Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi

Joi Patterson and Amy Vujaklija discuss the importance of stakeholder involvement in accreditation, emphasizing that accreditation is a team effort involving both internal and external partners. They highlight the necessity of engaging students, faculty, staff, administrators, community members, and alumni. Joi compares stakeholder identification to planning a wedding, stressing the importance of including all relevant parties. They also discuss the triangulation process in accreditation, which involves self-study reports, assessments, and stakeholder feedback. Joi advises creating an advisory board and maintaining mutualistic relationships to ensure ongoing stakeholder involvement and successful accreditation.

Amy Vujaklija and Joi Patterson discuss the complexities of accreditation, emphasizing the importance of assessment and evidence. They highlight the need for clear rubrics, measurable language, and effective feedback loops to ensure continuous improvement. The conversation covers the challenges of data collection and utilization, stressing the importance of actionable data rather than mere accumulation. They also discuss the significance of benchmarks, the role of stakeholders, and the necessity of organized systems to manage data and avoid burnout. The segment concludes with a focus on the impact of accreditation on the broader educational ecosystem.

Joi Patterson and Amy Vujaklija discuss the importance of shared institutional responsibility in accreditation processes, emphasizing that accreditation should not be treated as a last-minute task. They highlight common mistakes, such as isolating individuals and rushing documents, which lead to inefficiencies and stress. They advocate for ongoing, collaborative preparation, including timelines, reflection, and data analysis. They stress the need for systems that ensure continuity, even with leadership changes, and the importance of faculty and staff buy-in. They also discuss the value of transparency, continuous improvement, and the use of tools like Watermark to maintain audit readiness and support student success.

Amy Vujaklija and Joi Patterson discuss the importance and challenges of accreditation in higher education. They emphasize that accreditation ensures educational quality, public trust, and equity. Amy shares her anxiety about accreditation, while Joi highlights the emotional and logistical burdens it imposes. They note that accreditation involves continuous improvement, transparency, and compliance with state and national standards. Despite its costs and bureaucracy, accreditation is crucial for maintaining program relevance, student outcomes, and institutional reputation. They also discuss the role of specialized accreditation in specific fields and the importance of aligning institutional missions with accreditation standards.

The podcast episode honors Dr. Cheryl Green, who passed away on April 23, 2025, after serving as President of Governor State University for four years. Dr. Green, a passionate educator with over 30 years of experience, received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Commitment in Education Award in 2023 and the Women in Excellence in Education Award in 2024. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of education in building character and changing history, urging educators to stay committed despite challenges. She highlighted the profound impact educators have on students' lives and called for a system where educators are valued and supported.

In this episode, we talk to Laurie Hendrickson, a former middle school teacher and current educator. Hendrickson discusses the importance of student participation and technology integration in education. She emphasizes the need for technology to be used within the curriculum with a specific purpose, such as creating digital stories that enhance learning. Hendrickson shares her experience with digital storytelling, media literacy, and the challenges and benefits of remote learning. She also highlights the significance of building online learning communities and the use of tools like Google Forms and Padlet for student engagement. Hendrickson recommends resources like Create to Learn by Renee Hobbs and The Google Infused Classroom by Holly Clark and Tanya Avra for educators.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Marshaunda Dixon, director of learning initiatives for Renaissance Christian Academy. We discuss the teacher shortage and lack of diversity in education, particularly among African American teachers. We highlight that while students of color are expected to make up 56% of the student population by 2024, only 82% of public school teachers are white. Dixon shares her journey from corporate America to teaching, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and exposing students to diverse career paths. She discusses the challenges faced by teachers, including the need for support and mental health resources, and the significance of teaching as a calling rather than just a profession.

