Dr. Damon A. Williams was UW–Madison’s inaugural chief diversity officer. He advocated for a campus where inclusion is a priority, leading to the establishment of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement, which is now celebrating its 15th anniversary. Hear from Williams as he talks about the state of this work with L&S Associate Dean for Inclusive Excellence DeVon Wilson.

Join us as we sit down with Dr. Lucas Zoet, Associate Professor in the Department of Geoscience who delves into the world of glaciology. Dr. Zoet shares his research on modern glaciers and their impact on landforms. But the journey doesn't stop there—he also highlights his collaborative work with the Menominee Nation Geoscience Program. Discover how this unique partnership fosters a deeper understanding of our natural world while respecting and preserving cultural heritage.

In this episode, Historian, Professor and Chair of the Department of African American Studies, Dr. Christy Clark-Pujara discusses the exploration of the Wisconsin Idea as it relates to uncovering and understanding the legacy of Black people and Black culture that has shaped Wisconsin; past, present and future.

Eric M. Wilcots, Dean of the College of Letters & Science shares how his approach to advancing DEIB within the college is deeply connected to the Wisconsin Idea. In 2020, he launched the Dean’s Initiative for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, created the L&S STEM Scholars program, and kicked off new engagement activities for L&S alumni of color.

L&S Elevate Host DeVon Wilson led a dynamic panel discussion on activating the Wisconsin Idea, recorded live during [RE] Connect weekend in September 2023. The conversation ranged from an honest look at the campus’ history with underrepresented communities to the important work being done today to make the University a place where everybody can flourish. For the visual recording of this episode, click here.

Dr. Tony Chambers is the Director of Equity, Inclusion and Innovation at UW-Madison’s Center for Healthy Minds. Listen in as he shares his academic journey as it relates to the role mindfulness plays in a diverse and inclusive workplace with host DeVon Wilson.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, UW-Madison’s Director of Tribal Relations, Aaron Bird Bear gets candid with host DeVon Wilson about reimagining Native representation at UW. In a compelling conversation about land acknowledgements and advancing the university’s reconciliation with its occupation of Ho-Chunk land, learn how Aaron – for more than 20 years, has been instrumental in centering indigenous people and culture at UW.

Social scientist, Dr. Alex Hanna shares her personal and academic journey through the lens of a transgender woman, and talks about the scholarship she created for UW-Madison sociology students supporting the LGBTQ+ community with host DeVon Wilson.