CSC Voices: Why We Belong is provided by the CSC Inclusion Committee
10 years of the CSC Inclusion Committee
Host Bridget Nash talks with Jessica Poole, former CSC president (2022–23) and founding chair of the committee, and Scottie Rodgers, vice president of communications for the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic and former chair, about the 10th anniversary of CSC’s Inclusion Committee.
They describe the “day zero” conversations that led to forming the first diversity and inclusion committee among NACDA affiliates, initially focused on Black representation, allyship, and candid problem-solving with a direct line to the board.
Key milestones include the 2020 racial and social justice initiative, updates to the committee’s mission/value statements, recognition from the Knight Commission, and the launch of the Inclusion Fellowship (now completing six years and entering year seven), plus Member Resource Communities introduced last year.
They emphasize lifelong learning, championing others, and creating spaces where members feel seen, heard, and valued.
00:00 Welcome and Setup
00:27 Meet Jessica Poole
01:47 Meet Scottie Rodgers
03:20 Day Zero Origins
08:35 Early Vision and Challenges
13:12 2020 Turning Point
17:19 Partnerships and Fellowship Launch
20:40 Leadership Lessons Learned
28:53 Leading Through Pushback
31:44 Inclusion Fellowship Deep Dive
37:50 Future Hopes and Closing
