Equity department eliminated, Indigenous Biz Con returns & four basketball players you need to see

Here’s a look back at the stories that shaped our community this week.

365 Amplified: Madison College has a new president

On this week's 365 Amplified, Omar and Rob talk through a tense Common Council session on a new men's homeless shelter that ended in confrontations between alders and protesters. Then, we go over a change at the University of Wisconsin, where the Office of Human Resources has eliminated its Equity, Inclusion and Employee Wellbeing Department, and what that might mean for the university's faculty and staff.

Then, new Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne joins the show to discuss her vision for the college, how it fits into the fabric of the community, and how it can empower more students. And she notes two things about Madison that surprised her -- the second of which you will never guess.

• UW eliminates HR Department of Equity, Inclusion and Employee Wellbeing — The University of Wisconsin has dissolved its HR unit focused on equity and inclusion, raising questions about the school’s commitment to workplace culture and belonging.

• Van Orden, dairy leaders push for visa reforms at World Dairy Expo — Congressman Derrick Van Orden joined dairy leaders in Madison to call for reforms to the H-2A visa program, which farmers say doesn’t meet the year-round needs of the industry.

• As Common Council plans new homeless shelter, activists push to keep Dairy Drive campsite open — While the city moves toward a new purpose-built shelter, community advocates want to preserve the existing encampment as an option for unhoused residents.

• Chefs from across the world converge for first annual Jerk Jollof Cookoff Competition at Black Business Hub — The Black Business Hub was filled with global flavors as chefs showcased culinary traditions from Africa and the Caribbean at a lively food competition.

• The GenXpats: Longtime Madison couple forge a new life in Ecuador — Karen and Jonathan Brown share their journey of leaving the U.S. behind and beginning a new chapter abroad.

• Indigenous Biz Con returns to Milwaukee Oct. 13–14 — One of the largest gatherings of Native entrepreneurs and leaders in the Midwest is back this month, fostering growth and opportunity in Indigenous business.

• The Cost of Clarity: Why Most Leaders Avoid Their True Calling — In this column, Henry Sanders explores why clarity of purpose can feel so costly, and why too many leaders shy away from it.

• Four players you need to see this season — From standout athletes to emerging talents, these are the players to watch in Madison-area sports.

• MGE will host Día de Fútbol at Breese Stevens Field Saturday — Madison Gas & Electric partners with community groups to celebrate Latino culture and soccer with a family-friendly event.

And in other news …

• 37 people arrested and American kids separated from parents after ICE raid at Chicago apartments 

• One City Schools unveils new vans dedicated to community leaders 

• Bad Bunny to headline Super Bowl LX halftime show 

• “Unjust Deeds” racial covenants exhibition coming to Sequoya Library in October 

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