DECEMBER 2023
A Tapestry of Transformation
Dearreaders,
In2023,theeducationlandscapeunderwenttransformativeshifts.Technological advancements,markedbyAI-drivenpersonalizationandimmersivelearning,reshaped traditionalmodels.Thesurgeinlifelonglearningreflectedtheimperativeofadaptingto automationanddynamiccareerdemands.Micro-credentialsemergedasapopularchoice forpreciseupskillingandreskilling.
Despiteprogress,persistentchallengesincludedlingeringequitygapsandagrowingneed toaddressthementalwell-beingofbothstudentsandeducators,emphasizingthe importanceoffosteringaninclusiveandsupportiveeducationalenvironment.
Inthistapestryoftransformation,someindividualsshineasthreadsofinspiration.Weare thrilledtoannounceourlatestmagazineissuewhereweputaspotlighton“The10 RemarkableEducationLeadersofDecember2023”whomadethismonthamonthof progress.Readabouttheirdiverseachievements,fromforginginnovativelearningmodels tochampioninginclusivityandadvocatingforunderprivilegedcommunities.These leadersofferusaglimpseintothefutureofeducation,wherepassion,resilience,anda commitmenttoequitypavethewayforabrightertomorrow.
StealingthespotlightinthismagazineistheremarkableDr TracyWest,thePresidentand CEOoftheUniversityofAntelopeValley Withadynamicandpassionateleadershipstyle honedoverthreedecades,Dr West’sacademicjourneyunderscoresherunwavering commitmenttopersonalandprofessionaldevelopment.Asafirst-generationcollege student,shewasinspiredbyinfluentialmentors,fuelinghermissiontocreate opportunitiesforstudents,particularlythosefacingdisadvantages.
InadditiontoshowcasingtheexceptionalDr.TracyWest,thismagazinealsohighlights otherdistinguishedfiguresintheeducationrealm,includingBradleyJ.Cook,James Gaudino,Dr AndrewHugine,Jr.,andDr.JackHawkinsJr.Eachluminarybringsaunique perspectiveandsignificantcontributionstotheevolvinglandscapeofeducation,enriching thecontentwithdiverseinsightsandexperiencesfromtheseinfluentialleaders.
HappyReading!
Tejas Tahmankar Project Editor
From The Editor’s Desk
People Behind This Issue
Publisher: Archana Ghule
Editor–in–Chief: Vikram Suryawanshi
Managing Editor: Pankaj Gholap
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DR. TRACY WEST
Bradley J. Cook www.snow.edu
Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr. www.aamu.edu
Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr. www.troy.edu
Dr. Mindy Smith www.mindysmith@ucwv.edu
Dr. Timothy Mottet www.csupueblo.edu
Dr. Tracy West www.uav.edu
James Gaudino www.cwu.edu
Shalini Randeria www.ceu.edu
Kimberly Cline www.liu.edu
Tadanori Nagasawa www.musabi.ac.jp
Dr. Tracy West Catalyst for Change in Academia
Cover Story
Dr.TracyWest(PresidentandCEO,University
ofAntelopeValley)isadynamicandpassionate leaderwithoverthreedecadesofexperiencein educationandleadership.Heracademicjourneyreflectsher dedicationtopersonalandprofessionalgrowth.Guidedby influentialmentorswhorecognizedherpotentialasafirstgenerationcollegestudent,sheembarkedonamissionto opendoorsforstudents,especiallythosefrom disadvantagedbackgrounds.
Throughoutherdistinguishedcareer,Dr TracyWesthas demonstratedanaturaltalentformotivating,nurturing,and developingtalent.Herleadershipstyleisdefinedbyan steadfastcommitmenttohelpingindividualsrealizetheir fullpotentialthroughinspirationandguidance.Dr.West's impressivetrackrecordincludes21internalandthree externalpromotionsduringherremarkable3.5-yeartenure asPresident.
Dr.West’spassionforlearningextendswellbeyondher academicpursuits.Herresearchexpertisefocuseson advancingwomen’sequalityandempowermentinthe workplace,alongwithfacilitatingcareermobilityforall. Herdedicationtothesuccessofherstudentsandthoseshe leadsisattheheartofherdailywork.
Inadditiontoherleadershipprowess,Dr TracyWestis renownedforherexpertiseinacademicadvising,coaching, mentoring,andasamotivationalspeakerandcertified diversitytrainer.Herinfluentialandpositivedemeanorand collaborativeapproachtoachievingorganizationalgoals positionherasanexceptionalforceineducational leadership.Dr West’slifelongdedicationtonurturing growthandcreatingopportunitiesforothersdistinguishes herasaninspirationalfigureinacademia.
ComprehensiveLeadershipandOversight
Dr TracyWestservesasthePresidentoftheUniversityof AntelopeValley,aroleofparamountimportance encompassingawidearrayofresponsibilitiesand leadershipfunctions.AstheChiefExecutiveOfficer,she bearstheoverarchingresponsibilityfortheentire institution’ssuccess,ensuringitsoverallwell-being.
Atthecoreofherroleisprovidingvisionaryleadershipand comprehensiveoversightacrossallaspectsofthe university,includingacademics,finance,strategicplanning, studentaffairs,enrollmentmanagement,advancement initiatives,andathletics.Dr West’sleadershipextendsto
keyareas,withleadersinFinance,Operations,Academics, Enrollment,andAthleticsreportingdirectlytoher
Oneofherprincipalresponsibilitiesisguidingtheplanning, development,implementation,assessment,andcontinuous improvementofallacademicprogramsandpolicies. Collaboratingcloselywithacademicleadersandthe leadershipteam,Dr.Westplaysacrucialroleinfostering academicexcellenceandexpandingthecurriculumtomeet evolvingstudentneeds.
