Critical Conversations

In this episode, Dr. Rick Daniels sits down with Oakton faculty and staff to discuss Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. They discuss the historical perspective and significance of AAPI Heritage Month, AAPI literature and research resources through Oakton's Library, the Model Minority Myth, and the diversity and intersectionality that exists within the AAPI community. Finally, the group discusses some upcoming programming and ways that the Oakton community can come together to learn about, uplift, and celebrate this diverse identity group. 🗓️ Mark your calendars! Asian Night Market - Friday, May 8th, 2026 from 5-9 PM - Student Street at the Des Plaines Campus Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Guests: Mohamed Mehdi, Distinguished Professor, Co-Chair, Humanities and Philosophy Michelle Oh, Associate Professor and Librarian for Open Access and Equity Christian Kim, Asian and Pacific Islander Equity Coordinator Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

Join Dr. Rick Daniels, Leah Kintner, and Esperanza Salgado-Rodriguez for a conversation on the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) at Oakton. In honor of Women's History Month, they discuss the history of AAWCC at Oakton, key issues facing women in community colleges, upcoming initiatives and events, membership, and scholarship opportunities. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion " Guests: Leah Kintner, Senior Program Developer for Workforce and Community Education Esperanza Salgado-Rodriguez, Trio Student Support Services Program Manager Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

On this episode of Critical Conversations, we spotlight one of Oakton's own: Manager of Oakton's Career and Transfer Center and author of the new book, "Sis, Ya Slip is Showing! A bold guide to ending toxic friendships and choosing yourself." We sat down with Dr. Smith in the studio and asked her more about her role at Oakton and helping students prepare for their next steps after Oakton. Then she discusses her new book adn its unique title, her writing process, and what she hopes readers will take away from reading it. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Guests: Adrienne C. Smith, Ed.D., Manager of Oakton's Career and Transfer Center Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

In this episode of the podcast, Brenda Cruz tells us about some of the December holidays and observances, including Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa and spending time with loved ones at the end of the year! Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguished Professor of Design

On this episode of Critical Conversations, we spotlight one of Oakton's Employee Resource Groups: Elevating Indigenous Voices at Oakton. We will unpack and discuss the origins of the group, its connection to the land Oakton occupies, and key takeaways from this year's Learning Day. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Jayne Blacker, Associate Professor of Mathematics Thomas Bowen, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

On this episode of Critical Conversations, we reflect on 10 years of leadership and service from President Joianne Smith. Together, we explore the accomplishments and challenges that have shaped her presidency, and look ahead to what the future holds for her and for Oakton College. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Special Guest: Dr. Joianne Smith, President Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguished Professor of Design

For November's holidays and observances, Brenda Cruz walks us through some information about Native American History Month, Dia de los Muertos, Veterans Day, and Transgender Day of Rememberance. Brenda and Rick discuss some ways that you can celebrate and observe these days respectfully this month. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguished Professor of Design

Join Dr. Rick Daniels for a special episode of Critical Conversations celebrating the trailblazing neo-soul artist D'Angelo. This episode explores four of his compositions that highlight spirituality, social justice, environmental responsibility, and Black empowerment. D'Angelo's music moves beyond romantic themes, offering a powerful reminder that sound itself can serve as a form of protest. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

On the next episode of the Critical Conversations podcast, we delve into "The Hidden Cost of Free Speech." Recent events have brought this classic topic back to the forefront, and together, we'll unpack how the national sentiment around free speech impacts the student experience, how we respond to various forms of on-campus expression, and how we share the Oakton story with the broader community. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Guests: Will Crawford, Distinguished Professor of English Keith Simonds, Assistant Professor of Political Science Steve Butera, Director of Communications and External Relations Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

In this episode of Critical Conversations, Dr. Rick Daniels cuts through the noise around "civil discourse" and gets real about what it actually means. Respectful debate isn't just about sharing opinions, it's about the skill, care, and discipline we bring into dialogue. Too often, what's framed as free speech is really provocation disguised as debate. Dr. Daniels challenges that notion and introduces four practical tools designed to help us sharpen our ability to disagree without disrespect, and to debate without demeaning. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

