MSCHE Pillars of Change
MSCHE Pillars of Change
Episode 4 - Dr. Aminta Breaux, President of Bowie State University
In this wide-ranging interview, Lloyd Ricketts, Vice President and Treasurer at the College of New Jersey as well as Treasurer of the Commission and a member of the Executive Committee speaks with Dr. Aminta Breaux who serves as the 10th president of Bowie State. At Bowie State, the oldest historically Black university in Maryland, Dr. Breaux is committed to ensuring that every student develops an entrepreneurial mindset to achieve success in the workplace and the community, and has added programming to support that call.
Welcome to the Pillars of Change Podcast presented by Middle States Commission on Higher Education I'm Lloyd Ricketts, Vice- President and Treasurer at the College of New Jersey, as well as Treasurer of the Commission and a member of the Executive Committee. I would like to thank you for joining me for the Commission's continuing series of podcasts, focusing on the topics of diversity, equity and inclusion. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is closely aligned with assure in trust and instilling confidence in higher education. As an institutional accreditor, the Commission prides itself on advocating for honest, self-reflection that results in meaningful change at our institution. And because the Commission recognizes that it holds an important voice and space within the higher education community, this podcast series spotlights highly effective institutional practices that have made a difference in the lives of our students through diversity equity and inclusion initiatives. Today, I would like to welcome Bowie State University, president Dr. Aminta Breaus, Dr. Breaux serves as the 10th president of Bowie State, the oldest, historically black university in Maryland. She also has the note about this thing of being the first female president in the university's history. Dr. Breaux can lean on more than 30 years of experience in higher education while serving at a diverse array of institution. At Bowie State, Dr. Breaux i s committed to ensuring that every student develops an entrepreneurial mindset to achieve success in the workplace and the community, and as added programming to support that call. Certainly those efforts were aided by the$25 million gift, the largest in school history, from philanthropist Mackenzie. Scott. Dr. Breaux is a national voice in higher education and currently serves an appointment to the president's board of advisors on historically Black colleges and universities and the g overnor's P 20 leadership council of Maryland. She is vice chair of the board of directors for the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Welcome Dr. B reaux. And thank you for joining me today.
Aminta Breaux:Thank you so much. It's a pleasure to be with you. And I really am so pleased to be invited to speak about Bowie State University and the issues that are facing higher education today. So I want to thank you and Middle States for hosting this podcast and it's a joy to be with you.
Lloyd Ricketts:Great. So let's get started. My first question for you is what is your sense of race, diversity, and inclusion in our country today?
Aminta Breaux:Well, I guess we have to look at this last year as an indicator, uh, the status of race, diversity, and inclusion in the United States. While we've made great strides, particularly in increasing the numbers and diversity in the workplaces and various industries, business, evidence shows that we still are in great need of addressing major issues and challenges facing our country today. In this last year, we have seen the advent of COVID 19 and the rise of social justice concerns in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd and the intersection of those two crises really brought to, uh, the ahead and to a, uh, very visible, uh, limelight, the issues that are facing our black and brown communities across our country. The history of our country, uh, is fraught with a number of challenges. And I do believe we need to continue to address, uh, our history our past in order to prepare for the future and to meet it head on today. Again, what we saw this last year, uh, were great disparities disparities in health, uh, in our black and brown communities where we've seen higher incidents of hospitalizations and death rates. Uh, we also saw a greater disparity and gap with technology with regard to education. When we went into the stay at home orders, what we solve are communities that were in great need of technology and the supports necessary for students to learn in this new normal and this environment and what we have continued to see are concerns around, uh, social justice issues, uh, policing reforms that are needed. So on and on, uh, we have seen very visibly that we are still challenged with racial divides, uh, the need for greater diversity, uh, in our workplaces. But most importantly is the inclusion of individuals of different backgrounds, races, ethnicities, gender, gender orientation, to be addressed. And each and every day we see this in the news, the concerns that widening gaps that must be faced head on. And so I would contend that we still have a ways to go. Here at Bowie State University, we talk about the race to excellence. I believe our country is in a race and we're at the very beginning of the race. We made some great strides, uh, in the past, in the 60s with the civil rights era in the 50s before, and, uh, with the emergence beforehand of our HBCUs. And I'm very proud to be the president of Bowie State University. So we've seen progress be made, but then here we are, and we've taken two steps forward and three steps back. So there's yet a lot that lies ahead for us to address.
