Welcome to the transformative journey presented in Courageous Gardening: Equity-Minded Leadership in Higher Education. Authored by the insightful duo, Susan C. Turell and Maria Thompson, this workbook serves as a masterclass for those aspiring to cultivate an equitable environment in their academic institutions. The metaphor of gardening intricately parallels the processes of self-exploration and institutional growth, offering readers a unique lens through which to view their roles as leaders.

In this workbook, the authors challenge you to move beyond superficial solutions. Instead of providing easy tips and tricks, Turell and Thompson guide you in developing a robust equity mindset—a critical tool for navigating the complexities of power dynamics and institutional inequities. The readings and case studies embedded within the workbook encourage deep reflection, pushing you to examine the privileges that exist in your environment and how they influence the educational landscape.

The feedback from educational leaders speaks volumes about the workbook’s impact. Sue Rankin, President of Rankin Climate, emphasizes how Turell and Thompson encapsulate the essence of engaging in transformational change. The garden metaphor becomes a powerful tool, prompting both self-reflection and institutional assessment—vital components for genuine systemic transformation.

Furthermore, Carlos N. Medina, Ed.D., highlights the workbook’s compelling nature, noting its ability to guide readers through the complex and nuanced landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in higher education. For those seeking a practical roadmap to initiate meaningful and sustainable changes in DEI, this workbook emerges as an essential resource.

Usheevii King, Assistant Vice Provost at New York University, praises Courageous Gardening as a masterpiece. The book effectively explains what it means to embody an equity-minded leader while providing engaging case studies and activities that keep readers involved in the learning process. King particularly recommends chapters 5 and 10, asserting that they will become invaluable references in the journey towards cultivating change.

As you delve into this workbook, you will find that it not only equips you with the necessary tools to critically examine your own landscape but also inspires you to create a nurturing environment for equitable growth. Embrace the challenge and start your gardening journey towards equity-minded leadership today.