L&S Elevate

In this episode, we sit down with L&S Dean’s Ambassador Jess Randle, a Biology and Global Health student whose experiences in Kenya, Uganda, Belize, and beyond have shaped her commitment to equitable care, ethical global health practice, and advocacy for underserved communities. From marine research and public health projects to study abroad and scuba expeditions, Jess shares how resilience, purpose, empathy, and creativity guide her path as she builds a future bridging clinical medicine and public health impact.

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Mayra Oyola-Merced grew up tracking hurricanes and tropical storms, and that early curiosity turned into a lifelong passion for understanding the weather shaping her island. Now an Assistant Professor of Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences at UW-Madison, she takes us behind the scenes of how satellites help scientists “see” severe storms and aviation hazards like turbulence, connecting weather research to real-world safety and smarter forecasting.

In this episode of L&S Elevate, meet Jack Taylor, a senior from Princeton, Wisconsin, who’s double-majoring in Landscape & Urban Studies and Anthropology with minors in Chican@ & Latin@ Studies and Archaeology. From shaping clay in the ceramics studio to envisioning the cities of tomorrow, Jack’s journey is all about connection between people, places, and the past. He shares how his love for urban planning and historic preservation drives his mission to create more inclusive, sustainable communities. Tune in as Jack reflects on how curiosity, creativity, and care for the world around him guide his path forward.

Dr. Damon A. Williams was UW–Madison’s inaugural chief diversity officer. He advocated for a campus where inclusion is a priority, leading to the establishment of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement, which is now celebrating its 15th anniversary. Hear from Williams as he talks about the state of this work with L&S Associate Dean for Inclusive Excellence DeVon Wilson.

Join us as we sit down with Dr. Lucas Zoet, Associate Professor in the Department of Geoscience who delves into the world of glaciology. Dr. Zoet shares his research on modern glaciers and their impact on landforms. But the journey doesn't stop there—he also highlights his collaborative work with the Menominee Nation Geoscience Program. Discover how this unique partnership fosters a deeper understanding of our natural world while respecting and preserving cultural heritage.

In this episode, Historian, Professor and Chair of the Department of African American Studies, Dr. Christy Clark-Pujara discusses the exploration of the Wisconsin Idea as it relates to uncovering and understanding the legacy of Black people and Black culture that has shaped Wisconsin; past, present and future.

Eric M. Wilcots, Dean of the College of Letters & Science shares how his approach to advancing DEIB within the college is deeply connected to the Wisconsin Idea. In 2020, he launched the Dean’s Initiative for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, created the L&S STEM Scholars program, and kicked off new engagement activities for L&S alumni of color.

L&S Elevate Host DeVon Wilson led a dynamic panel discussion on activating the Wisconsin Idea, recorded live during [RE] Connect weekend in September 2023. The conversation ranged from an honest look at the campus’ history with underrepresented communities to the important work being done today to make the University a place where everybody can flourish. For the visual recording of this episode, click here.

Dr. Tony Chambers is the Director of Equity, Inclusion and Innovation at UW-Madison’s Center for Healthy Minds. Listen in as he shares his academic journey as it relates to the role mindfulness plays in a diverse and inclusive workplace with host DeVon Wilson.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, UW-Madison’s Director of Tribal Relations, Aaron Bird Bear gets candid with host DeVon Wilson about reimagining Native representation at UW. In a compelling conversation about land acknowledgements and advancing the university’s reconciliation with its occupation of Ho-Chunk land, learn how Aaron – for more than 20 years, has been instrumental in centering indigenous people and culture at UW.