Beyondadministrativeduties,Dr Westleadsaculturalshift withintheuniversity,emphasizingastudent-centric approachandacommitmenttoexcellence.Leadingby personalexample,shehasinstitutedanopen-doorpolicy, ensuringthatstudentstakecenterstageintheinstitution’s mission.
Furthermore,Dr Westactivelyparticipatesinpolicyand procedurereviewandrevisiontoenhancethestudent experience.Herfocusonattractingandretainingtoptalent
contributessignificantlytotheinstitution’sgrowthand success.Sheinvestsinmarketingresourcestoattract studentsandenhancesacademicqualitytopromotestudent retentionandacademicexcellence.
EmpoweringEducation,StudentSuccess,and Inclusivity
TheUniversityofAntelopeValleyisanexceptional institutiondeeplycommittedtoitscommunity.Established 26yearsagowiththenoblemissionofimpartinglife-saving CPRskillstoindividualsinthecommunity,theuniversity hassincetransformedintoacomprehensiveeducational centerofferingadiversearrayofacademicprogramsand courses.
Theuniversityofferscertificateprogramsinculinaryarts, medicalbillingandcoding,medicalassistance,andmassage therapyattheundergraduatelevel.Theseprogramsafford studentstheopportunitytoacquirevaluableskillsandwork experienceinarelativelyshortperiod,typically8–10 months,auniqueofferingfora4-yearuniversity
First, understand and know your purpose. Once you discover that, find a good mentor to help guide you and achieve your goals “
Cover Story
Moreover,theuniversityoffersbachelor’sdegreesin business,psychology,healthandfitness,sports management,criminaljustice,andhealthcaremanagement toindividualsinterestedinpursuingadvanceddegrees. Graduate-levelprogramsincludeanMBAandaMasterof Educationdegree.Additionally,theuniversitycatersto individualsinterestedinemergencymedicalserviceswith programsinParamedicandEmergencyMedical Technician,aswellasVocationalnursing.
WhatdistinguishestheUniversityofAntelopeValleyisits dedicationtostudentoutcomesandcareersuccess.The institutionactivelysupportsstudentsinjobplacementand offerslifelongcareerassistance.Withafaculty-to-student ratioof14:1,studentsbenefitfrompersonalizedattention andsupport,fosteringaconducivelearningenvironment.
Furthermore,theuniversityproudlyparticipatesinthe NAIA(NationalAssociationofIntercollegiateAthletics), offeringsevenathleticsportsforstudentspassionateabout sports.Thisfusionofacademicandathleticopportunities createsawell-roundeduniversityexperience.
TheUniversityofAntelopeValleyembracesdiversity, welcomingstudentsfromacrosstheglobetoitscampus. Withdormitoryfacilities,itcultivatesaclose-knit communitythattreatsstudentsasfamily,fosteringawarm andinclusiveatmosphere.
CatalyzingChange:Dr.TracyWest’sVisionaryImpact attheUniversity
Dr TracyWest’sleadershipattheUniversityofAntelope Valleyexemplifieshersteadfastcommitmenttoreshaping theinstitution’scultureandprioritizingstudentserviceand excellence.Herexampleplaysapivotalroleinthis transformation.Throughheropen-doorpolicyandactive engagementwithstudents,Dr Westsetsapowerful precedentfortheentireuniversitycommunity,fostering trustandtransparencythatmakestudentsfeelvaluedand heard.
AsignificantfacetofDr.West’simpactliesinher dedicationtoreviewingandrevisingpoliciesand procedures.Shecarefullyevaluatesareasforimprovement tobetterservestudents.Thesechangesstreamline administrativeprocessesandplacestudentneedsatthe forefrontofdecision-making.
Inherpursuitofinstitutionalgrowth,Dr Westplacesa strongemphasisonattractingandretainingtoptalent, recognizingthatatalentedanddedicatedfacultyandstaff areessentialforprovidinghigh-qualityeducationand supportservices.Hereffortscontributesignificantlytothe institution’sabilitytodeliverexcellenceineducation.
Moreover,Dr Westacknowledgestheimportanceof effectivemarketinginattractingadiversestudentbody Byprovidingmarketingresources,sheensuresthatthe universitycanreachabroaderaudienceandofferits uniqueprogramstothosewhocanbenefitfromthem.
ImprovingacademicqualityisanothercornerstoneofDr West’sleadership.Sheunderstandsthatthekeyto retainingstudentsliesinprovidingarichandrewarding educationalexperience.Throughstrategicinitiatives,she workstoenhancethecaliberofeducationofferedatthe university.
Dr.West’sinvestmentinfacultymembersisequally significant.Byremovingobstaclesthathindertheirability toservestudentseffectively,sheempowersthemtoexcel intheirroles.Thisempowerment,inturn,resultsina moreimpactfulandengagingclassroomexperiencefor students.
ABeaconofResilienceandInspiration
Throughouthercareerjourney,Dr TracyWesthasfounda rolemodelandasourceofinspirationinhermother.Her mother’slifestoryandsupporthaveprofoundly influencedDr.West’spathtosuccess.
Dr.West’smother,anursewhofacedearlyadversitydue tothelossofbothherparents,demonstratedremarkable resilienceanddetermination.Hertransitionintothe healthcareinsuranceindustryshowcasedheradaptability andexcellenceindiversefields.Whatsethermotherapart wasnotonlyherprofessionalachievementsbutalsoher demeanor—shecarriedherselfwithdignityandpoise, leavinganindelibleimpressiononDr.West.
Aboveallelse,Dr.West’smotherinstilledinherthe importanceofstrengthandthevalueofacollege education.Despiteherinabilitytoattendcollege,she recognizedthetransformationalpotentialofeducation. SheencouragedDr Westtopursuehighereducation, nurturingamindsetofexcellenceinanychosenfield.
