Dr. Katherine Rowe, the first female president of William & Mary, shares her journey from a Shakespeare scholar to an entrepreneur and how this university aims to foster civic engagement and inclusivity. We explore the strategic plan, Vision 2026, which emphasizes access for first-generation students, hands-on learning experiences, and the importance of marine science.

- Introduction to Dr. Katherine Rowe and her diverse background
- Discussion on her attraction to the public mission of William & Mary
- Significance of William & Mary as a founding institution of American higher education
- Emphasis on inclusivity and access for first-generation college students
- Overview of the Vision 2026 strategic plan focusing on civic education
- The role of VIMS in addressing coastal and marine science issues
- Commitment to supporting student-athletes and the importance of holistic education
- Leadership style and support from Chancellor Robert Gates
- The integration of rigorous academics and community values at William & Mary

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Imagine growing up in a tight-knit waterman community and rising to lead one of Virginia's most crucial state agencies. This week, we're honored to have Jamie Green, Commissioner of the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, join us to share his inspiring journey. From his roots in Gloucester's commercial fishing heritage to his ascent in law enforcement, Jamie's career is a testament to dedication and perseverance. He opens up about the pressing challenges the local waterman community faces and VMRC's innovative solutions to combat coastal erosion and preserve Virginia's vital marshlands.

Ever wondered how labor shortages are reshaping the seafood industry in Virginia? Jamie sheds light on the essential role of H-2B visa workers and dispels common myths about their economic impact. We also dive into the historical labor struggles, from the infamous Oyster Wars to the Potomac River Fisheries Compact, highlighting the cooperation needed between Virginia and Maryland to manage resources and fight poaching. It's a deep dive into the heart of the seafood industry's labor dynamics and the longstanding efforts to ensure its sustainability.

Virginia's crab industry and catfish management in the Chesapeake Bay are also under the spotlight. Jamie guides us through the evolution of crab potting and the critical need for sustainable practices. We tackle the invasive blue catfish issue, introduced for sport but now a menace to the ecosystem, and discuss Delegate Keith Hodges' push for commercial harvesting as a solution. Wrapping up, we look toward the future of Menhaden management and aquaculture, emphasizing the importance of adaptive management in maintaining healthy fish populations. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on Virginia's marine resources—past, present, and future.

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What does it take to transition from a middle school civics teacher to one of the most influential political figures in Virginia? Join us as we welcome Kirk Cox, former Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, who shares his inspiring journey from the classroom to the legislature. Kirk recounts his early political involvement during the 1985 gubernatorial campaign of Wyatt Durrett, where he crossed paths with giants like President Reagan and President Bush. He shares valuable lessons on the importance of early political engagement and maintaining respectful relationships with political opponents, illustrated by heartfelt anecdotes and personal experiences.

From his humble beginnings teaching emotionally disturbed kids to his persistent door-knocking campaigns that led to a victory over Chip Dix, Kirk Cox's story is a testament to dedication and community engagement. In this episode, Kirk elaborates on his rise within the political ranks, discussing the complexities of power-sharing, committee leadership, and the essence of a citizen legislature. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of balancing his teaching career with legislative duties, shedding light on how his educational background provided invaluable insights into effective education policy.

We also dive into the nitty-gritty of legislative processes, leadership dynamics, and the critical role of higher education and workforce development in Virginia. Kirk emphasizes initiatives like "Growth for Virginia" and the transformative power of internships, particularly for first-generation and minority students. The conversation wraps up with Kirk's efforts to revitalize civics education, underscoring the need for a robust curriculum to foster well-informed, engaged citizens. Tune in to explore the multifaceted career of Kirk Cox and his lasting impact on Virginia's political and educational landscape.

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