Category: Education Insight Podcast

  • Education Insight: How Young Leaders are Shaped by Mentorship and Publishing Their Own Books

    Education Insight: How Young Leaders are Shaped by Mentorship and Publishing Their Own Books

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 17.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we are joined by Roy Juarez, an award-winning speaker, activist, entrepreneur, and the founder of a unique leadership program that is making waves in California schools. Roy discusses the creation and mission behind his program, which focuses on empowering students, particularly those who have previously been overlooked as potential leaders.

    Roy talks about the core values of his program and what he believes are the most important qualities young people need to develop in order to become effective leaders. He also shares how his program, which includes 12 modules, helps students learn and grow through a combination of real-world experiences and personal reflection. One of the most unique aspects of the program is the involvement of prominent speakers—ranging from actors and athletes to authors and musicians—who mentor and motivate students, offering invaluable guidance and inspiration.

    In addition to leadership development, Roy’s program offers students the chance to author and publish their own books, an achievement that not only builds their confidence but also gives them a tangible reminder of their accomplishments. Roy reflects on how this initiative helps students leave high school not only with leadership skills but also with the pride of becoming published authors.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership development, mentorship, and how programs like Roy’s are transforming the lives of students across California. Tune in to hear about the powerful ways leadership, self-confidence, and personal growth are being cultivated in young people who are poised to become tomorrow’s leaders.

    Featured Guest

    Roy Juarez, Jr. 
    Chief Executive Officer, IMPACTTruth

    Roy Juarez Jr. founded the human development company IMPACTtruth, Inc. in 2005 with a dream to inspire youth and reunite families by sharing his turbulent yet inspirational life story. 

    Juarez has partnered with national organizations such as the U.S. ARMY, Ford Motor Company Fund, and the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute to inspire thousands of individuals across the United States and abroad. His work has garnered national media attention on CNN, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and many local and online publications.

    In 2018, Juarez published his highly anticipated book, Homeless by Choice: A Memoir of Love, Hate, and Forgiveness. This riveting memoir journeys through Roy’s decision to live homeless again, but this time, Homeless by Choice. His mission was to inspire youth to never give up on life and their dreams and for them to understand the power of higher education.

    Juarez’s story began on the Southside of San Antonio, Texas, where he faced dangerous situations and obstacles that could have turned him into a negative statistic. At the age of fourteen, due to domestic violence, Juarez became a high school dropout and one of the hundreds of homeless youth on the streets of San Antonio. Carrying with him only a duffle bag of personal items that he called home, Juarez moved from house to house to survive. However, thanks to the mentors and educators who noticed the invisible student along the way, Juarez was able to return to high school as a third-year freshman, graduating in 2000. He then went on to study Business Administration at Hardin-Simmons University and graduated in 2009.

    Juarez fought the battle to leave the streets only to return to them as an activist after finishing college. Through his work, Juarez has shared his message with over one million in 48 states and seven countries. 

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: From Spelling Bees to College Degrees: Stories of Young Achievers

    Education Insight: From Spelling Bees to College Degrees: Stories of Young Achievers

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 16.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we spotlight two incredible young girls who are making their mark in education. Alisa Perales, at just 10 years old, has already earned two associate degrees in mathematics and science from Crafton Hills College, and is on a path to change the future for herself and others. Alongside her, we introduce Victoria Li, a 6th grader from Riverside County who recently won the 47th Annual Riverside County Spelling Bee and is headed to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Maryland this May. These two young scholars exemplify the power of perseverance, support, and the importance of education.

    While we celebrate their achievements, it’s essential to acknowledge the broader picture: worldwide, 122 million girls are still not in school, primarily due to challenges like poverty, conflict, and restrictive cultural norms. This episode serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the work still needed to ensure every girl around the world has access to the education she deserves.

    Join us as we hear from Alisa and Victoria about their journeys, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the aspirations they have for the future. This conversation underscores the importance of nurturing and empowering young girls to thrive academically, no matter the odds.

    Featured Guest

    Victoria Li
    6th grader at the Philistine Rondo School of Discovery in Riverside County, and the Champion of the 47th Annual Riverside County Spelling Bee
    Jacqui Dobens is the founder and head cheerleader of Much More Than Mentorship. Living up to its name, they have a robust staff of presenters and mentors spanning various industries and interests. A few of the presenters on the roster include a newly retired math professor (city and state), LMFT, forensic scientist, and even an improv instructor. Their programs are tailor-made using their mainstay of modules as a launching pad for customization. Programs include etiquette, communication, critical thinking, empathy, and much more.
    Dobens has taken her years of experience in marketing, networking, generating revenue, and holding leadership positions in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors to toggle seamlessly in this project. Her networking skills are at the forefront by way of collaboration with various entities to make this project a success.
    Her ability to adapt and pivot enabled her to recognize the benefits of The Amazing Shake through her relationship with San Gorgonio Middle School and the Beaumont Unified School District. Being such an instrumental component of the national durable life skills competition of The Amazing Shake has proven to be life-changing. Not only for the students, but for Dobens herself. To date,  She has been asked to fulfill the role as a project manager to bring The Amazing Shake program to life for other schools in surrounding cities and districts. This opportunity will provide a tremendous positive impact to students and communities that will last for decades to come.
    When Dobens is not cooking up a new module or thinking up ways to implement creative and fun ways to bring durable life skills to life with the students, you can find her in the kitchen cooking up new and daring culinary concoctions and sharing them with family and friends.
    Alisa Perales
    10-year-old student at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California
    Jacqui Dobens is the founder and head cheerleader of Much More Than Mentorship. Living up to its name, they have a robust staff of presenters and mentors spanning various industries and interests. A few of the presenters on the roster include a newly retired math professor (city and state), LMFT, forensic scientist, and even an improv instructor. Their programs are tailor-made using their mainstay of modules as a launching pad for customization. Programs include etiquette, communication, critical thinking, empathy, and much more.
    Dobens has taken her years of experience in marketing, networking, generating revenue, and holding leadership positions in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors to toggle seamlessly in this project. Her networking skills are at the forefront by way of collaboration with various entities to make this project a success.
    Her ability to adapt and pivot enabled her to recognize the benefits of The Amazing Shake through her relationship with San Gorgonio Middle School and the Beaumont Unified School District. Being such an instrumental component of the national durable life skills competition of The Amazing Shake has proven to be life-changing. Not only for the students, but for Dobens herself. To date,  She has been asked to fulfill the role as a project manager to bring The Amazing Shake program to life for other schools in surrounding cities and districts. This opportunity will provide a tremendous positive impact to students and communities that will last for decades to come.
    When Dobens is not cooking up a new module or thinking up ways to implement creative and fun ways to bring durable life skills to life with the students, you can find her in the kitchen cooking up new and daring culinary concoctions and sharing them with family and friends.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: California’s Effort to Teach Soft Skills to Middle Schoolers

    Education Insight: California’s Effort to Teach Soft Skills to Middle Schoolers

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 15.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we’re joined by Jacqui Dobens, founder of Much More Than Mentorship and Prep Team Director for The Amazing Shake, a competition held at San Gorgonio Middle School in Beaumont, CA. The Amazing Shake is an intense two-day event where middle school students compete in various soft skills challenges, such as giving a firm handshake, diffusing angry customers, interviewing for a job, and navigating social situations gracefully.

    Jacqui explains how the competition aims to teach kids essential life skills beyond academics, focusing on qualities like public speaking, empathy, and emotional intelligence. With an impressive roster of mentors, from retired fire chiefs to etiquette experts, the program offers students unique opportunities to learn from professionals in a hands-on setting. Jacqui also shares stories of students who have gone from nervous to natural in just a few sessions, showing the transformative impact of these exercises.

    Tune in to hear Jacqui’s insights on how The Amazing Shake is reshaping education and mentorship, preparing students for real-world success. You’ll also learn how schools across Southern California can get involved in this powerful program that’s helping students build the confidence and skills they need for the future.

    Featured Guest

    Jacqui Dobens
    Founder, Much More Than Mentorship and Prep Team for The Amazing Shake, San Gorgonio Middle School
    Jacqui Dobens is the founder and head cheerleader of Much More Than Mentorship. Living up to its name, they have a robust staff of presenters and mentors spanning various industries and interests. A few of the presenters on the roster include a newly retired math professor (city and state), LMFT, forensic scientist, and even an improv instructor. Their programs are tailor-made using their mainstay of modules as a launching pad for customization. Programs include etiquette, communication, critical thinking, empathy, and much more.
    Dobens has taken her years of experience in marketing, networking, generating revenue, and holding leadership positions in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors to toggle seamlessly in this project. Her networking skills are at the forefront by way of collaboration with various entities to make this project a success.
    Her ability to adapt and pivot enabled her to recognize the benefits of The Amazing Shake through her relationship with San Gorgonio Middle School and the Beaumont Unified School District. Being such an instrumental component of the national durable life skills competition of The Amazing Shake has proven to be life-changing. Not only for the students, but for Dobens herself. To date,  She has been asked to fulfill the role as a project manager to bring The Amazing Shake program to life for other schools in surrounding cities and districts. This opportunity will provide a tremendous positive impact to students and communities that will last for decades to come.
    When Dobens is not cooking up a new module or thinking up ways to implement creative and fun ways to bring durable life skills to life with the students, you can find her in the kitchen cooking up new and daring culinary concoctions and sharing them with family and friends.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Childhelp’s Mission to Protect Kids in Every Classroom

