Real Talk: A Diversity in Higher Ed Podcast

Jamil and Renea explore the the invisible labor and emotion it takes to progress social justice. Being an activist, it takes emotional, intellectual, and physical work. They cover the concept of "reverse racism," affirmative action, and the normalization of Black trauma in our everyday lives.

By day, Dr. Jaye Gardiner is working as a postdoctoral fellow in pancreatic cancer research, mentoring up-and-coming STEM students, and teaching in the Teen Research Internship Program (TRIP) Initiative through the Fox Chase Cancer Center. But believe it or not, that still leaves plenty of time for her other passion: increasing science exposure, access, and literacy through comics. Joined by SCSU student and fellow cartoonist Lupita Barajas, we explore the important role of comics in examining diverse human experiences and provoking social change.

You can see more of Jaye's work on her personal website and the JKX Comics page. Learn more about JKX's forthcoming comics anthology Gaining Steam: Illuminating Research through Art here!

Six Asian women were murdered in Atlanta this week amidst a surge of anti-Asian discrimination and hate crimes. While investigations are still underway in Georgia, we couldn't miss this opportunity to have some real talk. In this bonus episode, you'll also get a first look at our behind-the-scenes crew! #StopTheHateAAPI

Early Drop 📩 If social justice and inclusion are top priorities on campus, then where is the money? As we strive to strengthen our footing as a social justice university, Dr. Lin and Dr. Carter-David discuss the hidden costs and burdens placed on people - specifically women - of color to meet student and academic demands.

Yes. We have (and love) the Sage Center. But it still seems like some things are missing... Listen in and add your suggestions @realtalkscsu on Instagram!

After an inspiring conversation last week with Dr. Evans about the evolution of black culture and faculty on university campuses, we return with students Renea and Antione to talk about black student experiences - from seeing yourself reflected (or not) in your professors to codeswitching, navigating the college experience, and creating spaces for black joy.

Dr. Marian Evans, professor of public health at Southern Connecticut State University, breaks down her years working in the medical field and higher education, and the changes she's seen in multiculturalism and professional support for black faculty on campus. We'll also break down some of today's news about Cornel West, Smith College, and more.

What keeps us from having authentic, meaningful conversations about racism, discrimination and bias in the classroom? Learn about the foundations of diversity conversations in higher ed and how they are actually experienced by people of color.

Meet your hosts:

KC Councilor

Jamil Harp

Dr. Joe Bertolino joins Diane and Shanté to look back at how far higher ed has come, how far we have to go, and what his experience has been leading the university during challenging times.

Dr. Randolph Brooks joins us again to talk about the prevailing mental health stigmas across cultures and why they're more important than ever to break.