Critical Conversations

In this bonus episode, Dr. Rick Daniels sits down with trusted colleagues and friends, Janeen Jackson and Will Crawford to have a candid conversation about how they innovate to keep their students engaged, how they accept feedback, criticism, praise and love, and then let the discussion develop organically. No agenda! Topics also include the upcoming election and the musicians considered for the 2025 Superbowl Halftime Show.

Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Directory of Institutional Equity and Inclusion

Guests: Janeen Jackson, Equity Coordinator for B.L.A.C.K. Student Success and

Will Crawford, Distinguished Professor of English

Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode, we explore Oakton College's major strategic plans that are shaping our future. We delve into Vision 2030, Oakton's overarching strategic plan to build just and thriving communities, and discuss the role of the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM 2.0) plan in advancing our enrollment goals. We'll also highlight the college's Strategic Equity Plan and its impact on student and employee outcomes. President Joianne Smith, Dr. Ileo Lott, Dr. Jesse Ivory, and Dean Matt Huber Huber will join the show to share their insights and updates on Oakton's key guiding documents. Hosted by Dr. Rick Daniels Produced by Erick Rohn

This episode will focus on a year-end wrap up where we cover some of the highlights of the 2023-2024 academic year, including how some of the events in the larger society have shaped the work we do.

Guest Panelists: Johanna Fine, Human Resources Prashant Shinde, Information Technology Dr. Karl Brooks, Student Affairs Dr. Rick Daniels, Facilitator

Code switching is an intersectional and cross-cultural phenomenon that's stood the test of time. And while some argue that it's a healthy and common practice, others see it as a dangerous balancing act that can lead to mental, emotional, and even physical stress. Episode 3 tackles the complex idea of code switching and explores the question of the idea of bringing the whole self and the authentic self to the workplace environment. Additionally, listeners will hear from guest panelists on their experiences with code switching, and strategies for fostering an inclusive campus culture.

Guests: Janine Jackson, Rondell Merrill, Kamari Jordan, Will Crawford, and Camesha Richardson

The landscape around diversity, equity, and inclusion is changing rapidly, however, the idea of what these terms mean in practice is still up for debate. Episode 2 will focus on breaking down the meaning of diversity, equity, and inclusion; with particular attention being paid to how these concepts operate in sequence, cycle, and in operation. Additionally, listeners will learn more about Oakton College's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Council and what's in store for 2024.

Guest(s): Dr. Mia Hardy, Dean of Liberal Arts, Dr. Leana Cuellar, Interim Dean of Access Equity and Diversity.

Our subject focuses on the ways in which DEI programs are facing legal challenges; threatening the existence of such initiatives as affinity groups, identity-based student organizations, anti-racism training, and more. Our guest is Frank Garrett, an attourney at Robbins Schwartz and Oakton College's legal counsel.