Allyship is more than just a buzzword—it’s about action, accountability, and showing up in meaningful ways. In this episode, Sam Benson, Assistant Director for Graduate Affairs for MS and PhD Students in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and Perdita Das, Assistant Dean of Hans Bethe House, discuss what allyship really means, how to navigate mistakes, and the ways we can all create more inclusive spaces. Through candid conversations and real-life examples, they explore the power of collaboration, the importance of self-reflection, and why true allyship requires continuous learning and unlearning.

Join Erin and Toral for an inspiring conversation with Dr. La Jerne Terry Cornish, President of Ithaca College, as she shares her journey from the front of a sixth-grade classroom in Baltimore to the helm of a higher education institution. Discover the pivotal mentors who shaped her path, the power of authentic leadership, and why creating “brave spaces” is essential for true belonging. Dr. Cornish highlights her commitment to strengthening partnerships between Ithaca’s higher ed institutions and local school districts. She also opens up about the challenges of staying true to institutional values in the face of resistance. Tune in to hear why she believes “how you start doesn’t determine how you finish” – and how she hopes to leave her legacy as the “accessible president.”

Julie Edwards, Assistant Vice President for Student Health and Wellbeing at Cornell, joins Erin and Toral for a powerful conversation about building a health-promoting campus. She shares how the adoption of the Okanagan Charter is shaping Cornell’s holistic approach to wellbeing, why fostering a culture of health is a shared responsibility, and the real impact of systemic changes like implementing floating holidays and credit caps. Julie also opens up about her personal journey and how it fuels her passion for creating a campus where everyone can thrive.

In this episode, Erin and Toral sit down with Thomas Jones (he/him/his), fair employment practice specialist at Cornell, to explore the transformative impact of the Restorative Record Project. Thomas shares his personal journey from incarceration to higher education and his role in helping justice-involved individuals highlight their skills and potential in the job market. Thomas discusses overcoming barriers, the power of transferable skills, and how he is helping reshape hiring practices. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, second chances, and building a more inclusive workforce.

What does it look like to create spaces that welcome all forms of spiritual exploration on such a diverse campus? Join Joel Harter (he/him/his) and Saorsa Wissman (she/her/hers) from Cornell’s Office of Spirituality and Meaning-Making as they dive into the intersection of faith, identity, and belonging. Reflecting on their personal and professional journeys, they share the challenges they’ve faced in navigating their spirituality and religious communities. They also discuss spiritual multiplicity and fluidity, and their commitment to providing inclusive spaces and resources on campus that support the religious wellbeing of students and employees.

Join Erin and Toral for a compelling conversation with Eve De Rosa, dean of faculty at Cornell, as she reflects on her journey to the university and her impactful work fostering inclusivity. Eve shares insights into her role, her commitment to equity and belonging for faculty at all levels, and the importance of involving staff voices when designing inclusive systems and cultures. From laboratory mice to leadership at Cornell, tune in to hear Eve’s fascinating journey and what she hopes to accomplish in her final year as dean of faculty.

In this episode, Erin and Toral welcome Alexis Boyce, manager of Cornell’s Asian American Studies Program and co-chair of the A&S Staff Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee. A recipient of the Employee Assembly Award for Staff Inclusion and Integrity, Alexis shares how her committee’s initiatives are driving meaningful change. She reflects on her commitment to equity and belonging, which extends beyond her professional role, and offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of identity when it comes to DEI work.

In this episode, Erin and Toral welcome Cornell Chief of Police Anthony Bellamy and Ithaca City Chief of Police Thomas Kelly. The chiefs discuss their paths to leadership, guiding philosophies on policing with empathy, and efforts to build trust within Ithaca and Cornell’s diverse communities. With a unique mix of a small-town atmosphere and a large student population, they explore the challenges of balancing community engagement with enforcement, fostering inclusivity and wellbeing, and collaborating on public safety to serve everyone in the community.

In this episode, Erin and Toral sit down with Ruth Merle-Doyle, Work Life Program Manager at Cornell, and Melissa Perry, CEO of the Child Development Council of Central New York, to discuss the urgent issue of child care accessibility. With the nation – especially Tompkins County – facing a severe shortage, they explore the impact on working parents, available resources, and why this challenge affects every employee, parent or not. Tune in for personal stories and professional insights on supporting families and caregivers in the workplace and learn why “leaving loudly” is key.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Erin and Toral are joined by Michelle Artibee (she/her), director of workforce wellbeing at Cornell, and Lyn Staack (she/they), director of education at the Advocacy Center of Tompkins County. Together, they discuss the critical resources available for employees experiencing domestic violence, consider various factors that impact assistance options and access, and explore ways managers and colleagues can appropriately provide support.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text START to 88788. You are not alone—support is available 24/7.