Season 1, Episode 6:

In this episode, Kate sits down with her longtime friend, Gina Carlson Brown, to continue the conversation on cultural proficiency and equity. Gina explains how her role as a mother and teacher propelled her into this important work. "If we are educating 21st century learners in a global economy, then we really must educate to appreciate diversity in its many forms. We need to have the ability to have constructive conversations." Gina Carlson Brown reminds us that we all play a critical role in creating equitable learning experiences for our students and families.

Gina Carlson Brown is researcher and educator who focuses on the areas of: leadership, management, social justice, and equitable teaching and learning. She has been an educator at the post-secondary level for over 10 years and also works with middle-school students assisting them in building their capacity to create successful experiences and outcomes in school.

Gina has also been a teaching fellow with the Preparing Future Faculty program at Claremont Graduate University. One of her many educational passions is to help students and their families acquire strategies and knowledge to be successful as they transition to and begin their first year in college. She uses and advocates for a social justice approach to teaching and learning that includes equitable outcomes for all students in K-12 and higher education.

Training teachers and administrators in the area of cultural competence and inclusive pedagogy are also areas of expertise. She has presented at academic conferences in the area of diversity and is in the final stages of completing a Ph.D. in education with an emphasis in Higher Education and Student Services. Her business management background includes education, entrepreneurship, entertainment, and the fashion industry.

Gina received her B.A. in Broadcast Journalism from The University of La Verne and an M.A. in Education from Claremont Graduate University as well as an M.S. in Leadership and Management from the University of La Verne.