Change Agents

Ms. Rebecca Laumann-Executive Director of the Center for International Education Services at the University of Memphis

In today's episode, we are joined by Ms. Rebecca Laumann. She is the Executive Director of the Center for International Education Services at the University of Memphis. In this role, Ms. Laumann oversees the University of Memphis’ International Student Services, Education Abroad Office, and the Intensive English for Internationals program. Laumann has over twenty-five years of experience working in the field of international education. She is an active member of NAFSA: The Association of International Educators and a founding member of the Tennessee Conference for International Leadership. She currently serves as Faculty Advisor to the African Students Association, the Bangladeshi Student Association, and the International Students Association at the University of Memphis. She is the past President of the Ghana Association of Memphis.

Dr. Maria del Socorro Hubbard-Manager of Global Learning and Development at Sylvamo

In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Maria del Socorro Hubbard. Dr. Hubbard is an HR professional specializing in innovative curriculum strategies for professional and leadership development programs. In terms of community engagement, Dr. Hubbard served on the executive committees of the OUTMemphis and Friends For All boards, and she is currently the vice-chair of the DeNeuville Learning Center for Women board of directors.

Dr. Karen Weddle-West: Vice President of the Division of Student Academic Success

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Karen Weddle-West who is the Vice President of the Division of Student Academic Success at the University of Memphis. She was the first female and African American Provost. She was Director of Diversity Initiatives from 2009 till 2023, where she collaborated with various organizations, securing millions to enhance student access, inclusiveness, and diversity in academia. From 2002 to 2014, she was Dean of the Graduate School, where she significantly contributed to graduate education and diversity. She chaired the national Council of Graduate Schools’ Diversity and Inclusion Committee and received the prestigious Council of Graduate Schools Peterson’s Award in 2006 for Innovation in Promoting an Inclusive Graduate Community. She also served on the GRE and TOEFL boards and launched over sixty graduate programs.

Dr. Stephanie Ivey-Associate Dean for Research: Herff College of Engineering

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Stephanie Ivey the Associate Dean for Research at the Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis. Dr. Ivey has been a program faculty for the Herff College of Engineering’s targeted outreach program, Girls Experiencing Engineering, since its inception in 2004.

Welcome episode

Welcome to "Change Agents," the podcast that's breaking barriers and leading the way in the transformation of academia and industry towards gender equality, diversity, an d inclusion. I am your host Dr. Esra Oz, join me as we explore the inspiring stories of change agents, whether an academic trailblazer, a corporate visionary, or simply someone passionate about driving change paving the path to a brighter, more inclusive future. We invite you to Stay connected with us on social media on  Instagram @prof.dr.esraoz [https://www.instagram.com/prof.dr.esraoz/] and linked in @DrEsraOz  ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/dresraoz/⁠ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dresraoz/]  Share your own experiences, insights, and ideas with us, and let's keep pushing for progress together.  If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider subscribing to our podcast change agents and leaving a review. Your feedback is invaluable and helps us reach more listeners who are passionate about making a difference. Thank you once again for being a part of our community of change agents. Together, we can create a world where gender equality, diversity, and inclusion are not just goals but everyday realities. Until next time, remember that change starts with you. Stay inspired, stay empowered, and keep regenerating a more inclusive future for all.