15 MAY 2024 · In the second part, Lisa explores San José State University's role in shaping the Silicon Valley workforce with Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson. Given the university's proximity to tech innovators, Lisa asks how technology can enhance educational access, equity, and scalability. Dr. Teniente-Matson elaborates on how this unique positioning fosters access, promotes equity, and nurtures the talent pipeline for the workforce. She shares San José State's strategy to prioritize student-centeredness and student readiness, ensuring graduates have necessary skills and adaptability. Listeners gain insights into how the university bridges academics and industry demands to empower future professionals.

8 MAY 2024 · In the latest episode of the inspiring podcast "They Are Waiting For Us," Lisa welcomes Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, the 31st President of San José State University and a trailblazer in higher education. With over 30 years of experience championing student success, diversity, and experiential learning, Dr. Teniente-Matson shares her remarkable journey, including spearheading growth and earning prestigious designations at Texas A&M University-San Antonio. A passionate advocate, she has served on national boards and delivered inspirational keynotes nationwide. Prepare to be inspired by her vision for empowering students and shaping future leaders through accessible and innovative education.

17 APR 2024 · In the second half of the episode, Lesley Slaton Brown dives deeper into her pioneering work in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space. She talks about the first steps to creating a diversity, equity, and inclusion program, sharing invaluable insights for organizations looking to embark on this critical journey. Lesley walks listeners through the key milestones and experiences that have shaped her own trailblazing career journey so far. From her early days at college to her rise as a nationally recognized DEI strategist and consultant, Lesley reflects on the defining moments that fueled her passion for this work. Her personal stories highlight the obstacles she has faced as a leader and how she has turned challenges into opportunities to drive meaningful change. This is a must-listen for anyone committed to doing the vital work of creating equitable, inclusive environments where all people can thrive. Lesley's wisdom leaves listeners empowered to be agents of positive change in their own lives and communities.

10 APR 2024 · This week, Lisa is joined by Lesley Slaton Brown, the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the National Basketball Association. Lesley is a true trailblazer in the DEI space, implementing robust processes to drive belonging and opportunity across the NBA. Renowned as one of the Most Powerful Women in Corporate Diversity, a Top Influential Woman in Corporate America, and the Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year, Lesley is an inspiring leader paving the way for positive change. Lisa and Lesley delve into her groundbreaking work at the NBA to foster a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. They discuss the challenges and successes of effecting meaningful cultural transformation within a major sports league. Lesley shares her insights on creating authentic accountability, amplifying underrepresented voices, and ensuring DEI is truly embedded into an organization's DNA. It's an empowering conversation that will inspire listeners to be forces for positive change in their own spheres of influence.

20 MAR 2024 · In the second half of her discussion with California State Senator John Laird, Lisa dives deeper into critical issues facing the state's education system. The conversation turns to the challenges of ensuring access to technology for all students across California's diverse school districts. Laird, drawing upon his decades of experience in public service, provides insights into the major barriers and potential solutions for providing equal access to digital resources - a necessity for today's learners. With his unique perspective shaped by being raised by educators, Laird weighs in candidly on the uphill battle to increase education funding for California's state-funded school districts. He analyzes the complex political landscape and entrenched obstacles that have long stymied efforts to direct more funding to schools serving communities with the greatest needs. This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of public education in the state. Lisa Andrew facilitates a probing dialogue that pulls no punches in examining these fundamental issues.

13 MAR 2024 · This week on They Are Waiting For Us, Lisa Andrew welcomes California State Senator John Laird to the show. Senator Laird has spent over two decades dedicated to public service in the state of California. Raised in Vallejo by parents who were teachers, Laird's commitment to his community took root from an early age. After serving nine years on the Santa Cruz City Council, including two terms as one of the first openly gay mayors in the United States during the 1980s, Laird went on to the State Assembly. During his three terms there, he authored an impressive 82 bills that were ultimately signed into law. Now representing California's 17th District in the State Senate, Laird continues his lifelong work of fighting for the people of California. In this candid interview, he discusses his upbringing, the obstacles he faced, and the hard-won victories that have marked his trailblazing career in public service. Laird provides a fascinating perspective from the frontlines of California politics, spanning multiple decades of progress and change.

