They Are Waiting for Us

In Part 2, Lisa continues her conversation with educator and author Sofía De Jesús. They dive deeper into the importance of equity and accessibility in computer science education, discussing how Sofía's work at Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science Academy strives to close the gaps in access to STEM education. Sofía emphasizes the need for thoughtful implementation of AI in classrooms and explores th...

In this episode of They Are Waiting For Us, Lisa welcomes Sofía De Jesús, author of Applied Computational Thinking with Python and a seasoned educator with over 24 years of experience. Sofía shares her journey in building inclusive and equitable STEM programs and the challenges of integrating technology effectively in education. They discuss the importance of ethical AI in K-12 classrooms and the...

In the second part of this insightful conversation, Lisa continues her discussion with Micah Kennedy, a professional learning manager at Code.org, exploring the evolving role of teachers as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into the classroom. Micah shares their perspective on how AI can serve as a valuable co-planner and teaching assistant, alleviating the administrativ...

Lisa sits down with Micah Kennedy, a professional learning manager at Code.org, to discuss the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the education landscape. Micah shares their personal journey into computer science education and their passion for making the field accessible and equitable for all students. The conversation delves into the emerging technologies that are poised to have...

In the second part, Lisa explores San José State University's role in shaping the Silicon Valley workforce with Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson. Given the university's proximity to tech innovators, Lisa asks how technology can enhance educational access, equity, and scalability. Dr. Teniente-Matson elaborates on how this unique positioning fosters access, promotes equity, and nurtures the talent pipel...

In the latest episode of the inspiring podcast "They Are Waiting For Us," Lisa welcomes Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, the 31st President of San José State University and a trailblazer in higher education. With over 30 years of experience championing student success, diversity, and experiential learning, Dr. Teniente-Matson shares her remarkable journey, including spearheading growth and earning pre...

In the second half of the episode, Lesley Slaton Brown dives deeper into her pioneering work in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space. She talks about the first steps to creating a diversity, equity, and inclusion program, sharing invaluable insights for organizations looking to embark on this critical journey. Lesley walks listeners through the key milestones and experiences that have shaped...

This week, Lisa is joined by Lesley Slaton Brown, the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the National Basketball Association. Lesley is a true trailblazer in the DEI space, implementing robust processes to drive belonging and opportunity across the NBA. Renowned as one of the Most Powerful Women in Corporate Diversity, a Top Influential Woman in Corporate America, and the Diversity...

In the second half of her discussion with California State Senator John Laird, Lisa dives deeper into critical issues facing the state's education system. The conversation turns to the challenges of ensuring access to technology for all students across California's diverse school districts. Laird, drawing upon his decades of experience in public service, provides insights into the major barriers a...

This week on They Are Waiting For Us, Lisa Andrew welcomes California State Senator John Laird to the show. Senator Laird has spent over two decades dedicated to public service in the state of California. Raised in Vallejo by parents who were teachers, Laird's commitment to his community took root from an early age. After serving nine years on the Santa Cruz City Council, including two terms as on...

In the episode's second part, Dr. Kirst talks about the lack of innovation in education and provides his expert perspective on why education has been so slow to embrace new ideas and technologies compared to other sectors. Lisa and Michael discuss the critical topic of education funding. Governor Newsom recently released his 2024–2025 budget proposal for California. Despite facing a major state fu...

Michael Kirst joins Lisa on this week's episode of "They Are Waiting for Us." Dr. Kirst brings over six decades of invaluable expertise and insight, having served as the longest-running President of the California State Board of Education. In addition to his pioneering work helping shape education policy for the state of California, Dr. Kirst has had an illustrious career as a professor at Stanfor...

In part two of their conversation, Chandra discusses what she hopes to achieve in her important work empowering communities. She shares her vision for the legacy she wants to leave behind after her impactful career driving progressive change. Chandra also dives deeper into the mission of Community Action Marin, the organization she has led since 2018. Tune in to hear Chandra's aspirations for the...

This week, Lisa welcomes Chandra Alexandre to They Are Waiting For Us. Chandra is a true champion and visionary for social justice. As the CEO of Community Action Marin since 2018, she has over 25 years of experience empowering organizations and communities. In a world that needs more justice, equity, and inclusion, Chandra Alexandre stands out as a thoughtful and compassionate leader dedicated to...

In the second part of their conversation, Brandon explores some of the exciting potential applications of AI in education with Lisa. He shares insights on how AI can enhance and augment human teaching, while also emphasizing the importance of ensuring transparency and ethics around its development. He also discusses ways tech companies can step up to provide more opportunities for students to gain...

Lisa welcomes accomplished technology sales leader Brandon Middleton to the show this week. With over 17 years of driving growth for emerging tech companies, Brandon shares his expertise in leveraging transformative technologies like AI, cloud computing, and Web3 to fuel business success. As a Senior Business Development Manager at Amazon Web Services, Brandon has been instrumental in developing i...

How did Taylor Shead come up with the idea of creating a 3D immersive game-based learning platform? What inspired her to focus on this part of the education eco-sphere? In this part of the podcast, Lisa asks Taylor about the origin story of Stemuli and how she turned her passion into a game-changing platform. Taylor also responds to the critics who might say that kids already spend too much screen...

Imagine a world where learning is as fun and exciting as playing a video game. That’s the world that Taylor Shead, the CEO and Founder of Stemuli, is creating with her innovative 3D immersive game-based learning platform. Stemuli combines the best of technology, neuroscience, and pedagogy to create personalized and interactive learning experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and collaboratio...

In the second part of Lisa's discussion with Juan Sánchez Muñoz, the Chancellor explains what makes UC Merced a compelling choice for students seeking advanced education. From specialized research centers tackling critical global issues, to high-touch faculty mentorship enabling students to achieve their academic goals, UC Merced offers a potent springboard into graduate studies and careers. Join...

Trailblazers inspire us to reach for our dreams. UC Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz embodies the resilient spirit of immigrants who shaped the abundance of America's Central Valley. His journey from the fields to the halls of academia lights the way for all who seek to better their lives through education. Join Lisa as she speaks with Chancellor Muñoz about the mentors who believed in his pot...

In the conclusion of Lisa’s talk with Katrina Stevens, the President and CEO of The Tech, Katrina dives into the huge impact of expanding broadband connectivity, including for Native American communities. She also shares her vision for creating inclusive ecosystems where all students can thrive. Katrina inspires us to leverage technology to truly transform education. Our students are waiting for u...

How can we unlock the potential in every learner and open doors to new opportunities? Lisa’s inspirational guest Katrina Stevens has devoted her career to transforming education and empowering students from all walks of life. As President and CEO of The Tech and an innovator across government, academia, and philanthropy, Katrina shares her vision for creating more inclusive and engaging learning e...

Lisa and Dr. Derek Mitchell wrap up their talk by exploring the intersection of education and social justice. They discuss how race affects the experiences and outcomes of students from historically marginalized communities. They also examine the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, and what message Derek would send to the justices. Derek shares his insights on so...

What does it take to be a leader who can transform some of the most challenged schools and districts in the country? How can educators use data, equity, and innovation to create lasting change for students from historically marginalized communities? In this premiere episode of “They Are Waiting For Us”, Lisa talks to Dr. Derek Mitchell, the CEO of Partners in School Innovation, an organization tha...