Have you ever felt like you had to shrink yourself to fit in? Been the "only one" in the room? Or felt pressure to speak for your whole community? In Season 3, Episode 2 of Critical Conversations, we begin our new series Who Switched My Code? by exploring tokenism as a form of social adaptability. Together, we'll walk through the three phases: Adaptation, Reaction, and Representation. I also tell my own personal story with tokenism and reflect on how I moved from survival to authentic leadership. Code-switching has a cost; let's unpack it together. #CriticalConversations #WhoSwitchedMyCode #Authenticity #RepresentationMatters #EquityInAction #Belonging Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Distinguised Professor of Design

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

In this episode, we explore Oakton's transition to Lattice, a new performance management system designed to foster meaningful conversations, continuous feedback, and employee growth. Join us as we discuss the journey behind the shift, unpack common perceptions around evaluations in higher education, and share what employees and managers can expect moving forward. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Mindy Finnigan, Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition and Development Tom Hicks, Director of Student Success and Academic Interventions Roxana Betka, Human Resources Generalist Tamara Laws, Bursar Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode, we welcome our first non-Oakton affiliated guest to the podcast, Dr. Jorg Vianden, author of the book, "Got Solidarity?: Challenging Straight White College Men to Advocate for Social Justice".  We get to know Dr. Jorg Vianden, how he got started in higher education, what inspired his doctoral work and the research that informed his book. Then we discuss how he handles resistence and challenging straight white men to be advocates for social justice. We also hear from Oakton's Manager of Student Conduct and Title IX Coordinator, Robert Pererson, who studied under Dr. Vianden. Enjoy the show!  Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Dr. Jorg Vianden, Professor, Student Affairs Administrator, and Author Robert Peterson, Manager of Student Conduct and Title IX Coordinator, Oakton College Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In the last Holidays and Observances episode of the academic year, Brenda is going to take you from May 1st through the summer months! Jewish-American heritage month spans the entire month of May, with Lag Ba'Omer from May 15-16th, which is a Jewish religious holiday celebrated on the 33rd day of the Counting of the Omer, which occurs on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar; a period in the Jewish calendar between Passover and Shavuot. Memorial Day is on May 26th, a commemoration honoring and remembering the men and women who died serving the US military.  June is Pride Month, a celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, commemorating and celebrating the contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans culture and the queer community. Shavout is at the beginning of June (1st-3rd), which is a Jewish holiday to commemorate the giving of the Torah to Moses at Mount Sinai. Eid al Adha is June 6-7th, the Festival of Sacrifice commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God's command. Juneteenth is on June 19th, celebrating the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States. Al-Hijrah is June 26-27th marking the Islamic lunar new year, named after the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622CE. Independence Day is July 4th, where the United States celebrates the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, establishing the United States' independence from Great Britain. Lastly, Tisha B'Av is from August 2-3; a somber commemoration of several tradegies in Jewish history, including the destruction of two holy Temples in Jerusalem. 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

In this episode, Dr. Rick Daniels sits down with trusted colleagues and friends with NO AGENDA. This time around, Dr. Daniels is joined by Tina Fakhrid-Deen, Distinguished Professor of English and Co-coorinator of Creative Writing and Terrance Stevenson, Coordinator for Oakton's Emory Williams Academy for Black Men. Topics include the commonalities of their circuitous educational journey, important teachers and role models, some of the struggles, wake-up calls and epiphanies they experienced along the way, and how they now help their students rise to expectations while breaking down barriers. This episode is a powerful, candid, and critical conversation! We hope you enjoy 🎧 Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Tina Fakhrid-Deen, Distinguished Professor of English and Co-coorinator of Creative Writing Terrance Stevenson, Coordinator for Oakton's Emory Williams Academy for Black Men Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode of Critical Conversations, we reflect on Learning Day 2024, from October of last year. As we approach the end of the 2024-2025 academic year, it's a great time to look back at our notes, re-center some of the important themes, and give space to have conversations about how employees, faculty, and staff can continue to act on what Learning Day offered, while also planning for the future. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Leah Kintner, Senior Workforce and Community Education Program Developer and Learning Day Programming Chair Ella Whitehead, Assistant Director of Enrollment for Equity Outreach and Learning Day Committee Co-chair Dr. Ruben Howard, Dean of Business and Career Technologies and Learning Day Committee Co-chair Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this brief episode, we want to share some of the holidays and observances in April, including Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, National Arab-American Hertiage Month, National Autism Acceptance Month, and Earth Month. Religious Observances in April include Passover, Holy Week leading up to the end of Lent and Easter Sunday, and Orthodox Easter; Pascha or Ressurrection Sunday. 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