Lloyd Ricketts:That's a fantastic perspective. I really liked the way you articulate that. So, um, that leads me into my next question. What role does higher education plays in enhancing or altering the conversation of diversity and inclusion on individual campuses?
Aminta Breaux:Well, when you look at our history of higher education in this country, higher education has played a vital role in preparing citizens to engage in the political process in our communities. And as a public university, Bowie State University, uh, has a special responsibility. I believe, especially public universities have a special responsibility to be here for the public good. To prepare our students to yes, go into the workplaces and have the knowledge and skills they need. But more and more, what we see is a greater need for us to address what it means to be a citizen in a democratic society. And unfortunately, I think we've lost some ground there and higher education can play a vital role through our delivery of the liberal arts and preparing students to think critically to, uh, address issues that we face today, but do so informed with facts with truths, uh, to be able to have a discourse around issues where we might not always see eye to eye on an issue. And our higher ed environments have been that place, whether it's private, independent, or public universities, we've been that place where the marketplace of ideas can emerge, where you can agree to disagree and you can do so civilly and explore issues to get to a better understanding of the truth and get to the better, a better understanding of perspectives, diverse perspectives, and recognizing that each has value in our society. So our higher ed institutions have the ability to get us back on course, I believe to a more just civil and democratic society. And yes, again, it's important to prepare a knowledgeable, skilled workforce, but our universities have long served the public good and creating educated citizens to engage in their communities. And when they go to the polls, know who they're voting for, but know why. Understand platforms, understand how our government works. And, uh, also when I think about the history of Bowie State University, I believe as an HBCU, we also have a special responsibility to provide a historical context in educating our students about our communities, about the history of this country in all its glory, and also in all of the ugliness, that is also part of our history. It is who we are and to help our students contextualize the issues we face today. So these issues didn't just emerge out of nowhere, they come from that historical context. And that includes, you know, making sure that we understand and are able to talk about race, talk about slavery, talk about bias, discrimination. That is part of our history, just as much as the emergence of innovations in this country. And as we talk about being the greatest in the world, well, we also have to talk about the, not so good side of our history. So when you look at our value of higher education, I believe we have a huge opportunity to get this country back on track giving that historical context, preparing citizens, but in a manner that engages citizens and our students in discussion in dialogue to address the issues of today only then I think, can we get to problem solving and doing it in a way that has meaning. Meaning and long lasting consequences.
Lloyd Ricketts:Excellent. Um, it's really commendable. I've been looking at, um, your institution's strategic plan, and I see where diversity, equity, and inclusion is forefront in your goals and your core values. So in essence, your, you know, your preaching and your practice, you're walking the walk. And that, that is fantastic. I really admire that.
Aminta Breaux:Thank you for that. I'd like to think so that, uh, as a leader, I set the example and making sure that we're talking about these issues, but giving, uh, action to what's needed today.
Lloyd Ricketts:Great. That is fantastic. Um, I'd like you to react to the following two statements. The first statement, statements of support are important to solidify the position of, of the university or college. The second statement, actions and engagement are the hallmarks of institutional position and change. How do you react to these statements and do you see them as being complimentary in any way?
