Too often executive leaders view diversity work as either a numerical problem (i.e. not enough diversity among the workforce or student population) or a problem of compliance that needs managing. However, to truly integrate the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout public postsecondary institutions, a multifaceted and longitudinal approach is required, as … [Read more...]
Historically Underserved Students: What We Know, What We Still Need to Know
In the twenty-first century, the processes by which students move from high school to college—including college choice, access, readiness, matriculation, and completion—are more important than ever before. Students from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds must negotiate these processes if they wish to thrive in an information-and-service-driven economy. However, not all … [Read more...]
Using Qualitative Methods to Assess Academic Success and Retention Programs for Underrepresented Minority Students
Programs that serve underrepresented minority students have long faced many challenges. Court decisions and state referendums have served as barriers to developing effective programs. The political and legal debates over the years about race-based initiatives have created environments that are more critical and circumspect of programs for Black, Indigenous, and/or racialized … [Read more...]
Through My Optics: Black Lives Matter (BLM) Chicago Protest Up Close Through Photos and Poetry
Poem Published Courtesy of Romel Bryant: Educator, Head Basketball Coach, Mentor & Founder of ICan2 Youth Programs, and Artist. In June 2020, Romel Bryant was running an errand and little did he know that he would find himself in the middle of a Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest, with little to no Black people. He uses poetry and photos to share his first hand experience. … [Read more...]
5 Ways of RESILIENCE to Support and Empower
It has been over two months since the murder and death of George Floyd, May 25, with the backdrop of a global pandemic and economic shutdown. And the destructive forces and realities of anti-Black racism are just as strong as ever. For Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Color, these forces and the endless fight against them are certainly nothing new. Some have been … [Read more...]