In this episode, we speak with some folks from the Adult and Continuing Education department at Oakton. We highlight the experiences, challenges, and opportunities for Continuing Education and Non-Credit students at Oakton College. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Delia Rodriguez, Dean of Adult and Continuing Education Itri Papanikolla, Adult Education Transitions Coordinator Elena Smoukova, Senior Manager of Adult Education  Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode, we introduce Chief Aaron Wernick to the Oakton community, discuss his vision for the Oakton Police Department, and address key concerns regarding public safety, policing policies, and community relations. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guest: Chief Aaron Wernick, Chief of Police and Emergency Management Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

In this episode of Critical Conversations, we dive into the Department of Education's latest Dear Colleague Letter and its impact on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. With growing resistance to DEI efforts in education, we unpack the letter's key statements, analyze the broader political and social context, and explore strategies for staying resilient in this work. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on what this means for institutions, educators, and DEI practitioners. 🎧 Listen now 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

In this brief episode, we want to share some of the holidays and observances in March, including celebrating women's identities in Women's HERstory Month. The Jewish celebration of survival, Purim, is also this month, as well as the Hindu festival starting the month of Phalguna and celebrating spring and rejuvenation. Nowruz, meaning "New Day," is also aligned with the vernal equinox (start of spring) and is celebrated with family, food, and reflection. Finally, at the end of March comes the end of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, "the Festival of Breaking the Fast," which is observed by attending communal prayers and sermons, and giving zakat al-fitr.  Links to more information on each can be found in your podcast player - check your app for chapter markers, custom chapter art, and links.  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

In this episode of Critical Conversations, we explore the power of embracing Blackness with special guests Krissie Harris and Lindsey Hunter. Together, we discuss defining Blackness, resisting colonizer energy, and navigating spaces where it is undervalued or misunderstood. Tune in for a candid conversation on identity, community, and the joy of honoring Blackness in both personal and professional life. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Krissie Harris, Senior Manager of Student Life and Campus Inclusion Lindsey Hunter, Director of Admission and Enrollment Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

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. Oakton's new Chief of Police, Aaron Wernick, and today's guest, Assisstant Professor of Political Science, Keith Simonds, also spoke at this event. In this episode, Dr. Daniels and Professor Simonds will discuss executive orders; what they are, how they've been used throughout history, and with a focus on their implications for education, immigration, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guest: Keith Simonds, Assistant Professor of Political Science Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

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

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 of Institutional Equity an Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

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 work of DEI.  Finally, we wrap up the episode with a brief look at the episodes coming later this season that you definitely won't want to miss! Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guest: Brenda Cruz, Coordinator of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

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 steps we can take to foster inclusivity in our language moving forward. 
 Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion  Coordinator: Brenda Cruz, Institutional Equity and Inclusion Coordinator  Producer: Erick Rohn, Faculty Special Guests: Gabriel Chacon, Stephanie Herrera, and ANDALE Students Jorge Tercero, Omar Alanis, Sandy Cardoso

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 2025 Superbowl Halftime Show. Host: Dr. Rick Daniels, Directory of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Guests: Janeen Jackson, Equity Coordinator for B.L.A.C.K. Student Success and Will Crawford, Distinguished Professor of English Producer: Erick Rohn, Professor of Design

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 employee outcomes.  President Joianne Smith, Dr. Ileo Lott, Dr. Jesse Ivory, and Dean Matt Huber Huber will join the show to share their insights and updates on Oakton's key guiding documents. Hosted by Dr. Rick Daniels Produced by Erick Rohn

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 self to the workplace environment. Additionally, listeners will hear from guest panelists on their experiences with code switching, and strategies for fostering an inclusive campus culture. Guests: Janine Jackson, Rondell Merrill, Kamari Jordan, Will Crawford, and Camesha Richardson

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 College's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Council and what's in store for 2024.  Guest(s): Dr. Mia Hardy, Dean of Liberal Arts, Dr. Leana Cuellar, Interim Dean of Access Equity and Diversity.   

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.