Illinois SUCCESS: Leading with Hope
About this episode
This episode discusses sustaining equity-centered work in higher education amidst political pressures with insights from equity champions.
This episode of Democracy's College explores how higher education leaders can sustain equity-centered work amid mounting political pressures. The conversation features Dr. Robert Brown and Dr. Sara Furr, two nationally recognized equity champions. Drawing from "social justice fatigue"—a term Furr defines as the physical, mental, and emotional toll of justice-oriented work without the hopelessness that marks burnout—the conversation highlights the personal, relational, and structural supports needed to keep equity efforts moving forward. Brown and Furr share candid stories about the toll of this work, the importance of community, and the wellness practices and organizational conditions that help leaders "hold on to hope" while navigating institutional barriers. Their insights offer practical strategies and inspiring "pockets of hope" for Illinois campuses working to close equity gaps and sustain mission-driven change.
People in this episode
Guests: Dr. Robert Brown, Dr. Sara Furr
Topics covered
- equity in higher education
- leadership
- social justice
- community support
- wellness practices
Keywords
- equity
- higher education
- social justice fatigue
- community
- wellness practices
- institutional barriers
- hope
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Democracy's College, Office of Community College Research & Leadership, University of Illinois
More episodes of Democracy's College: Research and Leadership in Educational Equity, Justice and Excellence for All
- Flipping the Script to Improve Campus Systems for Student Success
- Student Leadership in Community Colleges
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