Aminta Breaux:Well, uh, let me take the first part of your question. Uh, statements of support are important to solidifying the position of the college and university definitely, uh, using my voice and, uh, position to speak out in times of crises in times of challenge that were such as we're facing today is extremely important for helping us set the tone, to bring attention to the issues that are important for higher education and for those on my campus, but those across our great nation. And our presidents of universities have a, a, um, that ability to have a platform. And I don't think we should be on the sidelines. We should be front and center speaking out. So our campuses understand where we are as an institution, and then where we need to position our institutions to make that impact. As I was sharing earlier to harken back to our role in the society to enact change. So definitely, uh, statements of support are critical. Uh, and then actions and engagement are the hallmarks of our institutional, uh, positions and, and change, uh, actions allow us to, uh, demonstrate and utilize our resources to bring about that change that's needed. So it's the two are complimentary, and it's important for us to see the value that we bring as leaders in driving home, the priorities. You mentioned my strategic plan at Bowie State University that is visible for all to see, I can sit in a room and write up a strategic plan, but that's not what is going to bring about change. That strategic plan that you see was developed with campus wide engagement over the course of a year, so that this campus understands where we're going, feels a part of it. They understand the vision that I have for the institution, but we joined together as one community and making sure that we bring about the change so that this institution is leading the way in a united way. And then also giving, uh, great, um, leadership to the rest of the region and the country to address these issues. So words are important without a doubt, but to bring about true change requires action. And, uh, when I, I think about what we're facing today, uh, from, uh, threats to our democracy elections, again, the universities across this great nation, have that ability to get us back on course. And I think about what, um, Dr. King said, uh, some time ago about the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. And if not now, when do I use my voice and my platform to speak out,
Lloyd Ricketts:That is great. And you teed it up very nicely for this next question I have is what role does the college or a university president play as it relates to diversity and inclusion, not only on your campus, but in the surrounding communities?
Aminta Breaux:Well, It, it, uh, speaks to... that question, speaks to the role of using my voice, u h, ensuring that the students understand the issues today through their curricular, u h, endeavors, but also co-curricular. Ensuring that from day one, when they start even just looking at Bowie State University, they look at what we're asking students to do when they come to Bowie State University. We're asking them to join a community community. We're asking them, u h, when I start to talk to students in new student orientation, I, I let them know you're expected to give back. I know you haven't stepped foot on the campus yet, but you need to know that this institution didn't emerge from nowhere. It exists because of people who dedicated their lives, their resources, their time, talent, treasures, to make sure that you have a pathway to higher education. So likewise, you're expected to l eave this place better than the way you found it to have an impact on this institution. And then that's when I get glazed over look sometimes like, what is she talking about? But the message needs to be upfront, front and center. And letting students know that that's the expectation that we have for you. You're more than having a student sitting in a seat. You are joining a community and that's especially profound for a historically Black college and university and Bowie State University is the first HBCU in the state of Maryland. So this is part of our culture and our history that we instill in students from the very beginning. And I use my voice in that way on the campus to help set that tone. Set the expectation and set the bar high, letting students know that we expect a lot of you. And we also expect that beyond Bowie State University, you will give back to the larger community because there's great need. And you have the ability, those who are given much to those who are given much, much as expected, give back to leave your footprint in the community to enrich it. We want you to be prepared for the workplaces, but we expect that you will contribute to the enrichment of communities and to our society. And then that's where tying in the political governmental, uh, uh, element, helping students to understand the society in which we live, which is a democratic society, a capitalistic society. So what does that mean for them? Where do they fit into the world, but they need to understand that these are issues they need to wrestle with, and we're going to help guide them. But this is a partnership in that learning process. So for me as the president of Bowie State University, and by the way, the first female president in over 150 years, I believe I have the ability to inspire students to, um, be, uh, their best selves.
Lloyd Ricketts:That is great. And that level of orientation, as you said before, they even set foot on campus is, is, is fantastic because, um, students, um, you know, after four years, you graduate and move on, some students forget about their institution. So I think the way you're actually conducting the orientation and engaging student from the onset, it's perfect, um, setting up these students to be the next generation of leaders
Aminta Breaux:And lloyd, if I might add, um, beyond the students and impacting what happens here on the campus, presidents have a vital role to play in educating the rest of the society, our businesses, our, uh, industry leaders, our, um, communities at large about the value of higher education and what we offer today. And I know that there are challenges and, uh, student loan debt, and you hear a lot about, uh, those types of challenges, but our institutions bring a huge value. When I look at what a Bowie State University provides in the way of talent and resources to workplaces and to communities, I do think we need to use our voices to remind our communities and especially industry and business leaders about the value that we bring. And I'm very pleased to be able to do that. And recently, um, couple of years ago, actually, I signed on to, uh, the CEO Action for Diversity, with Price Waterhouse Coopers that now has over 2000 signatories on a pledge agreement to address diversity and inclusion across the country, in business and industry and being a part of those types of organizations, particularly that one allows me the opportunity to share information, to remind, uh, other leaders in industry and business about the true value of higher education. So when those workforce leaders are looking for talent for graduates who can read and communicate and write effectively, analyze, think critically and all of those skills that are sometimes called soft skills, I have to take an opportunity to say, I call those essential skills and you know what? We provide that through our liberal arts education. And so we don't want to lose sight. Yes, we will prepare disciplines specific, uh, talent, but we have to support the liberal arts because when the jobs change over and over again, we don't even know what the next five years are going to hold with all the technological changes. You're going to need people who can read, who can write, analyze, think for themselves, and then innovate and be creative and lead your organizations.
