The DEI Challenge: Marybeth Gasman of Rutgers

Laura discusses the impacts of recent executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives with Dr. Marybeth Gasman, Director of the Center for Minority Serving Institutions at Rutgers University. Dr. Gasman shares the challenges faced by her center following an executive order that resulted in the cancellation of a virtual conference on registered apprenticeships. She emphasizes the importance of proper crisis management, effective communication, and strategic funding to navigate such disruptions. Additionally, Dr. Gasman highlights the center’s dedication to supporting minority-serving institutions and their innovative programs, including a new research and innovation fellowship aimed at tackling community issues. The conversation also touches on the personal and professional impacts of these challenges, reinforcing the need for leadership training and resilience in academia.

 

To connect with Dr. De Veau’s Guest, Dr. Gasman: https://gse.rutgers.edu/faculty/marybeth-gasman/ 

To learn more about the Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions: https://cmsi.gse.rutgers.edu/ 

To connect with Dr. De Veau and learn more about her Substack, her book and more: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain 

 

Topics

00:51 Meet Dr. Marybeth Gasman

01:07 Impact of Executive Orders on DEI Initiatives

02:38 Navigating Professional and Ethical Travel Choices

02:47 Exploring Philadelphia's Culinary Scene

04:32 Introduction to the Center for Minority Serving Institutions

06:13 Challenges and Successes of the Center

09:12 The Canceled Conference: Background and Impact

14:55 Misunderstandings and Media Reactions

24:15 Engaging with Social Media

24:47 Facing Criticism from the Left

26:13 Advice on Handling Executive Orders

27:42 Crisis Communication Strategies

29:53 Leadership and Crisis Management

30:57 Funding and Budgeting in Higher Ed

33:16 Training and Support for Leaders

35:48 Challenges in Academic Leadership

41:19 Rutgers' Approach to Center Reviews

43:55 Looking Forward: Exciting Projects

45:39 Closing Remarks and Contact Information