AlthoughDr West’smotherdidnothavethechanceto witnessallofherdaughter’ssuccesses,shelaidthe foundationforherjourneyineducationandleadership.Her wisdom,strength,andunwaveringsupportcontinueto influenceDr.West’scareer,servingasaconstantsourceof inspirationassheendeavorstomakeadifferenceinthe livesofothersthroughherworkineducation.
TransformativeImpactofOnlineLearningonModern Education
Dr TracyWesthighlightstheevolvinglandscapeof education,whichgraduallyreshapesstudents’needsover time.Withthegrowingavailabilityandacceptanceof onlinelearning,students’needsandexpectationsare undergoingsignificanttransformations.
Oneofthekeyshiftsistheincreasingdemandfor flexibility.Studentstodayseekeducationaloptionsthat alignwiththeirbusyandoftenvariedschedules.The abilitytoaccessclassesonlinefromanywhereintheworld providesthemwithalevelofflexibilitythatwaspreviously unavailable.Dr Westrecognizesthischangingdynamic andacknowledgesthatstudentsgreatlyvaluethis flexibility
Furthermore,thetransitiontoonlinelearningreflectsa broadertrendintheeducationallandscape.Astechnology continuestoadvance,studentsareincreasinglydrawnto theconvenienceandaccessibilityofonlineeducation.Dr. West’swillingnesstoembracethismodeldemonstratesher commitmenttoadaptingtothesechangingrequirements. Sheunderstandsthatonlinelearningnotonlyexpandsthe university’sreachbutalsoalignswiththeevolvingneeds andpreferencesofmodernstudents.
AddressingRelevanceinAcademicPrograms
Dr TracyWest’sinsightsintothecurrentstateofeducation revealashiftinglandscape,transitioningfromtraditional brick-and-mortarinstitutionstoarapidlygrowing preferenceforonlinelearning.Fromherperspective,this transformationhasraisedseveralnoteworthyissueswithin theeducationsystemthatdemandproactiveresponses.
Firstandforemostamongtheseissuesistheimperativefor educationalinstitutionstoswiftlyadapttotheincreasing demandforonlinelearning.Dr Westrecognizesthatthe
Do not limit what you can achieve. Make sure your dreams are big and then pursue them relentlessly ”
conventionalmodelofin-personeducationnolonger sufficestomeetthediverseneedsofmodernstudents. Thisshiftnecessitatesastrategicandagileapproachto ensurethatstudentshaveaccesstoflexibleand accessibleeducationalservices.
Anothersignificantconcernsheaddressesisthe relevanceofacademicprogramsinadynamicjob market.Dr Westisacutelyawarethatcurriculamust remainalignedwiththeever-changingrequirementsof employers.Toaddressthischallenge,shehasinitiated systematiceffortstoreviewandupdateprogramcontent. Involvingafacultydevelopmentcommittee,sheensures thatthecurriculumremainscurrentandequipsstudents withtheskillsandknowledgeessentialforsuccessin theircareers.
Dr West’sapproachtoeffectingpositivechangesinthe educationsystemismultifaceted.Sherecognizesthe importanceofinvestinginshorter,morefocused certificationprogramsthatallowstudentstoenterthe workforcequickly,aligningwiththeircareeraspirations. Simultaneously,sheemphasizesthenecessityof curriculumreview,aprocessthatengagesfaculty memberstoensurereal-worldrelevance.
GuidingPrinciplesforAspiringEducationalLeaders
Dr TracyWestimpartsinvaluableguidancetoaspiring leadersseekingtomaketheirmarkintheeducational field.Heradviceisgroundedinseveralfoundational principles.
Dr Westemphasizestheimportanceof understandingone’spurpose.She encouragesbuddingleaderstoembark ontheireducationaljourneyswitha clearsenseofmissionanddirection. Knowingwhytheyarepursuinga careerineducationandwhattheyhope toachieveisfundamentalto maintainingfocusandmotivation.
Mentorshipisanothercornerstoneof Dr West’sadvice.Shehighlightsthe valueoffindingamentorwhocan provideguidanceandsupport. Experiencedmentorscanoffer insights,sharewisdom,andhelp navigatethecomplexitiesofthe educationalfield.Theirmentorshipcan beatransformativeforceinthe professionaldevelopmentofaspiring leaders.
Additionally,Dr.Westadvocatesfor thinkingbigandsettingambitious goals.Intherealmofeducation,where thepotentialforpositiveimpactisvast, limitingaspirationscanhinder progress.Toachievemeaningful change,sheencouragesemerging leaderstodreamboldlyandaimhigh throughaudaciousgoals.
Furthermore,Dr Westunderscoresthe importanceofrelentlesspursuit.The educationalfieldmaypresent challengesandobstacles,butshe believesthatunwaveringdetermination iskeytoovercomingthem.Aspiring leadersshouldapproachtheirgoals withperseveranceandresilience,as thesequalitiesareinstrumentalin achievingsuccess.
INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY
IN THE WORKPLACE
Key Strategies for Success!
Canyouimagineaworkenvironmentwhere
companiesexpecttheiremployeesto performtheirbestdespitefacinggender, ethnicity,language,orpersonalchallenges?Itis improbable.Inclusionanddiversityarecrucialinthe workplace,whichiswhytheyplayavitalrole. Althoughawarenessofthisconcepthasexistedfor sometime,itwasn’tuntilthelate1960sthat organizationsbeganactivelyimplementingit.Since then,theoutcomeshaveconsistentlyshown improvement.Ifyouarecuriousaboutthisconcept’s origins,evolution,andcurrentstatus,weinviteyou tositbackandrelaxasweexploretheseaspectsin thisblog.
WhatdoesInclusionandDiversitysignify,and whenandhowdiditbegin?
Inclusionanddiversityintheworkplaceencompass assemblingdiverseindividualswhocollaborate
harmoniouslytowardsasharedobjectivewithout subjectinganyonetodiscriminatorytreatmentthat mayunderminetheirsenseofsecurityandhinder theirproductivitywithinthedesignatedwork environment.Theideawasimplementedinthelate 1960sorearly1970s,althoughpeoplehaddiscussed itbefore.Thevisionarywhopioneeredtheutilization ofthisapproachwasconsiderablyaheadoftheirtime.
Subsequently,officialinitiativeswereundertakenby notableorganizationssuchastheEqualEmployment OpportunityCommission(EEOC)andtheNational OrganizationforWomen(NOW)duringtheeraofthe CivilRightsMovement.
Thoughthepreciseoriginsofthisconceptremain undocumented,thereareindicationsfromhistorical recordsthatitwasgraduallyintroducedwithin organizationalsettings,eachwithitsdistinct approach.
GeneralElectric(GE)-1960-establisheda diversitytaskforcetoaddressworkforcediversity deficiencies.
● IBM-1970-Launched“PeopleofColorin Management”diversityprogram
● Procter&Gamble(P&G)-1980-Initiated“Women inLeadership”diversityprogram.
● AT&T-1990-Introduced“DiversityandInclusion forthe21stCentury”diversityprogram.
Whyisitimportant?
Prioritizinginclusionanddiversityintheworkplacecanyield positiveresultsfororganizations.Astudyconductedby McKinsey&Companyhasrevealedcompellingfindingsthat demonstratethevalueofsuchpractices.Thereportindicates thatthecompaniesinthetopquartilehavea35%higher probabilityofachievingfinancialreturnsthantheirrespective nationalindustrymedians.Moreover,organizationsstrongly committedtoinclusionanddiversityhavereported significantbenefits.
● Approximately70%oftheseorganizationsclaimto attractandretaintop-tiertalentmoreeffectively thantheircounterparts.
● 65%assertthattheyoutperformtheircompetitorsin termsofinnovation.
● 60%oftheorganizationsstatethattheiremployees exhibithigherengagementlevelsthanotherentities.
Furthermore,thereportestablishesacorrelationbetweena firm’sfocusoninclusionanddiversityanditsprofitability. Notably,organizationsrankedinthetopquartileforinclusion anddiversitydisplaya25%greaterlikelihoodofattaining profitabilitythanthoseinthebottomquartile.Thesefindings underlinethecompellingbusinesscaseforprioritizing inclusionanddiversitywithinorganizations.
HowcanyouputInclusionandDiversityinthe WorkplaceintoAction?
Well,therearemanywayshowyoucanimplementthis strategytogrowyourbusiness.Herearesometricksand techniquestoskyrocketyourcurrentresultsintosomething massive.
1. AssessingYourExecutiveTeam
Thecompositionofyourexecutiveteamservesasa significantindicatorofyourentireworkforce,reflectingthe valuesandprinciplesofyourorganization.Itis,therefore, crucialtocultivateadiversetopmanagementteam encompassinggender,ethnicity,sexualorientation,and more.Arebothmenandwomenadequatelyrepresented? Areindividualsfromvariousculturalandreligious backgroundsgivenopportunities?
ThefollowinginfographicshowsthepopulationofFortune 500CEO’s.
Race: Black: 3 White: 497 Other: 1
Source:BostonConsultingGroup
Whileexertingdirectcontroloverthecompositionofyour executiveteammaybelimited,itisimperativethatyou advocatefordiversityandinclusionintheC-suite,should theopportunityarise.Additionally,youcanfosterauthentic andtransparentcommunicationbetweenyourexecutives andemployees,attractingdiversetalentstoyour organization.
2.RecognizingandRespectingDiverseReligiousand CulturalPractices
Establishinganall-encompassingorganizationalculture holdsimmensesignificanceinensuringthesuccessof diversityendeavorsandyieldingsubstantialemployee engagementandproductivitybenefits.Aviableapproachto fosteringinclusivityinvolvesaccordingtoduerecognition andrespectfordiverseholidaysandcelebrations.Forbes recommendsthatorganizationsuseaseparaterefrigeratorto storeKosherfooditems.
Moreover,whilecertaincompaniestraditionallyobserve ChristmasDayasadesignatedholiday,agrowingnumber nowofferflexiblefloatingholidaystoaccommodatethe religiouspreferencesoftheirentireworkforce.Cultivating anenvironmentwhereemployeesperceivetheir organization’scommitmenttodiversityandinclusioncan leadtoenhancedemployeeretention,therebyoffering tangibleadvantagestothecompany
3. InitiatingaDiscussiononGenderPayDisparity
Genderpaydisparityremainsacontroversialissuein numerousorganizations.Establishingtrustandfostering inclusivitywithintheworkforcedependonacompany’s transparencyregardingitspoliciesandeffective communicationaboutthem.Incaseswheregenderpay imbalancesexist,itisessentialtocreateopenchannelsof communicationthatenableemployeestoexpresstheir thoughtsandopinions.
Furthermore,itiscrucialtoarticulatethecompany’scurrent orfuturestrategiesforrectifyingthegap,ensuring employeesfeelreassuredbytheorganization’scommitment toaddressinggenderpayinequalityactively
● Whenpresentingdatarelatedtosuchpolicies,itis imperativetorefrainfromadoptingadefensive stance.
● Whenthedataappearsbiasedduetovariousfactors likedisparitiesbetweenmaternityanduntaken paternityleave,itisvitaltoprovideastraightforward andclearexplanationtoemployees.
