Join us for the Season 3 premiere of the Critical Conversations Podcast as we unpack the Department of Justice's letter on "illegal" DEI practices in higher education. Our esteemed panelists Dear Aunaetitrakul, Keith Simonds, and Sylvia Rosillo will delve into three key areas of the letter: its interpretations of Title VI, its implications for diversity initiatives, and potential institutional responses. This vital discussion took place on Thursday, September 4 and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.

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

Guests: Dear Aunaetitrakul, Senior Manager, AANAPISI, COMPASS
Keith Simonds, Assistant Professor, Political Science
Sylvia Rosillo, Associate Professor, Library

Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion
Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

Join Dr. Rick Daniels, Janeen Jackson, and students from Oakton's Black Student Success Program as they explore the history, significance, and future of Juneteenth. This episode delves into personal reflections, the cultural impact of the holiday, and its recent federal recognition.

Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion
Guests: Janeen Jackson, Equity Coordinator for Building Lasting African Culture and Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) Student Success Program [BSSP]
Adaugo Uduko, Oakton Student, BSSP
Mulla Juma, Oakton Student, BSSP
AnnLouise Applewhite, Oakton Student, BSSP
Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion
Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode, I unpack a simple question that left me reflecting deeply: “Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” What followed was a realization about how our environments—and the roles we play in them—can shape how we show up. I explore the idea of “performing extroversion,” the fluidity of personality traits, and what it means to lead authentically, even when it feels counter to your natural rhythm. Whether you lean introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between, this episode invites you to rethink how identity shows up in your professional life. Drop a comment and join the conversation.

Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion
Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion
Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design