Overcoming Multiple Challenges to Raise Other's Voices: Meet VP for Inclusion and Equity at Grand Valley State University, Dr. Jesse Bernal

In Dr. Jesse M. Bernal's roles as Vice President for Inclusion and Equity and Chief of Staff to the President at Grand Valley State University, Jesse has overseen strategy and innovation while embedding DEI principles into all facets of the university. He is committed to creating spaces that value and uplift marginalized voices, offering support and opportunities for all, regardless of their backgrounds. Jesse’s journey has propelled him to be a dedicated advocate for equity, inclusion, and social justice.

Personal/professional story:

Raised in South Texas, Jesse grew up in a poor, mostly Mexican immigrant community. His family faced food insecurity and struggled to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, Jesse’s mother and grandmother worked tirelessly to provide for their family. Jesse’s grandmother was a janitor at a local hospital until her later years, highlighting her unwavering work ethic.

Jesse’s experience growing up in a community affected by generational inequity left a profound impact on him. His father, burdened by addiction struggles and a lifetime in the prison system, passed away at a young age, emphasizing the long-lasting repercussions of systemic inequities on individuals and families.

As a student at a small, under-resourced school, Jesse encountered a range of challenges. Although some teachers were dedicated to their students’ learning, the lack of resources hindered learning opportunities. Jesse’s education continued at a predominantly white and selective college where he excelled as the opinion editor of the campus newspaper and founded a Latino Student Association. However, he also experienced alienation and demonization for keeping his sexual identity a secret, which was required by school policy.

After college, Jesse worked at the University of California, where he was an advocate for institutional support in the face of a campus climate crisis marked by multiple hate crimes and climate concerns. Jesse’s journey ultimately led him to Grand Valley State University, where he was inspired by the opportunity to work with the community to transform DEI work from a diversity-centered approach to a social justice and equity model.

What key moments in your life led you to where you are today??

Many key moments in my life have shaped me into the leader I am today. One significant factor has been the unwavering support of dedicated faculty members who played a crucial role in my personal and professional development. Their mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my trajectory.

Additionally, my experiences in shared governance have been transformative. I believe in the power of student voices and their role in university governing. This belief led to my appointment as the Student Regent for the University of California Board of Regents. In this position, I had the privilege of advancing important discussions surrounding the rights and needs of marginalized communities within the university system.

One area that I specifically focused on was advocating for undocumented community members, student veterans, students struggling with mental health challenges, low-income families, and LGBTQ youth. By amplifying their voices and championing their causes, I aimed to create a more inclusive and equitable environment within the educational space. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the power of advocacy and the importance of creating spaces where all students can thrive.

Through my commitment to social justice and equity, supported by dedicated faculty and my involvement in shared governance, I have been able to carve a path that aligns with my values and aspirations. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to make a positive impact and I remain steadfast in my commitment to shaping a better future for all.

Where does your passion to serve come from?

My passion to serve is deeply rooted in the lessons I learned growing up, where faith and family were prioritized above all else. In my Mexican heritage, there is a strong belief in the importance of community and family, and the interconnectedness of our lives. There is a saying that resonates deeply with me: “Mi casa es su casa” which translates to “My house is your house."?

This belief instilled in me the understanding that we have a responsibility to give back to our community and uplift those who come after us. It is not enough to simply succeed individually; we must also strive to create opportunities for others to succeed. This mindset has shaped my passion for service and my desire to make a positive impact on those around me.

Growing up, I witnessed the strength and resilience of my family as they faced various challenges. Despite these adversities, they not only supported one another but also extended that same support to others in need. This spirit of generosity and compassion has been ingrained in me, and I carry it with me in every endeavor.

In my journey, I carry with me a deep appreciation for the individuals who have stood by my side, offering their unwavering support and guidance. Their mentorship and encouragement have been priceless, serving as a driving force behind my commitment to uplift others and be a resource for those in need. I firmly believe in the significance of the support and mentorship provided by supervisors, including three university presidents, and my other colleagues, in personal and professional growth. My valued colleagues have been there for me, offering their expertise, feedback, and valuable insights, enabling me to navigate complex challenges and develop crucial skills. The culture of continuous learning, innovation, and improvement fostered by their collective wisdom and mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey and nurturing my personal and professional growth along the way.

My passion to serve is a continuous reminder of the obligation we have to our community and the importance of lifting each other up. It is the driving force that compels me to advocate for equity, inclusion, and social justice in everything I do. By serving others, I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to a brighter and more equitable future for all.

How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?

GlobalMindED can be instrumental in helping advance the things that are important to me by providing a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through its events, resources, and network, GlobalMindED offers opportunities to connect with fellow educators, thought leaders, and innovators who share my passion for creating a more equitable and inclusive world. Additionally, its focus on cross-industry collaboration can provide unique perspectives and strategies for tackling complex challenges. By engaging with GlobalMindED, you can gain access to the tools, networks, and support needed to drive meaningful change in the areas I am passionate about.

You can meet inclusive leaders like Dr. Bernal at GlobalMindED June 17-19 in Denver.