In this episode, we talk to Gynger Garcia, a former Chicago Public School teacher, who works as a community education liaison at Breakthrough Urban Ministries. She discusses the importance of community-minded education and the benefits of partnerships between universities and community organizations. Breakthrough's programs, including after-school support and a community fresh market, are designed to meet local needs. Garcia emphasizes the value of early engagement in teacher preparation programs, mentorship, and cultural consciousness. She highlights the high burnout rate in teaching, noting that 44% of teachers last less than five years. Breakthrough's partnership with an Illinois university aims to better prepare teachers for urban education.

Nichelle Cook, educator, licensed attorney, social entrepreneur and neurodiversity disability advocate, discusses the importance of embracing neurodiversity and the challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities. She highlights that 12% of employees and 11% of students have developmental disabilities, emphasizing the need for better communication and support. Nichelle shares her personal journey, detailing her struggles with undiagnosed ADHD, anxiety, and major depressive disorder. She explains the concept of neurodiversity, coined by sociologist Judy Singer, and the spectrum of autism. Nichelle also discusses the importance of proper accommodations in education and the workplace, advocating for self-advocacy and understanding the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.

In this episode, Dr. Amy Vujaklija and Dr. Joi Patterson discuss leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of student success and diversity, equity, and inclusion. We interview Dr. Angela Diggs, a seasoned educational leader, about her journey from a peer professional to a Director of Special Services. Dr. Diggs highlights the challenges of balancing multiple stakeholders' needs while maintaining a student-centered approach. She stresses the importance of social emotional intelligence, clear communication, and strategic delegation. The conversation also touches on the impact of bad leadership, the pressures on administrators, and the necessity of adapting to new roles with humility and openness.

Dr. Debbie James interviews Dr. Amy Vujaklija and Dr. Joi Patterson, co-hosts of the "Teaching and Leading" podcast at Governors State University. We discuss our journey from hallway conversations to a podcast during the pandemic. We highlight the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and the value of our podcast in elevating educator voices. Dr. Dr. James asks us to share our personal experiences, including career changes and the impact of their podcast on their professional growth. We also discuss their initiative to address teacher shortages by creating a pipeline of diverse educators through a mentoring program. The podcast aims to bring attention to GovState, elevate the profession, and provide solutions to educational challenges.

Dr. Sandy Womack, an Ohio educator and administrator, discusses his passion for transforming urban schools and the importance of assessing performance beyond persistence rates. He emphasizes the need for data-driven approaches, community engagement, and creating a supportive environment for teachers. Womack highlights successful programs like the Real League and the New York Civic Leadership Institute, which fostered student advocacy and academic improvement. He stresses the importance of policy changes to attract and retain teachers, including better pay, housing support, and student loan debt relief. Womack also underscores the role of educator preparation programs in equipping future teachers with practical skills and a sense of mission.

Dr. Cheryl Green, President of Governor State University, discusses her leadership journey. Despite challenges like the pandemic and the murder of George Floyd, she emphasizes the importance of higher education and the need for African American females to remain connected to academia. Green shares four pieces of career advice, including the value of self-analysis, generating revenue, and broadening expertise. She underscores the significance of these lessons in her professional growth and success.

Mayor Joe Woods discusses his dual passions for poetry and public service, highlighting his role as the 12th mayor and second African American mayor of Park Forest. He emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of lifelong learning. Woods also addresses the challenges of diversity and equity, offering a poem that critiques the superficiality of diversity without inclusion and equity.

Dr. Phyllis West, Director of Social Justice Initiative at Governor State University, discusses the evolution of respectability politics and the stigmatization associated with African American hair. She recounts her journey from being a high school cosmetology major to an academic, highlighting the societal pressures and personal challenges she faced with her hair choices.

Dr. Rashidah Muhammad, a professor at Governor State University, discusses her inspirational journey in academia, highlighting her admiration for influential Black figures like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison. Dr. Muhammad credits Dr. Geneva Smitherman, her "literary mother," for providing a pivotal motivational push during her studies. Dr. Muhammad emphasizes the importance of balancing life and work, a lesson she continues to pass on to her own children.

