Nova West (They/Them) is a pioneer and up-and-coming filmmaker, photographer, and visual artist. Nova's career has been working in the oceanography/marine sciences industry as an expedition documentarian and an independent filmmaker focusing on LGBTQIA representation in science and marine science advocacy topics through beautifully compelling imagery that is sure to inspire.

In this episode, Kacey and Nova talk about careers blending arts and science as well as how showing up authentically can sometimes be the best inclusive representation of the LGBTQIA community in STEM spaces.

Learn more about Closing the Gap at our website https://www.midvalleystem.org/closing-the-gap/

Dr. Robin Barre is a psychotherapist and depth psychologist specializing in Internal Family Systems (IFS). Robin has built a career working with adolescents, young people ages 11-20 starting her journey as a high school educator. In her prolific blog, The Shiftless Wanderer, Robin covers topics of common issues and conflicts caregivers, mentors, and educators often face when stewarding adolescence into adulthood.

In this episode of Closing the Gap, Robin touches on learning and validating students' parts and fostering a safe space for students to develop their self-energy; shepherding students' success in school, STEM, and into rewarding careers. Together we will explore the concept of trauma and how childhood traumas play into the way they interact with the world as teens and adults.

Learn more at https://www.midvalleystem.org/2024/09/24/unlocking-potential-closing-the-gap-podcast/

#STEM #IFS

Take a moment.

Do you know what feminism is? If so, what does feminism mean to you? From your point of view, what is the Feminist movement about? What role does feminism play in your life?

In this episode, Lauren Visconti, a women’s studies and anthropology instructor at Linn-Benton Community College corrects the misconceptions of what feminism is and is not, as well as touches on what equity and inclusivity can look like in the classroom and workplace.

Resources:

The Need for Feminism in 2024 - Closing the Gap Podcast - Mid-Valley STEM-CTE Hub (midvalleystem.org)