4. PromotingInclusiveThinkingforEnhanced Diversity
Byactivelypursuingdiversehiringpractices,yourcompany canfosteraculturethatembracesdiversethinkingandbenefits fromculturallyvariedperspectives.However,achievinglasting impactrequiresmorethanjustassemblingadiverseworkforce; itnecessitatesacomprehensiveapproachtoinclusivity
Itisimportanttoacknowledgethatpeoplefromdifferent backgroundsandagegroupsmayhavedifferingperspectives onworkplaceissuessuchasdresscode,emailetiquette, evaluations,andparticipationinmeetings.Thus,understanding thinkingpatternsisimportantatanindividuallevelandcrucial forteams,departments,andtheentireorganizationto comprehendhowothersfeel.
Byembracingdiversethinking,yourcompanycanharnessa multitudeofideasandreceivevaluablefeedback,allwhile cultivatinganenvironmentwhereeveryonefeelsvaluedand connectedtoasharedmission.
5. EstablishingaMultigenerationalWorkforce: EmbracingDiversityandInclusion
Inthecurrentemploymentlandscape,themillennialgeneration constitutesthepredominantportionoftheworkforce.Creating aninclusiveenvironmentthatvaluesdiversityrequiresbuilding ateamthatwelcomesindividualsfromdifferentagegroups. It’simportanttonotethatpeoplebornfrom1981onward,often viewedastech-savvy,belongtothemillennialgeneration. Consequently,oldermillennialsmaypossessadifferentlevel ofproficiencywithtechnologytoolsthantheiryounger counterparts.
Thisdiscrepancybecomesapparentincommunication practiceswithinorganizations.Someemployeesaremore inclinedtowardsutilizingsocialmediaplatformsorgroupchat functionalities,whileindividualsfromoldergenerationsmay exhibitamorereservedattitudetowardsembracingsuch communicationchannels.
Communicationprofessionalsshouldconsiderinvestingina comprehensiveworkforcecommunicationsplatformtoaddress thisissue.Suchaplatformwouldfacilitatethe
seamlesscreationanddisseminationofmessagesthrough channelspreferredbyemployees.Byadoptingthis approach,communicatorscaneffectivelytailortheir messagestoresonatewithindividualsfromallgenerations andencourageactiveengagement.
Deloitte’sresearchrevealsthatover80%ofmillennials experienceaheightenedsenseofengagementwiththeir workwhentheiremployersfosteragenuinelydiverse workplaceculture.
Howisitgoing,andwhataretheoutcomes?
BasedonasurveyconductedbyDeloitte,asignificant majorityofemployees,amountingto82%,recognizethe significanceofdiversityandinclusionincontributingto theirorganization’soverallsuccess.
Furthermore,theWorldEconomicForumconductedastudy revealingthatcompanieswithdiverseleadershipteamsare moreinclinedtofosterinnovationandyieldgreater profitability.However,thecurrentstateofaffairsinthe UnitedStatesindicatesasubstantialgapbetweenthe workforcecompositionandexecutive-levelpositionsheld bycertaindemographicgroups.
● Women comprise 47% of the workforce but only 24% of executive-level positions.
● Black employees comprise 13% of the workforce but only 6% of executive-level positions.
● Hispanic employees comprise 17% of the workforce but only 4% of executive-level positions.
Source: Boston Consulting Group
BenefitsofDiversity:
● Companieswithdiversemanagementteamshavea 35%higherlikelihoodofachievingfinancial performancethatsurpassestheindustryaverage.
● Diverseteamsaremoreinnovativeandcreative.
● Diverseteamsarebetteratunderstandingand servingcustomersfromdifferentbackgrounds.
Inconclusion,promotinginclusionanddiversityinthe workplaceiscrucialforethicalreasonsandstrategic advantages.Embracingdiverseperspectivesandexperiences
fostersinnovation,employeeengagement,andstronger relationshipswithcustomersandcommunities.By prioritizinginclusivepractices,organizationscreate environmentswhereindividualscanflourishandmake maximumcontributionsdrivingsustainablebusinesssuccess.
FAQ’s
1. Whatisinclusionanddiversityintheworkplace?
Diversityencompassestherangeofdifferencespresent amongindividuals,suchastheirrace,ethnicity,gender, sexualorientation,age,disability,religion,andotherpersonal characteristics.Inclusionreferstothepracticeofcreatinga workplaceenvironmentwhereeveryonefeelswelcomed, respected,andvalued,regardlessoftheirdifferences.
2. HowcanIbeanadvocatefordiversityandinclusion intheworkplace?
Therearemanywaysthatyoucanbeanadvocatefor inclusionanddiversityintheworkplace.Someofthese include:
● Talktoyourcolleaguesabouttheimportanceof diversityandinclusion.
● Speakupwhenyouseeorhearsomething discriminatoryoroffensive.
● Getinvolvedinyourorganization’sdiversityand inclusioninitiatives.
● Supportfororganizationsthatpromotediversityand inclusion
3. Whataresomeresourcesforlearningmoreabout diversityandinclusion?
Thereareanumberofresourcesavailabletohelpyoulearn moreaboutdiversityandinclusion.Someoftheseinclude:
● TheSocietyforHumanResourceManagement (SHRM).SHRMoffersavarietyofresourceson diversityandinclusion,includingarticles,webinars, andtrainingprograms.
● TheDiversityandInclusionCouncil.TheDiversity andInclusionCouncilisanon-profitorganization thatprovidesresourcesandtrainingondiversityand inclusion.
● TheNationalDiversityCouncilisanon-profit organizationthatsupportsdiversityandinclusionin theworkplace.