Dr. Nicole Bing, an associate professor and speech-language pathologist at Governor State University, is featured on a special Black History Project episode. She shares her journey, highlighting the impact of mentors like Dr. Noma Anderson and Dr. Yvette Hyter. Bing's story underscores the importance of mentorship in the academic and professional lives of Black leaders, leading to her success in teaching, research, and international service learning.

Dr. Cheryl Green, the sixth president of Governor State University, discusses her journey and vision for the institution. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in leadership, noting that only 30% of university presidents are female and 5% are women of color. Green highlights her focus on engagement, transparency, and community relations, and her commitment to serving all seven stakeholder groups. She also discusses the challenges of crisis management and the 24/7 nature of the role. Green has rebranded GSU as the "jewel of the Southland" by enhancing academic programs, community engagement, and alumni relations, and measures success through morale, revenue, growth, and student experience.

Stephanie Krauss, an educator and mom, shares her personal journey from high school dropout to college graduate. She discusses her book Making It,"which aims to prepare students for an uncertain future by focusing on four key "currencies": competencies, credentials, connections, and cash. Krauss emphasizes the need to modernize education, moving beyond just college and career readiness to fostering long, livable lives. She shares her work in Virginia, where she helped shift the focus from over-testing to assessing for learning. Krauss also discusses plans for future projects, including a book for parents on raising kids for the future. The episode highlights the importance of equipping students with the skills and resources to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Shannon Swilley, an experienced educator and advocate for culturally responsive teaching, discusses the importance of understanding students' cultural backgrounds to enhance learning. He emphasizes that teaching is a complex craft requiring empathy, social intelligence, and continuous growth. Swilley's research highlights that while teachers acknowledge the benefits of culturally responsive practices, they often harbor reservations. He stresses the need for educators to be vulnerable and to focus on the whole child, not just content. Swilley also discusses the challenges in implementing these practices and the importance of professional development tailored to individual needs.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Giesela Grumbach, a social worker and educator. Dr. Grumbach discusses the evolving role of school social workers, emphasizing their importance in providing counseling, home visits, and advocacy. She highlights the significance of social-emotional learning (SEL) standards and the multi-tiered system of support, which includes tier one (prevention), tier two (small group interventions), and tier three (intensive support). Dr. Grumbach stresses the need for teachers to be attuned to students' emotional states and to listen with a "third ear" to understand nuanced meanings. She also addresses disparities in education and the importance of closing the loop with students, especially during remote learning.

Dr. Amy Vujaklija and Dr. Joi Patterson reflect on their podcast's journey, which began during the COVID-19 lockdown in May 2020. We have released a number of episodes, discussing diverse topics through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We highlight the importance of being reflective practitioners, emphasizing self-awareness and impact. Notable guests include psychologists, counselors, and educators, who share their experiences and solutions. We discuss the impact of our conversations on educators and the broader community, noting the importance of addressing tough topics and providing practical strategies. We encourage listener engagement and plan to cover topics like bullying and homework balance in future episodes.

Dr. Sara Schnoor discusses her research on middle school leaders' perceptions of restorative justice practices. She emphasizes the importance of community and individual accountability in restorative justice, highlighting its benefits in education, healthcare, and other fields. Dr. Schnoor shares her journey from teaching to leadership, focusing on the dynamic growth of middle school students and the need for safe, inclusive environments. She details challenges in implementing restorative justice, such as breaking misperceptions and securing resources. Dr. Schnoor advocates for formalizing restorative justice in school policies and securing additional funding to support its effectiveness.

In this episode, Dr. Christopher Dignam, a former K-12 educator and current university professor, discusses his journey in integrating art and science in teaching methodologies. He emphasizes the importance of portraiture, a framework that blends ethnography, phenomenology, and narration, to create a holistic learning experience. Dr. Dignam shares his experiences as a high school principal, where he implemented interdisciplinary courses and parental involvement to enhance student engagement and reduce stress. He highlights the success of his AP colloquium, which increased AP test administrations from 200 to over 5,000. Dr. Dignam stresses the need for professional development focused on thematic units and parental involvement to foster a love of learning.

