In the summer of 2018, we had the pleasure of interviewing Jerod Grant for the position of
Racial Equity Consultant. He immediately drew us in with his ability to connect to the audience
and his engaging presentation style. An exercise he introduced that day, incorporating music
and movement, is now a go-to for our in-person workshops. It would be just one of the many
ways Jerod made our team stronger over our five years together.
Those of you who have had the opportunity to work with Jerod know that he brings an
authentic way of connecting with workshop participants that is both kind and at the same time
challenges people to think critically through an equity lens. He has always held central to his
practice a concern for the wellbeing of People of Color and is skilled at holding space for
difficult conversations. One time, as we were welcoming people into a Zoom session, Ilsa
remembers Jerod asking them about details of their work and life he had seen in their
biographies. He took the time to research the people in this cohort not because it was a
requirement of the job, but because he takes a genuine interest in connecting with the stories
and experiences people bring.
As we’ve worked together over the past five years, we’ve seen him graduate with a master’s
degree, get married, and become the father of two children. We supported each other through
the pandemic and the global racial reckoning after the murder of George Floyd. We’ve
struggled, grown, critically reflected, and celebrated together.
At the end of the year, Jerod, our first employee, will be leaving Cultures Connecting. He will
forever hold a special place in our hearts.