    Education Insight: Childhelp’s Mission to Protect Kids in Every Classroom

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 14.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we welcome Michael Medoro, the Chief Operating Officer of Childhelp U.S.A., to explore the Speak Up Be Safe curriculum, a powerful program created to help children stay safe from predators and bullies. Michael takes us through the story behind the creation of the curriculum and explains why it’s so crucial for kids to learn these important lessons at such a young age.

    The curriculum, which is now being used in classrooms across the country and beyond, teaches children how to recognize and respond to various forms of abuse, including the dangers of online bullying. Michael shares the strategies used by facilitators to ensure children feel safe discussing tough topics and how the program fosters a supportive environment where kids learn to stand up for themselves and support each other.

    We also dive into the role parents and caregivers play in reinforcing these lessons at home, as well as the ongoing concerns related to bullying and online safety. Michael also shares a powerful story of how Speak Up Be Safe made a real difference in a child’s life.

    Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on this impactful program and the work Childhelp is doing to protect children everywhere. For more information on how to acquire the Speak Up Be Safe curriculum, Michael offers insights on where listeners can find resources for their schools and communities.

    Featured Guest

    Michael Medoro
    Chief Operating Officer with Childhelp U.S.A.

    Experienced Nonprofit Executive Officer achieving remarkable results in the national and international nonprofit sector. Over $500+M raised. Successful projects globally in youth development, education, and healthcare throughout the United States, Africa, Europe, and Central America. Seasoned professional in high net worth fundraising and revenue development. MBA in Global Management, MA in Digital Education, and actively earning a Doctorate in Education. Strong executive skills in Nonprofit Management, Business Planning, Strategic Planning, Fundraising and Revenue Development, Executive Management Coaching, Event Management, and Team Development. Nationally and internationally recognized Fundraiser and Motivational Speaker.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Empowering Students with Disabilities to Thrive Academically

    Education Insight: Empowering Students with Disabilities to Thrive Academically

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 13.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we explore the incredible journey of students with disabilities who thrive despite the challenges they face in their educational environments. We discuss the importance of specialized programs that empower these students to succeed academically, socially, and personally. Through the lens of La Quinta High School student Amber Trieu, who has been overcoming her hearing disability to excel as a top student and a budding culinary artist, we gain insight into how these programs provide the support needed to help disabled students reach their full potential.

    Amber, who has maintained a 4.3 GPA, is an athlete, and a champion in the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America competition, is a prime example of how determination and support can lead to success. She joins us to discuss how she has excelled despite her hearing impairment and the crucial role that her school’s programs have played in her academic and personal growth.

    We also hear from Anne Pruett, Special Education Teacher for Deaf/Hard of Hearing students at the Riverside County Office of Education, and Dena Slocum, Principal for RCOE programs assisting students with visual impairments, orthopedic impairments, and other special needs. Anne and Dena share their insights on how tailored educational services—such as auditory-oral programs, adaptive physical education, and other specialized resources—help students overcome their challenges and thrive in school.

    Tune in to hear more about the ways school programs are paving the way for students with disabilities to excel in education and beyond. Amber’s story, along with the expertise of Anne and Dena, highlights the power of resilience, support, and determination in creating an inclusive educational environment.

    Featured Guest

    Anne Pruett

    Teacher, Amelia Earhart Elementary in Indio 

    Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.

    His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.

    He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.

    He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.

    Dena Slocum
     RCOE Principal for programs assisting visually impaired, Deaf/Hard of hearing, ADAPTIVE PHYS EDUCATION, and Orthopedic Impairment programs

    Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.

    His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.

    He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.

    He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.

    Amber Trieu

    Student, La Quinta High School

    Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.

    His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.

    He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.

    He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.