In this episode, we discuss the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan and its implementation in schools. Colleen Gjataj, Director of Literacy Pathways at Elmhurst 205 Public Schools, highlights the challenges of improving literacy among third graders, noting that 30% cannot read. She emphasizes the need for high-quality instructional materials and professional development for teachers. Despite resource constraints, open-source materials and virtual professional learning opportunities are available. The conversation also touches on the importance of aligning curriculum, materials, and practices to support equitable outcomes for all students.

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of middle school with Jennifer Stiglic, an eighth-grade English teacher and author of the young adult novel Tisity. Jennifer shares her career transition from public relations to education, driven by a desire to make a positive impact. Tisity explores themes of authenticity and resilience among teenagers, drawing from Jennifer's experiences and her belief in the importance of recognizing students' unique strengths. The conversation highlights the value of career changers in education and the significance of teachers sharing their personal stories to inspire students.

In this episode, we talk to Kim Tate and Kellen Syrock, key contributors to the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, who emphasize the importance of evidence-based literacy practices. The plan, which includes teacher preparation, professional development, and district leadership, aims to improve literacy by focusing on effective instructional strategies rather than mandating specific curricula. The hosts and guests highlight the need for continuous teacher learning, local autonomy, and the potential for the plan to enhance student outcomes and teacher retention.Action ItemsEnsure teacher preparation programs incorporate the evidence-based practices and guidance outlined in the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan into their curriculum.Empower teachers to continuously learn and refine their literacy instruction practices based on the plan's recommendations.Implement the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan at the district level by reviewing current practices, identifying areas for improvement, and developing a plan to adopt the recommended evidence-based strategies.

In this episode, we talk to Nick Pezzuto, a career changer with 19 years in education. Mr. Pezzuto shares his journey from the restaurant industry to teaching. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning into education, emphasizing the transferable skills from his previous career. Mr. Pezzuto highlights the importance of relationship-building, patience, and adaptability in teaching. He also addresses the financial adjustments, and the need for flexible programs to accommodate career changers. The conversation underscores the value of career changers in education, their unique perspectives, and the impact they can have on students' lives.Action ItemsExplore ways to make teacher preparation programs more accessible and appealing to career changers.Promote the benefits of career changers in the teaching profession and highlight successful transition stories.Provide more support and guidance to early career teachers, especially those transitioning from other fields, on the practical aspects of teaching.

In this episode, we talk to Kevin Kenealy, an English teacher and writer. He discusses his inspiration from a high school gym teacher to publishing his first book 20 Something at age 23. He balances teaching, writing, and family life by maintaining a strict routine. His latest book, Neighborhood Watch, explores themes of childhood innocence and adult restrictions. Kevin emphasizes the importance of being observant and drawing inspiration from real-life events. He advises aspiring writers to write freely and not be afraid to share their work. Kevin also mentions his upcoming novel, Crash and Burn, and his passion for LEGOs and baseball.Action ItemsConsider writing a book about the process of writing and include stories from working with students.Promote Kevin's blog where he writes about reading and writing.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Keisha Swaringam, Vice President of Sales at Sydney. Dr. Swaringam discusses her educational journey and the challenges faced by teachers. She highlights the importance of personalized professional development and the role of tools like SIBME, which uses video and AI to enhance teacher reflection and feedback. Dr. Swaringam emphasizes the need for administrators to support teachers by providing relevant, time-saving PD and fostering a culture of respect and autonomy. She also mentioned the impact of Taylor Swift's "Tortured Teacher Department" on teacher morale and the necessity of making teaching an attractive profession again.Action ItemsProvide customized, targeted professional development to help teachers grow in the areas that will make the biggest difference.Explore the use of video, AI, and a "co-pilot" tool to help teachers spend less time on administrative tasks and more time on what they love - being with students.Reach out to Keisha Swearingham to learn more about the "Tortured Teachers Department" and how it can help support and retain great educators.