Lloyd Ricketts:Great that, you know, I love that you mentioned the value proposition, because that is so critical. Um, you know, as you said, um, you know, sometime you see the soundbites about the cost of higher ed and that discount the value proposition that, you know, higher ed is bringing to the country. So I, I think that that is great. Um, in terms of my next question, what have been your greatest opportunities and challenges in advancing your efforts on your campus?
Aminta Breaux:Well, I, I look at the world these days in terms of pre COVID and posts, and, uh, COVID, uh, over this last year and a half, uh, we've been going through the pandemic and the emergence re-emergence of social justice issues. There's been great challenge. But there's a saying that, uh, out of adversity, you know, the, the saying, uh, comes opportunity. And so the challenges over this last year and a half have been similar to what I'm sure you and others have encountered, and that is addressing COVID 19. Uh, making sure we kept our campus safe and putting in protocols and safety measures from testing, tracing, and now vaccinations happening on the campus to ensure the safety of our campus. Uh, we have poured, uh, funds, resources, financial, and, uh, other resources into just operating this year. And thank goodness for the federal dollars that came to our universities that allowed us to address COVID-19 and its impact, uh, because without those funds, I'm not sure where we would be today. So those federal dollars helped us in addressing the health and the welfare of our institution. Those federal dollars helped close in on that technology divide that we saw, especially for our campus, where many of our students did not have access to wifi. They were sitting in parking lots at McDonald's and other places trying to get wifi access. So over this last year, we gave out laptops, we gave out Chromebooks and hotspots. So we continue to do that to close in on that digital divide. So there's been a great many challenges, uh, with COVID-19. Prior to COVID-19 as a HBCU, uh, particularly in the state of Maryland, we were facing the issues around funding for our universities. And you may be aware that there was a settlement recently of the coalition case for HBCUs in the state of Maryland, that recognize that there was discrimination against, uh, in the courts. It was recognized. And the finding showed that there was discriminatory practices, uh, for our HBCUs. The remedy has been put forward for new funding to come to our HBCUs f or of our HBCUs over 10 years, with$577 million coming to our HBCUs. So prior to COVID 19, we were facing those challenges. And frankly, post C OVID-19, even with those funds, we will still need to close in on the gap for our institution because of the history that was here. And I think we need to recognize that we've made great progress, but the challenge is still faces in terms. S o our infrastructure, while I have new buildings on campus, I have aging infrastructure while I have, u h, new programs operating. I have other issues, u h, with, u h, marketing. So we're still very much trying to get to that level playing field. However, let me talk about great opportunities that have come our way. In addition to the coalition case being settled, we realized the largest gift in our history this year from McKenzie Scott, and we are truly indebted to her. And so thankful for$25 million, that was given to Bowie State University, and we are using those funds towards innovation to pick up pace, to accelerate our progress so that we can stay competitive in this new normal. So we've signed on to new partnerships, the likes of which we wouldn't have seen, uh, in the past. We're very fortunate that we now have greater attention on our HBCUs, including Bowie State University that is bringing new partnerships to the campus companies such as IBM and Google, Amazon Web Services. Truest is our, uh, one of our newest partners, uh, BG and E. And all of these companies that are saying, we recognize we're, we're hearing that there have been these disparities, and we recognize the talent that HBCUs have provided to work forces, uh, throughout our history of over 150 years. And so I'm so thankful for these new opportunities. Again, we have not seen this. I have not seen this type of attention in my 35 plus years in higher ed, on HBCUs as I have in the last couple of years. And especially through, um, the attention of social justice concerns and with the ongoing challenges through the pandemic. So, uh, there are challenges, no doubt, but I see great opportunities coming our way, and we're very thankful to all of our legislators for those cares dollars and the philanthropy and the corporate support that we're realizing now.
