Holding Space

In this episode of “Holding Space,” we discover disability diversity at Rutgers University. Whether it be implementing classroom technology aids or using thoughtful language to avoid microaggressions, Bill Welsh and Wil Vargas lead us in a conversation alongside Dr. Joan Collier that aims to address barriers to inclusion. This podcast is hosted by Rutgers University Equity and Inclusion.

Rutgers University has over 40 religious-focused student organizations and 25+ chaplaincies, with a Multifaith Council promoting an inclusive environment for intellectual and spiritual exploration. In this episode of “Holding Space,” Dr. Joan Collier spoke with Atiya Aftab, Esq.; Rabbi Jason Cook; and Kerri Willson. We reflected on how religious biases affects certain groups differently, how Rutgers can accommodate different religious groups, and the value in bridge building between communities. This podcast is hosted by Rutgers University Equity and Inclusion.

We all have the potential to cause harm due to unconscious biases. In this episode of “Holding Space,” Dr. Joan Collier spoke with Avery Arrington, Kaylin Padovano, and Rebecca Vazquez to discuss different ways that institutions like Rutgers University can address and repair harm. By placing ideas such as accountability and restorative justice in the center of the discourse, this episode offers practices and behaviors to make Rutgers an inclusive environment for all. This podcast is hosted by Rutgers University Equity and Inclusion.

This week, Bill Welsh and Desiree White join Dr. Joan Collier to discuss ways to shift thinking about accessibility and examine what universal practices from the pandemic we should hold on to. Topics discussed: Accessibility Digital Accessibility Software Accessibility Links mentioned in this episode: * Accessibility is for Everyone - Book by Laura Kalbag Accessibility Talks - A YouTube meet-up group that features speakers and conversations around the topic of digital accessibility. * Rutgers University Access and Disability Resources - Central unit at Rutgers that works with all of the Offices of Disability Services (ODS) at every Rutgers University campus location to provide reasonable accommodations and services for students with disabilities. * Rutgers Barrier Buster Page - Website that provides resources at the University that help eliminate barriers to a full Rutgers experience.

This week, Kaylin Padovano joins Dr. Joan Collier to discuss the concept of intersectionality and how it affects her work as a staff & faculty training coordinator for the Center on Violence Against Women and Children at the Rutgers School of Social Work. Topics discussed: Intersectionality Interpersonal Violence Social Justice Links mentioned in this episode: #MeToo and Black Women: From Hip Hop to Hollywood - Episode 3 of the podcast Intersectionality Matters with Kimberle Crenshaw. Black Women's Blueprint - Black feminist organization Hollaback! - Bystander intervention organization Because of Anita - A four-part podcast the explores the enduring impact of Anita Hill's testimony with new insights and on-the-ground stories from guests.

Holding Space host Dr. Joan Collier speaks with Dr. Melissa Wooten about educational equity and how having an ‘equity mindset' can influence university support for historically underserved students.

Holding Space host Dr. Joan Collier speaks with Dr. Enobong (Anna) Branch about her role as Senior Vice President for Equity at Rutgers University, the role of diversity, inclusion, and equity within university life and what being a ‘beloved community' means. "Sometimes you set out to do work and other times the work finds you."