Didyouknowthattheglobaldronemarket
sizewasvaluedat$33.8billionin2023 andisexpectedtogrowupto56.4billion by2030?Dronesarenotonlyahobbyfor enthusiasts,butalsoapowerfultoolfor professionalsinvariousfields.Whetheryouarean engineer,aphotographer,oravideographer,you canusedronestoenhanceyourprojectsand achieveamazingresults.Buthowdoyouchoose therighttypesofdronesforyourproject?
Dronesareflyingmachinesthatcanbecontrolled remotelyorflyautonomouslywithsoftwareand sensors.Theycanbeusedforvariouspurposes, suchasaerialphotography,engineering, agriculture,andentertainment.However,notall dronesarethesame.Dependingonyourproject, youmayneeddifferenttypesofdronesthatsuit yourneedsandbudget.Inthisblogpost,wewill guideyouthroughtheprocessofchoosingtheright typesofdronesforyourproject,whetheryouare anengineer,aphotographer,oravideographer
First,wewillexplainwhydronesareusefulfor differentprojectsandwhatfactorsyoushould considerwhenchoosingadrone,suchassize, weight,batterylife,cameraquality,flightrange, andspeed.Next,wewillprovideabriefoverview ofthemaintypesofdronesandtheiradvantages anddisadvantages,suchasfixed-wing,rotarywing,hybrid,andmultirotordrones.Finally,we willgiveyousometipsandrecommendationson
howtofindthebestdroneforyourprojectandwheretobuyit.
Bytheendofthisblogpost,youwillhaveaclearideaofwhat typesofdronesarebestforyourprojectandhowtogetstarted withthem.
Let’stakeoffandexplorethe3Typesofdrones!
1.Fixed-WingDrones
Fixed-wingdronesareoneofthetypesofdronesthathavea rigidwingstructureandrelyonforwardthrusttogeneratelift. Thesedroneslooklikeminiatureairplanesandcanflyforlong distancesanddurations.Theyareusuallypoweredbygasor electricmotorsandhaveahigh-speedrangeofupto150km/h. Theycancarryheavypayloadsandhaveahigh-resolution cameramountedonthenoseorthebelly.
However,fixed-wingdronesalsohavesomedrawbacks.They areexpensiveandrequirealargespacefortakeoffandlanding. Theyarenotveryagileandcannothoverorflybackward. Subsequently,theyarealsonoisyandmayattractunwanted attention.Theyarenotsuitableforindoororurban environmentsandmayrequirealicensetooperate.
Pros:Longflighttimeandrange,heavypayloadcapacity,high imagequalityandresolution.
Cons:Highcost,largespacerequirement,lowmaneuverability, noise,licenserequirement.
Fixed-wingdronesarebestforprojectsthatrequirelarge-scale mapping,surveying,ormonitoringofremoteareas.For
example,fixed-wingdroneshavebeenusedtomapthe Amazonrainforest,surveytheGreatBarrierReef,and monitorwildlifepopulations.Fixed-wingdronesareideal fortheseprojectsbecausetheycancoveralargeareaina shorttimeandprovidehigh-qualityimages.
Someofthebestbrandsandmodelsoffixed-wing dronesare:
SenseFlyeBeeX
Thisisaprofessionalmappingdronethatcanflyforupto 90minutesandcoverupto500hectaresinasingleflight. Ithasa24MPcameraandcancaptureimageswitha groundresolutionofupto1.5cm.Additionally,italsohas amultispectralsensorandathermalcameraforadvanced applications.Itiseasytouseandhasafullyautomated flightandlandingsystem.
ParrotDisco-ProAG
Thisisanagriculturaldronethatcanflyforupto30 minutesandcoverupto80hectaresinasingleflight.It hasa14MPcameraandamultispectralsensorthatcan measurethehealthandvitalityofcrops.ItalsohasGPS andflightplanningsoftwarethatcanoptimizetheflight pathandthedatacollection.
WingtraOne
Thisisahybriddronethatcombinesthefeaturesoffixedwingandrotary-wingdrones.Itcantakeoffandland verticallylikeahelicopterandflyhorizontallylikeaplane. Itcanflyforupto55minutesandcoverupto400hectares inasingleflight.Inadditiontothat,ithasa42MPcamera andcancaptureimageswithagroundresolutionofupto 0.7cm.Italsohasavarietyofsensorsandcamerasfor differentapplications.
2.Rotary-WingDrones
Rotary-wingdronesaredronesthathaveoneormore rotorsthatspintogenerateliftandthrust.Theylooklike miniaturehelicoptersandcanflyinanydirectionand hoverinplace.Theyareusuallypoweredbyelectric batteriesandhavealow-speedrangeofupto50km/h. Also,theycancarrylightpayloadsandhaveacamera mountedonagimbalforstabilizationandrotation.
Rotary-wingdroneshavesomeadvantagesoverfixed-wing drones.Theyarecheaperandeasiertooperateand
maintain.Thesedronescantakeoffandlandinsmallspaces andflyintightspaces.Theyarealsoquieterandless conspicuous.Theycanflyindoorsandinurbanenvironments anddonotrequirealicensetooperate.
However,rotary-wingdronesalsohavesomelimitations. Theyhaveashortflighttimeandrangeandneedtobe rechargedfrequently.Rotary-wingdronesarealsolessstable andmoreaffectedbywindandweatherconditions.They havealowerimagequalityandresolutionandmaysuffer frommotionbluranddistortion.
Pros:Lowcost,easeofuse,highmaneuverability,quietness, nolicenserequirement.
Cons:Shortflighttimeandrange,frequentrecharging,low stability,lowimagequalityandresolution.
