Critical Conversations

Recently, Rick Daniels, Ed. D hosted a campus-wide discussion at Oakton College on the impact of recent executive orders and their implications for our institution and community. This event was opened with remarks from President Joianne L. Smith, Ph. D., who reaffirmed Oakton's commitment to equity, inclusion, and supporting all students, faculty, and staff through evolving policy landscapes. Oakt...

In this brief episode, we want to share some encouragement with folks as DEI work is under attack once again, but we also want to take a moment to spotlight the holiday observances, as well as some Oakton College campus events for the month of February. We've got a full episode coming soon for Black History Month, so stay tuned! Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusio...

In this episode, the goal is to foster an inclusive dialogue that highlights the experiences, challenges, and opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community at Oakton College. This episode will provide actionable insights for improving systems and fostering a culture that uplifts all individuals. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator o...

In our first episode of 2025, we check in with Brenda Cruz, the Coordinator for Institutional Equity and Inclusion at Oakton College about January Holiday Observances and what we can do to recognize, acknowlege and support these holidays and those who observe them. Dr. Daniels then shares three points of encouragement to help navigate the uncertainty ahead of us, especially with regards to the wor...

As language continues to evolve, so do the ways we refer to our diverse identities. This episode will be an open dialogue about the terms "Latine" and "Latinx," how and why these terms are used, what we understand about them, and their broader implications in creating inclusive spaces, especially within institutions like ours. Let's explore together how language intersects with identity and what s...

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 2...

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 em...

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...

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 C...

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.