14 FEB 2024 · In the episode's second part, Dr. Kirst talks about the lack of innovation in education and provides his expert perspective on why education has been so slow to embrace new ideas and technologies compared to other sectors. Lisa and Michael discuss the critical topic of education funding. Governor Newsom recently released his 2024–2025 budget proposal for California. Despite facing a major state funding deficit, he has proposed not cutting K–12 education funding. Dr. Kirst shares his understanding of the governor's position on protecting education funding amidst the difficult budget environment. Tune in to hear Dr. Kirst's insights on the complexities around education funding and policy, including an analysis of trends over his decades of experience in California politics and educational leadership. About Michael Kirst: The longest-serving President of the California State Board of Education with his second and final term from 2011 to 2019; Stanford Emeritus Professor of Education (and Business Administration by courtesy) Affiliated Faculty, Political Science, Michael W. Kirst is Professor Emeritus of Education and Business Administration at Stanford University. In 2011, Kirst became the President of the California State Board of Education for the second time. Professor Kirst was a member of the California State Board of Education (1975/1982) and its president from 1977 to 1981.Dr. Kirst received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, his M.P.A. in government and economics from Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard.Before joining the Stanford University faculty, Dr. Kirst held several positions with the federal government, including Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Manpower, Employment and Poverty, and Director of Program Planning and Evaluation for the Bureau of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Office of Education (now the U.S. Department of Education). He was a Budget Examiner in the Federal office of Budget and Management, and Associate Director of the White House Fellows. He was a program analyst for the Title I ESEA Program at its inception in 1965.Dr. Kirst is active in several professional organizations. He was a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences. He has been a member of the National Academy of Education since 1979. He was Vice President of the American Educational Research Association and a commissioner of the Education Commission of the States. Kirst co-founded Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE).A prolific writer, Dr. Kirst has authored ten books, including The Political Dynamics of American Education (2009). As a policy generalist, Professor Kirst has published articles on school finance politics, curriculum politics, intergovernmental relations, as well as education reform policies.His recent book, From High School to College (2004), concerns improving student preparation for success in postsecondary education. His latest books are Remaking College: The Changing Ecology of Higher Education, (2015 with Mitchell Stevens), and Higher Education and Silicon Valley: Connected But Conflicted (2017) with Richard Scott.

7 FEB 2024 · Michael Kirst joins Lisa on this week's episode of "They Are Waiting for Us." Dr. Kirst brings over six decades of invaluable expertise and insight, having served as the longest-running President of the California State Board of Education. In addition to his pioneering work helping shape education policy for the state of California, Dr. Kirst has had an illustrious career as a professor at Stanford University. With high-level experience across academia, government, and policy research, Dr. Kirst offers a unique bird's-eye perspective on education's challenges and opportunities. Tune in as Dr. Andrew and Dr. Kirst have an engaging discussion providing key insights into the past, present, and future of education. About Michael Kirst: The longest-serving President of the California State Board of Education with his second and final term from 2011 to 2019; Stanford Emeritus Professor of Education (and Business Administration by courtesy) Affiliated Faculty, Political Science, Michael W. Kirst is Professor Emeritus of Education and Business Administration at Stanford University. In 2011, Kirst became the President of the California State Board of Education for the second time. Professor Kirst was a member of the California State Board of Education (1975/1982) and its president from 1977 to 1981.Dr. Kirst received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, his M.P.A. in government and economics from Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard.Before joining the Stanford University faculty, Dr. Kirst held several positions with the federal government, including Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Manpower, Employment and Poverty, and Director of Program Planning and Evaluation for the Bureau of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Office of Education (now the U.S. Department of Education). He was a Budget Examiner in the Federal office of Budget and Management, and Associate Director of the White House Fellows. He was a program analyst for the Title I ESEA Program at its inception in 1965.Dr. Kirst is active in several professional organizations. He was a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences. He has been a member of the National Academy of Education since 1979. He was Vice President of the American Educational Research Association and a commissioner of the Education Commission of the States. Kirst co-founded Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE).A prolific writer, Dr. Kirst has authored ten books, including The Political Dynamics of American Education (2009). As a policy generalist, Professor Kirst has published articles on school finance politics, curriculum politics, intergovernmental relations, as well as education reform policies.His recent book, From High School to College (2004), concerns improving student preparation for success in postsecondary education. His latest books are Remaking College: The Changing Ecology of Higher Education, (2015 with Mitchell Stevens), and Higher Education and Silicon Valley: Connected But Conflicted (2017) with Richard Scott.

17 JAN 2024 · In part two of their conversation, Chandra discusses what she hopes to achieve in her important work empowering communities. She shares her vision for the legacy she wants to leave behind after her impactful career driving progressive change. Chandra also dives deeper into the mission of Community Action Marin, the organization she has led since 2018. Tune in to hear Chandra's aspirations for the future, the lasting change she aims to create, and how Community Action Marin works each day to promote equity, justice, and inclusion for all.

10 JAN 2024 · This week, Lisa welcomes Chandra Alexandre to They Are Waiting For Us. Chandra is a true champion and visionary for social justice. As the CEO of Community Action Marin since 2018, she has over 25 years of experience empowering organizations and communities. In a world that needs more justice, equity, and inclusion, Chandra Alexandre stands out as a thoughtful and compassionate leader dedicated to community empowerment and progressive change. Tune in to hear Chandra's inspiring story and perspectives on how we can build a more just and equitable society.