Episode 9 | Inclusive Excellence: A Conversation with Dr. Damon A. Williams

From Fieldwork to Future Medicine with Jess Randall

In this episode, we sit down with L&S Dean’s Ambassador Jess Randle, a Biology and Global Health student whose experiences in Kenya, Uganda, Belize, and beyond have shaped her commitment to equitable care, ethical global health practice, and advocacy for underserved communities. From marine research and public health projects to study abroad and scuba expeditions, Jess shares how resilience, purpose, empathy, and creativity guide her path as she builds a future bridging clinical medicine and public health impact.

From Aerosols to Aviation: Tracking Weather Hazards

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Mayra Oyola-Merced grew up tracking hurricanes and tropical storms, and that early curiosity turned into a lifelong passion for understanding the weather shaping her island. Now an Assistant Professor of Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences at UW-Madison, she takes us behind the scenes of how satellites help scientists “see” severe storms and aviation hazards like turbulence, connecting weather research to real-world safety and smarter forecasting.

Building Tomorrow: Jack Taylor on Purpose, Passion and Place

In this episode of L&S Elevate, meet Jack Taylor, a senior from Princeton, Wisconsin, who’s double-majoring in Landscape & Urban Studies and Anthropology with minors in Chican@ & Latin@ Studies and Archaeology. From shaping clay in the ceramics studio to envisioning the cities of tomorrow, Jack’s journey is all about connection between people, places, and the past. He shares how his love for urban planning and historic preservation drives his mission to create more inclusive, sustainable communities. Tune in as Jack reflects on how curiosity, creativity, and care for the world around him guide his path forward.

Episode 9 | Inclusive Excellence: A Conversation with Dr. Damon A. Williams

Dr. Damon A. Williams was UW–Madison’s inaugural chief diversity officer. He advocated for a campus where inclusion is a priority, leading to the establishment of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement, which is now celebrating its 15th anniversary. Hear from Williams as he talks about the state of this work with L&S Associate Dean for Inclusive Excellence DeVon Wilson.

Episode 8 | Glacial Insights & Cultural Collaboration with the Menominee Nation

Join us as we sit down with Dr. Lucas Zoet, Associate Professor in the Department of Geoscience who delves into the world of glaciology. Dr. Zoet shares his research on modern glaciers and their impact on landforms. But the journey doesn't stop there—he also highlights his collaborative work with the Menominee Nation Geoscience Program. Discover how this unique partnership fosters a deeper understanding of our natural world while respecting and preserving cultural heritage.