Rotary-wingdronesarebestforprojectsthatrequireclose-up inspection,photography,orvideographyofspecificobjectsor areas.Forexample,rotary-wingdroneshavebeenusedto inspectbridges,buildings,andpowerlines,tophotograph andfilmevents,landscapes,andrealestate,andtodeliver goodsandservices.Rotary-wingdronesareidealforthese projectsbecausetheycanflyclosetothetargetandprovidea clearanddetailedview.
Someofthebestbrandsandmodelsofrotary-wing dronesare:
DJIMavic2Pro
DJIMavic2Proisaconsumerdronethatcanflyforupto31 minutesandcoverupto18kminasingleflight.Ithasa20 MPcameraanda1-inchsensorthatcancapture4Kvideoand HDRphotos.Italsohasa3-axisgimbal,anobstacle avoidancesystem,andasmartcontroller Skydio2
Thisisaself-flyingdronethatcanflyforupto23minutes andcoverupto10kminasingleflight.Ithasa12MP cameraanda4Kvideoresolution.Italsohasa3Dmapping system,acollisionavoidancesystem,andatrackingsystem.
AutelRoboticsEVOII
Thisisaprofessionaldronethatcanflyforupto40minutes andcoverupto25kminasingleflight.Ithasa48MP cameraandan8Kvideoresolution.Italsohasa3-axis gimbal,anobstacleavoidancesystem,andaremote controller
3.HybridDrones
Hybriddronesarethetypesofdronesthathavea combinationoffixed-wingandrotary-wingfeatures. Theycanflylikeaplaneorahelicopter,dependingon themode.Itcanalsoswitchbetweenthemodes duringtheflightandhavethebestofbothworlds. Theyareusuallypoweredbyelectricorhybrid enginesandhaveamedium-speedrangeofupto100 km/h.Also,theycancarrymoderatepayloadsand haveacameramountedonagimbalorafixed position.
Hybriddroneshavesomebenefitsoverfixed-wing androtary-wingdrones.Theyhavealongerflight timeandrangethanrotary-wingdronesandahigher maneuverabilityandstabilitythanfixed-wingdrones. Thesedronescanalsotakeoffandlandverticallyand flyhorizontally Theycanadapttodifferent environmentsandsituations.
However,hybriddronesalsohavesomechallenges. Theyarecomplexandexpensivetodesignand manufacture.Hybriddronesalsorequiremoreskill andtrainingtooperateandmaintain.Theymayhave alowerpayloadcapacityandimagequalitythan fixed-wingorrotary-wingdrones.
Pros:Longflighttimeandrange,high maneuverabilityandstability,verticaltakeoffand landing,modeswitching.
Cons:Highcost,complexity,skillrequirement,lower payloadcapacity,andimagequality.
Hybriddronesarebestforprojectsthatrequire versatility,flexibility,andefficiency.Forexample, hybriddroneshavebeenusedtodelivermedical supplies,tomonitortrafficandpollution,andto performsearchandrescuemissions.Hybriddrones areidealfortheseprojectsbecausetheycanflyin differentmodesandadjusttodifferentconditions.
Someofthebestbrandsandmodelsofhybrid dronesare:
deliverittoapreciselocation?Ithasahybridengineanda VTOLsystem.ItalsohasaGPSandaflightmanagement system.
QuantumSystemsTrinityF90+
Thisisasurveyingdronethatcanflyforupto90minutesand coverupto100kminasingleflight.Ithasa20MPcameraand aPPKsystemthatcancaptureaccurategeoreferencedimages. IthasanelectricengineandaVTOLsystem.Inadditiontothat italsohasaGPSandflightplanningsoftware.
ImpossibleAerospaceUS-1
Thisisasurveillancedronethatcanflyforupto120minutes andcoverupto80kminasingleflight.Ithasa36MPcamera anda4Kvideoresolution.Thisdronehasanelectricengineand aVTOLsystem.ItalsohasaGPSandaremotecontroller
Conclusion
Inthisblogpost,wehavelearnedhowtochoosetherighttypes ofdronesforyourproject,whetheryouareanengineer,a photographer,oravideographer Wehavediscussedthe advantagesanddisadvantagesoffixed-wing,rotary-wing,and hybriddrones,andthebestusecasesandbrandsforeachtype. Wehavealsoprovidedsomedataandfactstosupportour claimsandrecommendations.
Choosingtherighttypesofdronesforyourprojectcanmakea hugedifferenceinthequalityandoutcomeofyourwork. Therefore,weadviseyoutoconsiderthefollowingtipsbefore buyingadrone:
Defineyourprojectgoalsandexpectationsclearlyand realistically.
Researchthedifferenttypesofdronesandtheirfeaturesand comparethemwithyourprojectrequirements.
Setabudgetandlookforthebestvalue-for-moneyoptions. Readuserreviewsandratingsandwatchdemovideosofthe dronesyouareinterestedin.
Checkthelegalandsafetyregulationsandrestrictionsinyour areaandfollowthemaccordingly
Thisisacargodronethatcanflyforupto60minutes andcoverupto80kminasingleflight.Doyouknow thisdronecancarryupto10kgofpayloadand
Wehopethisblogposthashelpedyoutounderstandhowto choosetherighttypesofdronesforyourproject.Also,we wouldlovetohearfromyouonwhichtopicsyouwantusto talkabout.
VolansiVOLYC10
JAMES GAUDINO JAMES GAUDINO
A Seasoned Educator Preparing Students for Enlightened, Responsible, and Productive Lives
The entire education system has undergone numerous transformations over the years. In recent years, we have come to learn that teaching and learning are distinct but inseparable components of education. The modern educator must use inquiry, experiential learning, and technology to create an environment that engages students in a learning process.Wehavealsogainedabetterunderstandingof individualized learning and lexibility in teaching
methods according to the students' backgrounds and learningstyles.
