Mosaic Talks
Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 11:00 am
Sadler Center
Mosaic Talks are 45-minute sessions that explore William & Mary’s growth and dedication to belonging, as told through the voices of its community members.
Entrepreneurial Thinking: The Journey of W&M Alumni Entrepreneurs (hour-long session)
Panel presentation
Dive into the minds of successful William & Mary alumni entrepreneurs as they share their unique journeys and insights. This session will explore the mindset and strategies that drive entrepreneurial success, offering firsthand perspectives on the support and resources available through the W&M Entrepreneurship Hub. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the entrepreneurial journey, this session promises to be both informative and inspiring.
Amplifying Marginalized Voices in Media
Speaker: Alex Cooper ’13
Representation matters, yet many stories remain unheard. Crim Dell Association advisory board member Alex Cooper ’13 draws from his experience at The Advocate — the oldest and largest LGBTQ+ publication in the U.S. — to explore the critical role of diverse voices in media. This session will examine how marginalized communities are often overlooked, the impact of inclusive storytelling and the importance of platforms dedicated to amplifying these narratives for meaningful social change.
Being the First
Speakers: Karen Ely ’71, L.H.D. ’18; Lynn Briley ’71, L.H.D. ’18; and Janet Brown Strafer ’71, M.Ed. ’77, L.H.D. ’18
Hear the unique and inspiring story of the first three African American residential students on W&M’s campus. They will discuss the challenges they faced, the triumphs they celebrated and the lasting impact of their experiences. This session offers a rare opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of breaking barriers, embodying change and creating a legacy of empowerment and representation.
Freedom To Hope Out Loud
Speaker: Janise Parker, associate professor of school psychology at the W&M School of Education
William & Mary is an institution that encourages faculty, staff and students to learn from the past, reflect on the present and create a more just future for all. Through honest conversations, reconciliation and innovation, members of the W&M community have a powerful opportunity to build a more unified world for generations to come. This talk, led by Janise Parker, will highlight and celebrate what it means to hope out loud at William & Mary during the 21st century.
A SUREfire Way To Succeed
Speaker: Katherine Barko-Alva, associate professor and director of the ESL/Bilingual Education program at the William & Mary School of Education
The William & Mary Scholars Undergraduate Research Experience (WMSURE) program is designed to support the academic and research endeavors of undergraduate students. Learn more about the various initiatives implemented to foster academic success, participation in research and community building among undergraduate scholars.
Breaking Barriers: Women in STEM
Speaker: Jessica Chen ’05
Women in science, technology, engineering and math continue to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in traditionally male-dominated fields. Join APIM Association advisory board chair Jessica Chen ’05 as she shares her journey of navigating the industry, reflecting on the unique experience of being both Asian and a woman in the field. This session will explore the skills, strategies and experiences that have shaped her path, offering insights for those looking to forge their own careers and support future generations of women in STEM.
The Establishment of the Hearth
Speaker: Jody Lynn Allen Ph.D. ’07, associate professor of history at W&M and Robert Francis Engs Director of The Lemon Project
Discover the profound history behind the establishment of the Hearth: Memorial to the Enslaved at William & Mary. Led by Jody Lynn Allen, this session will delve into the efforts to acknowledge and honor the enslaved individuals who contributed to the university’s history and growth over the years. Learn about the significance behind the Hearth’s design and the journey of reconciliation the memorial represents.
Storytelling for Inclusive Leadership
Presenter: Phil Wagner, clinical associate professor in organizational behavior at the Raymond A. Mason School of Business
Discover the power of your story and find new ways to create spaces where others’ voices are truly heard. Led by W&M professor Phil Wagner, this session will explore how shared narratives bridge differences, build trust and shape more inclusive teams. We’ll leave room for your creativity, experiences and curiosity to lead the way.