Lassoing Leadership: Cultivating Cultures of Equity and Belonging

This week on Lassoing Leadership, Garth Nichols and Dr. Jason Rogers sit down with Nicole Cozier, the Executive Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) at Havergal College.

This vital conversation delves into the paramount importance of fostering a genuine culture of equity and inclusion within educational institutions. Nicole shares her personal journey as an advocate for marginalized communities, outlining her vision for creating truly safe and affirming spaces for both students and staff. The discussion also bravely addresses the inherent challenges of navigating traditional power structures within independent schools, emphasizing the long-term commitment to change required for meaningful EDIB progress.

Nicole offers practical steps for school leaders and highlights valuable resources to deepen understanding in this critical field, proving that building a sense of belonging is not just about participation, but about ownership and contribution.

Key Takeaways:

• Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging must be woven into the very fabric of school culture.
• Creating safe and affirming spaces is essential for all students and staff.
• Navigating traditional power structures requires balancing respect for heritage with a commitment to change.
• Measuring EDIB progress requires a long-term, nuanced approach beyond simple metrics.
• Introspection, humility, and sustained effort are crucial for leaders in this space.

Guest: Nicole Cozier, Executive Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Havergal College.