The 2024 Educator Conference Panel discussed the importance of supportive administrators in building a distributive leadership system that invites leaders to decision-making. The panel, comprising diverse educators, shared their motivations for entering education, emphasizing personal connections, love for content, and a desire to help others. They highlighted the need for positive school culture, administrative support, and equitable opportunities for leadership. Metrics from a survey indicated that administrative support, conducive work environments, and positive culture are key retention factors. The panel also stressed the importance of recognizing and supporting teachers' growth and mental health to retain educators in the profession.Action ItemsLead an initiative through the Illinois P-20 network called "Keep Illinois Educators Engaged Professionally".Collaborate on creating "Mentally Healthy Schools" and discuss this further with interested panelists.

In this episode, we feature two remarkable students from Governor State University - Tasneem and Abrea. Both young women proudly embrace their Palestinian heritage and are using their education to drive meaningful change. Tasneem is a first-generation social work student who has overcome significant odds to pursue higher education. Abrea is a two-time graduate of Governor State University, currently pursuing a Master's in Counseling. Throughout the conversation, Tasneem and Abrea share the profound impact of their cultural heritage on their educational journeys, discussing the challenges they have faced and their unwavering determination to create a more compassionate and equitable world.

In this episode, Drs. Joi Patterson and Amy Vujaklija discuss the start of their 5th season of the "Teaching and Leading" podcast. They reflect on their past conversations about why educators leave the profession and why they stay, and how that has led them to focus this season on the theme of "leading where you are" as educators. The hosts emphasize the importance of developing leadership qualities and capitalizing on opportunities to lead, regardless of one's formal position. They also highlight the value of sharing knowledge and experiences through platforms like podcasting as a way of leading and making an impact.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Jarrett Neal, the Writing Center Coordinator at Governors State University, about LGBTQ Pride. Dr. Neal shares his experience with generational and differences in perceptions of the LGBTQ community. We discuss Safe Zone training to address and mitigate bias and marginalization. Dr. Neal describes the state and national movements that affect members of the LGBTQ community and advocates for people to be aware of policies. We close with the mission and vision of diversity, equity, and inclusion work and ways to support our the LGBTQ community.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Kerry Klima about educator burnout and wellness. She discusses her research on structures in place that promote educator retention and how we might move from revolutionary to evolutionary in redesigning work environments. We also discuss the responsibility of managers modeling healthy work habits and inviting formerly unheard voices to the conversation. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 2 Episode 10.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Charity McGee, a 7th grade math teacher who started an education career in spring of 2020. Ms. McGee describes her experience as a student and why she wants to create a safe space for learning for her own students. We also discuss what collaboration can look like and who Ms. McGee says motivates her to be her best self.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Jamell O'Neal, assistant principal and former 2nd grade teacher, about her purpose in education. Ms. O'Neal shares her passion for centering students in conversations about education. She discusses how she engages families, collaborates with colleagues, and seeks feedback in her growth as an educator and administrator. Ms. O'Neal tells us how much it means to hear from students who attribute success to what they learned in her second grade classroom.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Shannon Payne about her start as a substitute teacher and how it led her to being a school counselor. Ms. Payne discusses the passion ignited by working with students and how she establishes relationships with students, families, and colleagues through trust. Her primary reason for staying in education is the service to students.

In this episode, Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi talk about teacher retention. After discussing the causes of teachers leaving the profession in Part 1 and the sense of belonging in Part 2, we explore the ideal conditions for retaining teachers. We discuss the importance of positive conflict resolution and transparent communication. We also share some strategies for creating a positive school culture through acknowledgements, rewards, recognition, and growth. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 2 Episode 28

In this episode, Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi talk about teacher retention. After discussing the causes of teachers leaving the profession in Part 1, we look at what we can do to keep them, especially experienced teachers. We discuss the necessary sense of belonging in a school culture and how educators need to feel they matter as part of the school and as individuals. We also share our personal experiences with being developed professionally and the importance of being empowered with leadership and voice.

