Daniel Ibarrondo

What is your role at the college?

I joined Cambridge College as Associate Dean of Online Programming in August 2019. In addition to assisting in the administration of CC’s online courses, programs, and faculty, I also get involved in developing online partnerships, training on ground faculty and students for “connected learning,” and instructional design, among others.

Who or what has inspired you?

I was inspired by every aspect of my Harlem community and my 6^th grade teacher, Ms. Caroline Malinowski. One day in class she said, “You kids need to learn how to question everything!” That was an Aha! moment for me. That same day I started to question everything! