Episode 4

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Published on:

21st Aug 2026

Turning Climate Data into Strategic Action

In this episode, Dr. Joi Patterson and Dr. Amy Vujaklija discuss the importance of aligning organizational values with daily experiences, particularly in educational settings. They emphasize the need for leaders to transform climate survey data into meaningful action through transparency, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and continuous improvement. Joi highlights the significance of storytelling and celebrating progress, while Amy stresses the importance of aligning survey findings with existing strategic plans. They both agree that transparency and communication are crucial for building trust and fostering a positive organizational climate. The conversation concludes with a call to action for continuous improvement and better alignment of culture and values.

Music: https://soundcloud.com/zack-brown-290928439/calm-background-for-video-121519?si=cb2fa8f66d914b7797eb3a463e5797e5&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

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About the Podcast

Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi
A podcast supported by Governors State University
Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi is a podcast supported by Governors State University. This outreach to educators began in November of 2020 as Teaching and Learning: Theory vs Practice in the midst of a global pandemic and continues today as we shift to a new normal. We talk to guests from every aspect of education -- teachers, students, administrators, support personnel, and parents. You will hear a range of educators and topics, all of them with lasting relevance to our ongoing work of bringing attention to education and elevating the importance of diversity and inclusion. Whether you are a first time or long-time listener, you will enjoy interviews with local, national, and international guests on topics such as historical and cultural identities, community engagement, restorative justice, and leadership. Join us in our goal to promote continuous improvement in teaching and lifelong learning.

About your hosts

Amy Vujaklija

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Dr. Amy Vujaklija, Director of Educator Preparation, Accreditation, and Assessment is a former middle and high school teacher and continues to stay active in teacher recruitment and retention.
As an Illinois Writing Project leadership team member and co-director, she facilitates member outreach and local conferences and workshops. Dr. Vujaklija’s research interests use qualitative narrative inquiry to explore the lived experience of teacher leadership and student learning.
Contact: avujaklija@govst.edu

Joi Patterson

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Dr. Joi Patterson, Chief Diversity Officer, has over twenty-five years of experience in K-12 and Higher Education, serving in various administrative roles in higher education from Program Director to Provost.

Dr. Patterson is a teacher practitioner, starting as a middle school bilingual science teacher to tenured faculty in higher education, where she maintains a mission to increase enrollment, graduation, funding, accountability, and opportunities for all students.