In this episode, Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi have a no-holds-barred conversation about teacher retention. We discuss the increase in teachers retiring or leaving the profession altogether, further impacting the crisis levels of teacher shortages across the nation. In Part 1 of this 3-part series on teacher retention, we use the Ultimate Guide to Teacher Retention by Education Elements and a survey by the National Education Association to guide our conversation about the reasons teachers leave the classroom. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 2 Episode 26.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Don Parker, a principal, author, and professional development provider. Dr. Parker discusses relationships and clear expectations as the starting points for turning around a school culture. He explains the framework of his new book, Be the Driving Force: Leading Your School on the Road to Equity, a practical guidebook for education leaders. Dr. Parker closes with some clear first steps that can be immediately implemented.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Pam Fenning about persistent discipline trends in K-12 schools. Dr. Fenning shares prominent research on implicit bias, discipline policies, and discipline disparities, particularly within the intersection of race and different abilities. Dr. Fenning provides examples from her own observations as a school psychologist and her work within educator preparation. We discuss strategies for monitoring our vulnerable decision points and the need for collaboration among school professionals when addressing students’ needs and behavior. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 3 Episode 15.Referenced in this podcast:Illinois Legislative Black Caucus - The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, founded in 1967, stands for the progression of the African-American community by promoting education, health and welfare, minority business enterprise, job creation, consumer education and criminal justice reform.Sylvia Rosenfield | UMD College of Education - Professor Emerita, School Psychology, Ph.D., University of WisconsinNadine Burke Harris | Speaker | TED - Nadine Burke Harris’ healthcare practice focuses on a little-understood, yet very common factor in childhood that can profoundly impact adult-onset disease: trauma.Russ Skiba, Indiana University Bloomington - Russell Skiba, Ph.D. is a Professor in the School Psychology program at Indiana University and Director of the Equity Project at Indiana University, a consortium of federal, state, and foundation-funded grants providing evidence to practitioners and policymakers in the areas of school violence, zero tolerance, and equity in education. Daniel J. Losen | National Center for Youth Law - Daniel J. Losen is the Senior Director for the Education team at the National Center for Youth Law and contributes to the organization's efforts in the area of education on behalf of all students, especially children of color and others that have historically been discriminated against. Dan's work includes promoting resource equity, the Honest Education campaign, and fighting against the school-to-prison pipeline at the national state and local levels. Dan oversees staffing for the Education Civil Rights Alliance, a National Center for Youth Law initiative that conducts research relevant to civil rights concerns, and engages in direct advocacy for systemic education reforms at the national, state, and local levels.Kent McIntosh | College of Education - Kent McIntosh, PhD, teaches and conducts research in the areas of positive behavior support, equity in school discipline, and sustainability of evidence-based interventions in schools. He is Director of Educational and Community Supports, a research unit in the College of Education.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Janelle Crowley, Chief of Staff at Governors State University. Dr. Crowley shares her experiences with hearing but not accepting “no” in spite of her struggles with hearing loss. She tells about the positive encouragement she received from many teachers and professors that inspired her career trajectory, as well as the disheartening stories of barriers and discouragement from others. We talk about the awareness and intentionality in helping students with different abilities feel included and capable. Dr. Crowley discusses her role at Governors State University and the many exciting initiatives in the works for the future. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 3 Episode 15.

In this episode during Disability Awareness Month, we talk to Ms. Angela Szczepanik-Sanchez, Director of Access Services for Students with Disabilities (ASSD) in the Division of Student Affairs at Governors State University. We ask about awareness versus comfortability and the continuum of tolerance, acceptance, inclusion, and allyship. Ms. Szczepanik-Sanchez explains the legal requirements of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and section 504 compared to Accessible Design Act (ADA) as they relate to both students and employees. We also discuss what it looks like for students to transition from Pre-K to grade 8 and then high school, as well as college to workforce.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Alexandria Pearson about the responsibilities of a special educator. Ms. Pearson explains different classroom settings, as well as her role as co-teacher, one-on-one pull-out instructor, and case manager for children with exceptionalities. We discuss individualized education programs, modifications, and transition to adulthood. This episode also provides information for pathways to becoming an educator. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 2 Episode 20.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Gaetane Jean-Marie about her work in elevating women’s voices in social justice. Dr. Jean-Marie shares personal experiences modeling how we can prepare our voices while in safe spaces to speak up and speak out when we are in less comfortable situations. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 1 Episode 20.Referenced in this podcast:How to Be an Antiracist — Ibram X. Kendi - Ibram X. Kendi's concept of antiracism reenergizes and reshapes the conversation about racial justice in America--but even more fundamentally, points us toward liberating new ways of thinking about ourselves and each other. Instead of working with the policies and system we have in place, Kendi asks us to think about what an antiracist society might look like, and how we can play an active role in building it. Women of Color in Higher Education: Turbulent Past, Promising Future - (2011), "Advertisement", Jean-Marie, G. and Lloyd-Jones, B. (Ed.) Women of Color in Higher Education: Turbulent Past, Promising Future (Diversity in Higher Education, Vol. 9), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, p. i. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3644(2011)0000009024So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo | Hachette Book Group - In So You Want to Talk About Race, Ijeoma Oluo guides readers of all races through subjects ranging from police brutality and cultural appropriation to the model minority myth in an attempt to make the seemingly impossible possible: honest conversations about race, and about how racism infects every aspect of American life.Gaëtane Jean-Marie - Dean Jean-Marie joins Rowan from the University of Northern Iowa, where, since 2016, she served as dean of the College of Education and the Richard O. Jacobson Endowed Chair of Leadership in Education. She also previously served as interim director of UNI’s Center for Educational Transformation.What is Servant Leadership? - Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership - Servant Leadership is a non-traditional leadership philosophy, embedded in a set of behaviors and practices that place the primary emphasis on the well-being of those being served.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Candace Smith, Assistant Professor in Early Childhood and Principal Preparation at Governors State University. We discuss the high instances of hate crimes and the newly-legislated Illinois Racism-Free Act. Dr. Smith shares her path to awareness and advocacy for anti-racism work and what she is doing in educator preparation and local schools. Importantly, we talk about the conversations that need to happen at both the small and large dinner tables at home. Referenced in this podcast:Jonathan Kozol - Jonathan Kozol received the National Book Award for Death at an Early Age, the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award for Rachel and Her Children, and countless other honors for Savage Inequalities, Amazing Grace, The Shame of the Nation, and Fire in the Ashes. The final and culminating work of his career is now nearing completion.The Little Book of Racial Healing - Tom DeWolf - The Little Book of Racial Healing is available NOW from the Good Books imprint of Skyhorse Publishing, this new addition to the Little Books of Justice and Peacebuilding series presents the Coming to the Table Approach to racial healing in book form for the first time. PLEASE NOTE: 100% of author proceeds from this Little Book are donated to Coming to the Table to support the racial healing work described within its pages.Waking Up White – Debby Irving - Inspired by my own two-steps-forward, one-step-back journey away from racial ignorance, I educate other white people confused and frustrated by racism by transforming anxiety and inaction into agency and action.Racism Free Schools Act - The Racism-Free Schools Act requires every school in Illinois to adopt a specific policy on race-related acts of hate, train employees to recognize and report them, and inform student and families of their rights and reporting options. Together we can educate, repair, and prevent future harm.