Dear Community,
I hope you had a wonderful summer!
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion spent our summer identifying how we continue to foster community building and institution-wide capacity building that advances inclusive learning, innovation and leadership development. This has meant broadening partnerships and collaborations and developing new initiatives. One example of this work is the new Institute for Inclusive Innovation (I-3) for students.
Meeting the goals of N2025 to build Nebraska partnerships and innovate student experiences, I-3 is a leadership cohort that empowers sophomores and juniors from across disciplines to hone their cultural intelligence, leadership prowess, and innovative thinking. Students will have the opportunity to complete an innovation project with a Nebraska or regional industry partner or community agency. We are looking forward to engaging the inaugural cohort of 22 student leaders selected for the program.
Other student leaders making an impact include Michelle Garcia–Barillas. Michelle shared that language was a barrier for her Spanish-speaking family until meeting their bilingual NSE leader, Carlos. Now, as an NSE leader, Michelle uses her bilingual skills to welcome families and create a more inclusive experience. Brock Mason, a member of the Business Honors Academy, the Marching Band, and Pride in Business, exemplifies how Huskers can forge connections across diverse organizations, inspiring them to explore their interests and affirming they belong in any and every space.
As we continue our own leadership journeys, I hope we remain inspired by the stories of our students and colleagues and driven to be innovative, inclusive, and brave leaders. Brene Brown stated, “A brave leader is someone who says I see you. I hear you. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m going to keep listening and asking questions.”
In anticipation of the fall semester and growing, unpredictable election cycle, let us remember to listen and ask questions—and be willing to stretch and learn from the answers. This is how we live every person and every interaction mattering and truly be the leaders that Huskers and all of humankind are expected to be.
Lead on.
Marco Barker, PhD
Vice Chancellor