Caucusing, as a social justice activity, is traditionally implemented to provide an insider space for marginalized persons to share experiences and build a space for belonging and safety by excluding those who hold privileged identities. Within a particular event that combines privileged and oppressed, experiences are uneven, with insiders…

This critical autoethnographic dissertation delves into the personal journey of a Black female counselor and mother, whose path meanders through the complex terrain of education, leading her to a profound transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) leadership. Drawing from memories, emotions, and ongoing…

African American science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students' lack of transformative learning experiences at predominantly White universities negatively affect their degree completion. When these students do not feel accepted or have a sense of belonging in predominantly White majors and campuses due to sociocultural and…

In a youth-oriented culture, individuals in midlife who are facing 30-40 years of life after full-time employment are redefining retirement. As people are healthier, living longer, and desire to contribute to society in meaningful ways, college and university administrators have the opportunity to create innovative programs that align with…

Education is an act of love. One may argue however, that because it is such a personal act, it is difficult and nearly impossible to achieve it in an authentic manner beyond the face-to-face interaction of teacher and student. Yet, we now live in a time in which education has been transmitted to a virtual platform. This paper highlights how I…

This companion guide is intended to be used in conjunction with the Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) Integration Approach School Leader and Educator Self-Reflection Tools. This companion guide focuses on the following area of reflection: Cultivate a learning environment in which all community members are valued, can enact their agency, build…

This article explores the art and science of Mindfulness from the perspective of a Buddhist Monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, author of five books in the Mindfulness Essentials series, and an American medical doctor, Jon Kabat Zinn founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction clinic (MBSR) at the University of Massachusetts. In addition, we will explore…

In this article we propose a five-step sequenced approach to integrative interdisciplinary learning in undergraduate gateway courses. Drawing from the literature of interdisciplinarity, transformative learning theory, and theories of reflective learning, we utilize a sequence of five steps early in our respective undergraduate gateway courses to…