Rita Marie Johnson, creator of the Connection Practice, taught it as a 40-hour intensive course for credit at the United Nations University for Peace, a graduate school for international leaders. It quickly became one of the most highly-rated courses by UPeace students. In addition, she has certified professionals at Stanford, Harvard and Minerva Universities as Connection Practice Coaches.

Rita Marie also introduced this innovative skill to rectors from thirty Latin American universities at INCAE (Instituto Centroamericano de Administración de Empresas), often referred to as the “Harvard of Latin America.” The reception was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the Practice’s broad appeal and effectiveness across diverse educational environments.

Connection Practice Trainers have introduced the Connection Practice in a variety of higher education institutions. In Texas, faculty members at Collin College experienced the Connection Practice firsthand. The feedback was unanimous—participants reported they felt better equipped to acknowledge their own feelings and needs. One professor noted, “The workshop helped me understand how to unpack students’ emotions and how to empathize,” underscoring the Practice’s potential to enhance student-faculty interactions.

The Connection Practice has also been integrated into credit-bearing courses at Edgewood College and Viterbo University in Wisconsin, as well as Park College in Missouri, further solidifying its place in higher education.