Join Erin and Toral for a compelling conversation with Eve De Rosa, dean of faculty at Cornell, as she reflects on her journey to the university and her impactful work fostering inclusivity. Eve shares insights into her role, her commitment to equity and belonging for faculty at all levels, and the importance of involving staff voices when designing inclusive systems and cultures. From laboratory mice to leadership at Cornell, tune in to hear Eve’s fascinating journey and what she hopes to accomplish in her final year as dean of faculty.

In this episode, Erin and Toral welcome Alexis Boyce, manager of Cornell’s Asian American Studies Program and co-chair of the A&S Staff Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee. A recipient of the Employee Assembly Award for Staff Inclusion and Integrity, Alexis shares how her committee’s initiatives are driving meaningful change. She reflects on her commitment to equity and belonging, which extends beyond her professional role, and offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of identity when it comes to DEI work.

In this episode, Erin and Toral welcome Cornell Chief of Police Anthony Bellamy and Ithaca City Chief of Police Thomas Kelly. The chiefs discuss their paths to leadership, guiding philosophies on policing with empathy, and efforts to build trust within Ithaca and Cornell’s diverse communities. With a unique mix of a small-town atmosphere and a large student population, they explore the challenges of balancing community engagement with enforcement, fostering inclusivity and wellbeing, and collaborating on public safety to serve everyone in the community.

In this episode, Erin and Toral sit down with Ruth Merle-Doyle, Work Life Program Manager at Cornell, and Melissa Perry, CEO of the Child Development Council of Central New York, to discuss the urgent issue of child care accessibility. With the nation – especially Tompkins County – facing a severe shortage, they explore the impact on working parents, available resources, and why this challenge affects every employee, parent or not. Tune in for personal stories and professional insights on supporting families and caregivers in the workplace and learn why “leaving loudly” is key.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Erin and Toral are joined by Michelle Artibee (she/her), director of workforce wellbeing at Cornell, and Lyn Staack (she/they), director of education at the Advocacy Center of Tompkins County. Together, they discuss the critical resources available for employees experiencing domestic violence, consider various factors that impact assistance options and access, and explore ways managers and colleagues can appropriately provide support. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text START to 88788. You are not alone—support is available 24/7.

In this heartfelt episode, Bert Odom-Reed, director of Cornell Broadcast Studios, shares an announcement with our audience. As he celebrates his seventh season producing the Inclusive Excellence Podcast and 35 years at Cornell, Bert takes us down memory lane, highlighting his favorite episodes and the most impactful moments along the way. He leaves listeners with inspiring words of wisdom and a glimpse into the exciting future that lies ahead. Join us for one last “Thanks, Bert!

In the season 7 premiere, the Inclusive Excellence Podcast returns with hosts Erin Sember-Chase and Toral Patel reflecting on their summer and sharing an exclusive preview of what’s to come. In this episode, they take a closer look at the foundation of the podcast by exploring the true meaning and history of the term “inclusive excellence.” Plus, don’t miss their special message to listeners as they kick off an exciting new season.

In the season finale, Erin and Toral are joined by Cal Walker, retiree of Cornell and longstanding citizen of Ithaca for nearly 50 years. Cal shares his journey from Civil Rights-era Alabama to New York, recalling the moments that ignited his passion for activism and social justice. Tune in to hear how Cal has embodied the mantra “blossom where you are planted,” enriching the Ithaca and Cornell communities and encouraging listeners to cultivate meaningful connections by sowing seeds of positive change wherever they can.

In this episode, Erin and Toral let listeners in on the evolving world of recruitment with Carolyn Chow (she/her/hers) and Brad Stock (he/him/his), colleagues and talent acquisition partners at Cornell. The pair share their unique journeys from applicants to recruiters at the university and how their experiences shape the way they engage with candidates today. Whether it's job seekers looking for employment opportunities or hiring managers pursuing prospective candidates, tune in to explore best practices when it comes to being intentional and inclusive during the hiring process.

Join us in celebrating Women’s History Month as we delve into this year’s theme: "Appreciating women who advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion." In this episode, Erin and Toral are joined by Lauren Frederick (she/her/hers), colleague and administrative coordinator in Cornell’s Department of Inclusion and Belonging. With honesty and vulnerability, Lauren takes listeners on a journey, sharing the challenges of navigating life as a first-generation professional, single mother, and being neurodivergent. From setbacks to triumphs, Lauren reveals how her life experiences have shaped and fueled her commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive world for all.

In this episode, Erin and Toral are joined by Ati Alipour (she/her/hers), assistant ombuds in the Cornell University Ombuds Office. Ati shares her rich history in the field of conflict resolution and mediation as a practicing attorney and former consultant for the United Nations. From understanding power imbalances to embracing differing perspectives, hear how to best address and navigate conflicts in our everyday work and life. For more information on the Cornell University Ombuds Office, visit https://ombuds.cornell.edu/.