Talkingaboutthechangingeducationlandscapearound the world, James Gaudino (President of Central Washington University) states, “We are rediscovering old lessons while also adapting them to an environment of ubiquitous connectivity, smartphones, and social media. The pandemic has further accelerated our adaption to
and adoption of these technologies.” Gaudino is a seasoned educator with extensive experience. He has been an integral part of CWU's success as one of the preeminentuniversitiesintheregion.
An Illustrious Career
Gaudino is a graduate of the United States Air Force AcademyandservedintheU.S.AirForceinCalifornia, Turkey, and Germany He pursued a Ph.D in Communication from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Management from Troy State University His prominent interests include public relationsandpublicopinionformation.
Inhiseminentcareer,Gaudinohasworkedwithseveral renowned educational institutions. He was the Executive Director of the National Communication Association. He also served on the faculty of Michigan
State University's Department of Advertising before joiningKentStateUniversityAtKentStateUniversity,he foundedtheCollegeofCommunicationandInformation andguideditsdevelopmentintoacenterofinnovation in the study of the new information age. Gaudino was appointedthePresidentofCWUin2009andhastaken theuniversitytonewheightsduringhistenure.
A Leader in Teacher Education
Central Washington University (CWU) was founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School. It was knownastheCentralWashingtonCollegeofEducation from1937-1961,thenCentralWashingtonStateCollege from1961-1977.IthasbeenCWUsince1977.Initially established as a teachers' training institution, CWU's mission has expanded over the years as it has transformed into a comprehensive four-year public university.Central'sroleasaleaderinteachereducation has remained consistent as the university is now recognized for providing one of the largest and most prestigiousteachereducationprogramsinthewest.
The Facilities Plan
When Gaudino irst arrived at CWU 12 years ago, he committedtoafacilitiesplanthatwouldgivestudents the best learning environment. “We ensured that by building new instructional facilities and renovating existing ones. Our students now have the opportunities to discover new stars in a research quality planetarium and study sound in an anechoic chamber,”addsGaudino.
Thestudentscanconductstudysecuritystructuresina cyberwarfarelabandinvestigate3Dsystemsinvirtual reality labs. A new health sciences building—which opens in January 2022—will boast state-of-the-art 3D anatomytablesandvirtualrealitytools.
Competitive Environment
“I believe that competition is more than a desire to win. It is a drive to improve, and the act of competing is simply a measure of that effort,” asserts Gaudino. According to him, education is all about seeking improvement. Offeringstudentsanopportunitytocompetemotivates them to improve and allows them to evaluate their progress.
CWU encourages students to test themselves by entering regional, national, and international competitions in diverse ields such as music performance, math modeling, construction management, and business planning. During his 12 yearsasPresident,Gaudinohasseenmanyteamsreturn withhonors,onlytoaskforanopportunitytoimprove theirperformanceinthecomingcompetitionyear.“That spiritofcontinuousimprovementiswhyourrecentreaccreditation report described CWU as an excellent universitythatisonthecuspofgreatness.Wenowstrive forthatgoal,”Gaudinocontinues.
Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity
CWUtakesprideinprovidingopportunitiestotalented studentsfromavarietyofbackgroundsandabilitiesto pay Diversity,equity,andinclusivityhavebeenthetop prioritiesduringGaudino'stenure.About40percentof CWU'sstudentsaretraditionallyunderservedstudents or students of color, thus the university ensures to providethemawelcomingandacceptingenvironment
As majority of its students are irst-generation college students, CWU has programs that provide ongoing
assistancetothem,suchasitsFirst-YearExperience, SophomoreYearExperience,andotherenrichment initiatives. The Of ice of International Studies and Programs (OISP) also offers a wide variety of programs and support services for international students, education abroad participants, exchange scholars,andacademicdepartments.
Career and Academic Services
The university is committed to providing its students with the career and academic services including peer tutoring, career counseling, and study skill workshops, that they need to succeed.
“Our academic majors help students with educational policies, transfer credits, apply to a major, and other essential information about degree programs,” adds Gaudino. The career services assist students with exploring options for internships, job searches, careerchoices,andnetworkingopportunities.
CWU'sDepartmentofCareerServicesofferscareer counseling and professional development opportunities to all current and transfer students, alumni, faculty, and staff. The career services sponsorcareer,internship,andgraduateschoolfairs throughout the year and career counselors, workshops, and a professional clothing closet—offering free interview-appropriate clothing to students in need of professional attire.
The Career Services staff at CWU also assists students in job searching techniques, resume and coverletterwriting,andinterviewing.
Why CWU?
The number of educational institutions emerging hasbeenincreasinginrecentyears.Studentstoday have numerous options while choosing the educational institute. Thus, choosing a college/universityisvitalforstudents.Accordingto Gaudino, there are several prominent reasons a student should choose CWU. The university has a welcoming environment for the students, faculty, and staff. “We have a saying at Central—you belong—and it is how we want our student, faculty, staff, and parents to feel about the university,” says Gaudino.
James Gaudino President | Central Washington University
Note To The Students
“Central's commitment to hands-on learning and discovery and individual attention takes you beyond the limits of the classroom and books.”
Furthermore,CWUisknownforembracingdiversity As oneofthemostdiverseandinclusiveuniversitiesinthe state, it has been awarded the prestigious Higher EducationExcellenceinDiversityawardinsixofthepast sevenyears.Alongsidediversity,affordabilityisoneof the most important factors students consider before choosing a university CWU has been consistently rankedasoneofthemostaffordablepublicuniversities inWashingtonState.
Theyear2020broughtnumerouschangestotheways CWUoperated.Itsexpectationsfrom2021andbeyond include returning to in-person instruction and inpersonuniversityoperationsinthefall.“Of course, being able to do that will depend on the recommendations of our local and state health professionals,” concludes Gaudino.