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Frank Harris about affirming students’ identities and affirming their strengths. Dr. Harris shares how to disrupt the 3D effect of distrust, disdain, and disregard with trust, mutual respect, and care. We also talk about his newly developed concept of racelighting. This episode was originally released under Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice Season 1 Episode 38.Referenced in this podcast:Dr. Frank Harris, III - Dr. Frank Harris III is a professor of postsecondary education and co-director of the Community College Equity Assessment Lab at San Diego State University (SDSU). Dr. Harris is also a senior strategist in SDSU’s Division of Campus Diversity and Student Affairs, and, in 2021–2022, the SDSU President named Harris the faculty athletics representative. In Fall 2022, Harris began his appointment as associate dean of diversity, equity, and inclusion in SDSU’s College of Education, and he received the SDSU Alumni Distinguished Faculty Award for the 2021–2022 academic year.Dr. J. Luke Wood - J. Luke Wood, Ph.D. is the Vice President for Student Affairs & Campus Diversity and Chief Diversity Officer at San Diego State University (SDSU). Wood is also the Dean’s Distinguished Professor of Education and a tenured full Professor in the Department of Administration, Rehabilitation and Postsecondary Education (ARPE) at SDSU. According to the Black in the Crimson in Black, Wood is the first and only Distinguished Professor of Black/African American descent in SDSU’s history. In 2023, Wood was appointed by the state Senate to serve on the newly established California Racial Equity Commission. He joined SDSU in 2011 and is an active researcher and equity-driven leader.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Alyssa Hadley Dunn, the Director of Teacher Education and an Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Connecticut. Dr. Dunn describes the motivation for her book, Teaching on the Days After: Educating for Equity in the Wake of Injustice. She shares her education journey that led her to better understand racial inequities and how to confront them. We discuss how foundational the classroom community and relationships are to being prepared for any "days after" in K-12 and university teaching. Referenced in this podcast:James Baldwin - James Baldwin (born August 2, 1924, New York, New York, U.S.—died December 1, 1987, Saint-Paul de Vence, France) was an essayist, novelist, and playwright whose eloquence and passion on the subject of race in America made him one of the most important voices of the 20th century.Teaching on Days After - What should teachers do on the days after major events, tragedies, and traumas, especially when injustice is involved? This beautifully written book features teacher narratives and youth-authored student spotlights that reveal what classrooms do and can look like in the wake of these critical moments. Dunn incisively argues for the importance of equitable commitments, humanizing dialogue, sociopolitical awareness, and a rejection of so-called pedagogical neutrality across all grade levels and content areas. By highlighting the voices of teachers who are pushing beyond their concerns and fears about teaching for equity and justice, readers see how these educators address negative reactions from parents and administrators, welcome all student viewpoints, and negotiate their own feelings. These inspiring stories come from diverse areas such as urban New York, rural Georgia, and suburban Michigan, from both public and private schools, and from classrooms with both novice and veteran teachers. Teaching on Days After can be used to support current classroom teachers and to better structure teacher education to help preservice teachers think ahead to their future classrooms.Brittney Cooper, Cultural theorist - With scholarship and incisive commentary that exposes the marginalized narratives hidden within "mainstream" history, Brittney Cooper writes at the vanguard of cultural criticism.Waking Up White – Debby Irving - Waking Up White is the book I wish someone had handed me decades ago. My hope is that by sharing my sometimes cringe-worthy struggle to understand racism and racial tensions, I offer a fresh perspective on bias, stereotypes, manners, and tolerance. As I unpack my own long-held beliefs about colorblindness, being a good person, and wanting to help people of color, I reveal how each of these well-intentioned mindsets actually perpetuated my ill-conceived ideas about race.DR. BETTINA LOVE - Bettina Love - Dr. Bettina L. Love holds the prestigious William F. Russell Professorship at Teachers College, Columbia University, and is the acclaimed author of the New York Times bestseller “Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal.” In 2022, the Kennedy Center recognized Dr. Love as one of the Next 50 Leaders dedicated to making the world more inspired, inclusive, and compassionate.A Comprehensive Guide to the Bronfenbrenner Ecological Model - Bronfenbrenner's ecological model is a framework that can be utilized to understand the complex systems that influence human development. In particular, this model emphasizes the importance of environmental factors and social influences in shaping development and behavior.