Empathy and Equity: Building Belonging in Education with Dr. Kendra Hall - Episode 28

Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Dr. Kendra Hall, an educator specializing in equity and inclusion in higher education. They explore the nuances of inclusion, focusing on creating environments where everyone feels they belong. Kendra shares insights on transitioning students with disabilities from K-12 to college, emphasizing self-advocacy and navigating accommodations. They discuss empathy as a tool for fostering belonging and challenge systemic barriers in education and society. Practical tips for inclusivity include thoughtful event planning and self-education about others' experiences. The episode concludes with resources for advancing equity work and personal reflections on inclusion.

Key Takeaways:

Belonging Work: Empathy and belonging are central to true inclusion, extending beyond surface-level accommodations.

Self-Advocacy: Teaching students to advocate for themselves is essential, especially in college transitions.

Systemic Barriers: Traditional policies and systems often unintentionally marginalize; proactive redesign is critical.

Practical Inclusivity: Small steps, like inclusive event planning, can foster a culture of belonging.

Continuous Learning: Educators and parents should seek knowledge independently to better support diverse communities.

Dr. Hall’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is the practice of ensuring that all people, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or identities, feel welcomed, valued, and supported within a community or organization. This concept extends beyond mere tolerance or acceptance to actively fostering an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are respected and embraced. Inclusion involves access, representation, authenticity, support, cultural capital, cultural competence, and belonging.

Dr. Hall’s Bio:

Collaborative leader with dedication to partnering with staff, faculty, and community partners to promote an engaged, empowering learning environment that is welcoming to all learners. Strengths in building and maintaining relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders in dynamic, quickly changing settings. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude.

Connect with Dr. Hall:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-hall-academic/

Email: [e-mail]

Resources:

Maghsoodi, A. H., Ruedas-Gracia, N., & Jiang, G. (2023). Measuring college belongingness: Structure and measurement of the sense of social fit scale. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 70(4), 424-435. https://doi.org/10.1037/cou0000668

Yosso, T. J. (2005). Whose culture has capital? A critical race theory discussion of community cultural wealth. Race, Ethnicity and Education, 8(1), 69-91. https://doi.org/10.1080/136133205200

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 15

No - 10

Hasn’t tried it - 1

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