SC165: Tokiwa Smith, Founder SEM Link, Inc-Rebroadcast SC80
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
Release Date: 07/02/2025
SC170: Dr. Dale Wesson on Redefining R-1
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this episode, we welcome back a familiar voice from our very first season—Dr. Dale Wesson. Known for his insightful and candid perspectives, Dr. Wesson joins us for a thought-provoking (and perhaps a bit controversial) discussion on the coveted R-1 designation in higher education. Drawing from his recent opinion piece in Inside Higher Ed, Dr. Wesson unpacks the implications of the updated criteria for the Carnegie Classification and what “R-1” should truly signify for colleges and universities. We explore how this redefinition could reshape institutional priorities, impact funding and...
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SC168: STEM-NOLA Was Created to Inspire, Engage and Expose Rebroadcast SC100
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this milestone 100th episode rebroadcast, we revisit an inspiring conversation with Dr. Calvin Mackie — engineer, entrepreneur, author, and the dynamic founder and CEO of STEM Global Action, formerly known as STEM NOLA. Born out of a vision to bring hands-on STEM education to the youth of New Orleans, STEM NOLA has grown into a national movement, impacting communities across the country through STEM Global Action. Dr. Mackie shares how a simple mission — to inspire, engage, and expose K–12 students to science, technology, engineering, and math — has evolved into a powerful force for...
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SC169: Note to Self: Work-Life Integration
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this reflective solo episode of STEMulating Conversations, we pause for a personal check-in with a powerful reminder: time is our most valuable resource. Titled "A Note to Self", this episode unpacks the real meaning behind work-life integration—not balance—and the necessity of aligning our actions with what truly matters. With candid honesty, we explore how to manage the many demands on our time without losing ourselves in the hustle. You'll hear a fresh perspective on three timeless truths: ⏳ Time is Equal – Everyone gets 24 hours. ♻️ Time is Nonrenewable – Once it’s gone,...
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SC167: Celebrating President Emerita Tuajuanda Jordan, PhD St. Mary’s College of Maryland REBROADCAST SC42
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this special rebroadcast of STEMulating Conversations, we revisit an inspiring dialogue with St. Mary's College of Maryland President Emerita Tuajuana Jordan. Dr. Jordan reflects on her leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, student-centered leadership, and resilience in the face of challenge. She shares lessons on navigating institutional change, empowering teams, and maintaining integrity while leading through uncertain times. Her insights on legacy, mentorship, and the power of purposeful leadership remain as relevant today as ever. Whether you're a seasoned...
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SC166: Mentoring Expert Beronda Montgomery, PhD Rebroadcast SC105
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this special rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes, Dr. Q revisits a powerful and thought-provoking conversation with renowned mentoring expert, scholar, and author, Dr. Beronda Montgomery. A professor, researcher, and author of Lessons from Plants, Dr. Montgomery offers wisdom on how mentoring—like growth in nature—requires intentionality, adaptability, and nurturing environments. Together, they explore what it truly means to mentor with purpose, how to cultivate spaces for personal and professional growth, and the lessons we can learn from the natural world about leadership,...
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SC165: Tokiwa Smith, Founder SEM Link, Inc-Rebroadcast SC80
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
This week on STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q, we're honoring a trailblazer in STEM education and outreach—Tokiwa Smith, founder of SEM Link—by rebroadcasting one of our most impactful episodes: SC80. As Tokiwa celebrates her birthday on July 4th and the 20th anniversary of launching SEM Link, we take a moment to recognize her unwavering commitment to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. A true lover of math and science, Tokiwa turned her passion into purpose when she created SEM Link, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting student achievement and career exploration in STEM...
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SC164: Kenny A. Rolle II--Young, Focused, and Leading The Way
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this inspiring episode of STEMulating Conversations, Dr. Q sits down with emerging leader Kenny Rolle, whose leadership journey began as a junior high basketball team manager and led him all the way to serving as Student Government Association President at Tennessee State University to coveted NFL Communication Specialists roles. Kenny reflects on the lessons he's learned from both peers and mentors, offering fresh insights into the evolving face of leadership. Kenny’s path is marked by consistency and commitment. With wisdom beyond his years, he shares practical advice on making an...
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SC163 Dr. Samaad Wes Keys: HBCU Love- From Tradition to Transformation
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this enlightening episode of STEMulating Conversations, Dr. Q sits down with Samaad Wes Keys, PhD, a passionate advocate for education and a Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation. Samaad shares his inspiring journey—from his early days as a classroom teacher in New Jersey to now shaping national strategies that uplift Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With humor and insight, he discusses how his lived experiences inform his work and his dedication to ensuring equity and excellence in higher education. Samaad unpacks the unique strengths and enduring impact of...
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SC162: KathyTimesWow! Resetting to Understand Your Strengths
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this episode of STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q, we welcome Emmy-winning storyteller and communications strategist Kathy Times. Known for her dynamic presence and powerful storytelling as a journalist, Kathy opens up about the value of hitting reset—how taking a step back can help clarify your strengths and reignite your purpose. Listeners get an authentic look at the leader behind the accolades, as she shares how prioritizing wellness and living with intention fuels her success. Kathy also introduces us to WOW, her professional development program designed to help...
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SC161: Mia McNeil: The Hope Dealer’s Guide to Aging, Advocacy & AARP
STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q
In this STEMulating Conversations episode, hope dealer Mia McNeil, ESq., Tennessee State Director for AARP, joins us to unpack the truth behind the organization’s mission, the power of advocacy, and why aging is everyone’s issue. AARP isn’t just about senior discounts—it's shaping the future of healthcare, equity, and livable communities. Mia brings energy, insight, and truth as she dispels the common myths about AARP — it’s not just for "old folks," and it's not just about discounts. She shares how the organization champions critical issues like healthcare access, digital...
info_outlineThis week on STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q, we're honoring a trailblazer in STEM education and outreach—Tokiwa Smith, founder of SEM Link—by rebroadcasting one of our most impactful episodes: SC80.
As Tokiwa celebrates her birthday on July 4th and the 20th anniversary of launching SEM Link, we take a moment to recognize her unwavering commitment to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. A true lover of math and science, Tokiwa turned her passion into purpose when she created SEM Link, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting student achievement and career exploration in STEM fields. For two decades, SEM Link has worked to increase student exposure to real-world STEM experiences and professionals—bridging the gap between the classroom and the broader STEM community.
Join us as we revisit Tokiwa’s powerful story, her vision for equitable STEM education, and the impact of two decades of SEM Link. This celebratory episode reminds us that when passion meets purpose, transformation follows.
Happy Birthday, Tokiwa—and cheers to 20 years of STEM empowerment!