The author believes that effective communication is an essential factor in overcoming differences and creating an environment where people can come together to learn, work, or play. Communication on the surface seems a straightforward endeavour. In practice, it is fraught with a multitude of issues that are dependent on the parties involved, who convey and receive messages. In this paper, the author explores communication and learning using the notion of mental models or mental representations as well as integrative thinking and generative listening. With this understanding of mental models, integrative thinking and generative listening, she discusses what she thinks leaders in her department can do to create the environment for improved communication with students and staff.