The USF Libraries hosted speakers Dr. Brenda Walker and Dr. Marquis Holley to discuss Project R.I.S.E.S. (Racism in School Exclusionary Suspensions). Focusing on the high suspension rates of Black/African-American students in elementary, middle, and high schools, this initiative is a part of a year-long series of research projects funded by USF to explore the perpetuation of systemic racism in society that has resulted in economic inequities, social injustices, police violence, and other impacts.
Our speakers were introduced by Emily Mann, USF Libraries Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair. After the presentation, Dr. Walker and Dr. Holley answered questions from attendees. Tune in to the recorded event below (or on our USF Libraries – Tampa campus YouTube channel).
(This Microsoft Teams event was recorded on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, from 4 – 5 p.m.)
About the Speakers
Dr. Brenda L. Walker is a professor in the Exceptional Student Education Program at the University of South Florida, Director of the Call Me MiSTER program, and lead principal investigator of Project R.I.S.E.S. Dr. Walker is also the director of a federal outreach and technical assistance project that enhances the urban school research capacity of faculty and graduate students in minority institutions.
Dr. Marquis B. Holley is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professional that has taught from kindergarten to senior-level in higher education, working with students, faculty, and staff on these concepts. His classes focus on Critical Thinking and Diversity-based research through educational practices on a local, national, and global level. His research highlights the misuse and abuse of Black and Brown faculty and staff professionals in higher education, and how this correlates to student success or failure in the schools.