Lloyd Ricketts:That's great. And, um, I just want to say kudos to you. I see, I read your latest initiative, establishing the entrepreneurship academy to create that next generation of innovators. I thought that's fantastic. I'm like way to go. That, that's just great.
Aminta Breaux:Thank you. And, you know, it speaks to this environment that's rapidly changing, and you mentioned in the introductory remarks, the vision that I have is for every student to graduate with an entrepreneurial mindset, if they want to create a new product or new business, so be it. And I think that may be needed in their, uh, their career along the way. But it's a way of thinking about the workplaces today that I want them focused on that when they see change coming about, they need to be able to identify those signals early on in order to help their organizations. If they're working for a large organization, a smaller organization recognize those signals of change and be part of driving that change and not reacting to it, but being more in that leadership driver's seat and seeing how they can still contribute and recognizing that they still can contribute. But riding that wave and being at the, at the forefront of that wave and not being, you know, at the end and say, oh my gosh, well now what do I do? So that's the world that this generation has inherited and generations I suspect, uh, to come for many years.
Lloyd Ricketts:Great. That's excellent. Um, my next question for you is, um, how can the lessons learned from issues highlighted in 2020 and 2021 around the pandemic, black lives matter, the election, et cetera, advance your thoughts about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how can these lessons best applied to both Bowie State University?
Aminta Breaux:The big lesson is that we can never become complacent where concerns are democracy, uh, education and providing access and opportunity to education, providing access and opportunity to better health, health care, um, providing access and opportunity for our citizens in our communities. And I do fear that there was complacency as I look back on what we've gone through in recent years, I believe that we were lulled into a false sense of security that our democracy is just going to happen. Well, it doesn't just happen. And someone once said that a democracy is, is not a spectator sport, it really isn't. And the lessons learned is, uh, is really about engaging, staying vigilant, being involved in the process, making sure that we contribute and making life better, not just for ourselves, but for our, our entire community. Because when you have this growing gap of wealth, you have the growing gap in health and, uh, financial wealth. What we see is, should not be a surprise to any of us. When we have a greater, uh, population of the have nots, uh, and that widening gap, this creates turmoil and, and, um, really creates the, the concerns and challenges that we're facing. So, yes, I'm biased because I'm in higher education, but I truly believe that when I'm look at the history that access and affordability to quality education, not just in higher ed, but from P through 20 is important to our democracy and our way of life. And so the lessons learned, and I've lived long enough to see, um, history repeat itself. And I don't believe that's where we want to be as a country. And we have to stay vigilant on these issues and engage in the process, making sure we're educated about issues and engaging in the process. And that's not to say, and I've been asked periodically, what do you think everybody should go to higher education? I believe that those who want to and, uh, want to go to higher education and are prepared, should come into higher education. I think they should have the opportunity to choose. And we in higher education can partner with P through 12th grade and with our community colleges to create pathways and with voc-tech with vocational institutions to create pathways for our citizens to find way forward, to find the best way that meets their needs to give back to our communities.
Lloyd Ricketts:Great. That's great. Um, to what do you attribute the larger recognition and embrace of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, which passed with overwhelming bipartisanship and public support?
Aminta Breaux:Well, I do think it's been an evolution, uh, for the longest time, as you know, many of our citizens never heard of Juneteenth, but I do think it comes with growing diversity in critical leadership roles in business, industry, education, where information is being more widely shared, bringing greater attention, uh, with the changes that we've seen with greater attention to our HBCUs, there is more dialogue around, uh, HBCUs and what they mean to history. There's been a more research conducted on social justice issues. The, uh, I would say a reawakening of interest in the black culture, in African-American history. And so it's been an evolution coming to this point. And then of course we have to recognize that we have the first vice president of these United States who is a graduate of an HBCU, and African-American a woman of color who highlights and, and just puts that finer point on the cultural aspects, uh, of our society that brings interest and curiosity. And so it's not as though Juneteenth, didn't, it, it wasn't known, especially in the African-American community, but it's become much more widely known through all of these, uh, evolutions in different sectors. And now with the election of the first VP of color, a woman, and there's just a lot of interests. And so to have Biden and Harris now bring this about for a national holiday that puts that fine point. Uh, and again, in increases even greater interest for, I would dare say, there's still people in this country who are scratching their heads and say, what is Juneteenth, but it helps highlight and bring attention and curiosity, uh, and, uh, to what it is and what it stands for. And reminding everyone about, again, that earlier point I made about our history in all its glory, but in those, um, other and the other aspects of our history in this country,
Lloyd Ricketts:Right. That's such a great perspective. Um, the question I have for you is, in what ways do you hope your institution's effort on diversity, equity, and inclusion will impact your current students and future students?
