EEB Department Chair Tom Near Featured on Yale College Voices Podcast

EEB Department Chair Tom Near appeared on the Yale College Voices podcast hosted by Darice Corey. In this conversation Tom’s journey from his difficult youth, marked by personal challenges, to becoming an influential leader within the Yale College community, dedicated to fostering an environment of representation and inclusivity. Tom shares his firsthand experiences and highlights significant achievements, such as the increased retention and representation of underrepresented groups in STEM majors due to programs like Yale’s Foundations of Biology course sequence. Furthermore, the discussion extends to the broader impact of having a diverse faculty, which not only enhances the learning environment but also significantly improves program rankings, creating a buzz of positive changes across campus. Moreover, the episode takes a personal turn as Tom recounts pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership and mentoring style. He emphasizes the value of empathy, understanding, and resilience in creating supportive spaces for students and professionals alike. His stories reveal the transformative power of embracing one’s past and using it to connect and lead with authenticity. This conversation also touches on broader systemic issues in higher education, such as the need for better representation of BIPOC students, reflecting on how these changes could foster a sense of belonging and encouragement among students. This episode of “Yale College Voices” presents a candid and inspiring exploration of how Tom’s personal history interweaves with his professional endeavors to produce environments where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. Join us as we uncover the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts to make Yale College a beacon of inclusivity and how such efforts can serve as a blueprint for other institutions striving toward similar goals.