to speak freely, understand others, and provide leadership feedback.