Aminta Breaux:Well, it is truly my hope that history will not repeat itself, that, uh, in learning our history, coming to terms with our history will help pave a brighter future for generations to come. That is my vision. When I think about, um, where we are today, I don't want my children and grandchildren and their children and future generations to have to go back over these issues. These biases, the issues of discriminatory practices, the have, and the have-nots, the wealth gap and all of these challenges, I would like to ensure that we have long lasting systemic change that puts this country in a better position to lead the world in innovation, in all, and really finally recognize and come to terms with what we have said we want to be and who we are with truly who we are as a nation, recognizing the great potential we have in our citizens and their unique abilities to drive change and innovation and lead the world. But for over 150 years, our graduates said Bowie State University have provided a huge value. And yet I know that there are many who don't know about Bowie State University. I want to change that. I want, as we say, here on the campus, our students, our graduates to be Bowie bold, go out and let the world know about all the excellence that I see, but I want them to leave their footprint here and on our country and make sure that they continue to lead our great nation to a greater future. And, uh, I, I do think we can get there, but it's going to take a more comprehensive, intentional and systemic approach where we work with partners, as I just mentioned, uh, with Pricewaterhouse or Truest or Google and all the other partners, and with philanthropists who understand, like MacKenzie Scott, the value of giving back, because if we all just sit back and say, well, I got mine, you go get yours. I think that's going to be a recipe for a very bleak future. But I see in our students on our campus today, their strong interest. They're saying, Dr. Breaux, how can we bring about change? What can we do is very frustrating through this pandemic because we were in the stay at home orders. When we were seeing the social unrest and our students, they said, they're not staying at home. Yeah. They put on their mask, but they were marching in DC. They were there saying, I want my voice to be heard. I can't sit on the sidelines. And so I know our students want to make a difference. They want to bring about change this year. Um, for our first year seminar, we gave the choice of our first year students, uh, to choose themes. One of the themes was on entrepreneurship as we were talking. Um, but they had a choice of two other themes. One was on civic engagement and the other was on social justice. To delve deeply into these issues and why they're important today. And it was a great, great way for us to allow students to dialogue in the classroom, whether it be virtual or in-person to dialogue around these issues. So not sweep it under the carpet or say, well, we'll deal with that when you come back from the pandemic. We faced that head on. And we gave our first year students that choice. We continue to have civic engagement opportunities. We continue to have in-person, uh, co-curricular opportunities on the campus in spite of all the challenges. So what I know is that if we can do all of that through this pandemic, the future is bright because of our students and their capabilities because of Bowie State University, and what we have provided for over 150 years. And because I do think there's a new momentum in this country to say, not again, not on my watch, we're going to do something about this. And I believe higher education has a vital role to play in that.
Lloyd Ricketts:Wonderful. Dr. Breaux, I really want to thank you for sharing your perspective with us today for the work you've already done. And I know we'll, you'll continue to do to advance issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, not only at your institution, but at the broader community. You know, um, I strongly believe that, you know, the type of leadership you've shown and your commitment to these areas, this should serve as a model within our higher ed community. I really, really deeply appreciate you taking the time out this morning to have this discussion and wish you all the best.
Aminta Breaux:Thank you so very much. And thank you to middle states for having me today and best wishes to all as we embark on a new normal, but I believe higher ed is ready and prepared to lead the way. Thank you.
Lloyd Ricketts:Thank you. To our listeners. Thank you for joining us. If you want the Commission to highlight the efforts of your institution in a future podcast, then please visit M S C H E.org/pillars of change to submit your suggestion. On behalf of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and our guest, Dr. Aminta Breaux. I'm Lloyd Ricketts, saying thank you and have a great day.[inaudible].