Planting the Seeds of Inclusive Communities
Panel: Intersectionality
What is intersectionality? How does it show up in our daily lives? Hear from local communities' members and they share stories and experiences of the intersectionality in their lives.
Moderator: Jenn Aranda, University of MN Extension
Dr. Jennifer Aranda is an Assistant Professor with the University of Minnesota Extension, Center for Community Vitality, and is a resident of Moorhead, Minnesota. Her background includes service, and community-building with a focus on marginalized populations, particularly in rural and greater Minnesota. Jennifer has worked with community-based organizations, non-profits, and higher education institutions to explore the many facets of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, provide training, and facilitate dialogue that builds pathways leading to change. As an educator for Leadership and Civic Engagement, Jennifer is an advocate for projects that promote an enhanced understanding of social equity and social justice. Aranda holds an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator License, is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and is a certified English as a Foreign Language instructor.
Panelists: Adam Sparrow, Brainerd Lakes Pride, and Cash Robinson, Central Lakes College
Cash Robinson is a Florida native residing in the Brainerd Lakes area, with his educational journey starting at Central lakes College. After graduating in 2013, he attended The College St. Scholastica earning a bachelor's degree in Social Work and Organizational behavior. His working career started in the summer of 2015, working as a Youth Care Professional for a treatment facility. Becoming a case manager, a year later within the same organization. He’s also three-time alumni. From CLC, TRIO student support services (SSS), and St. Scholastica. Cash later became the second person in CLC history to win the TRIO’s achievers award in 2017, chosen from 69 programs throughout the state. Cash is now in pursuit of his Master’s in social work (MSW) at St. Cloud state university. Some of Cash’s many hobbies include playing semi-pro football, golf, drawing, and writing/recording music.
Adam Sparrow is the co-founder and Executive Director of Brainerd Lakes Pride as well as Mayor of the City of Pillager. He has a passion for supporting LGBTQIA+ people, like himself, in rural communities and also for travel. SomedayheI would love to combine these two passions to be able to make a larger impact.
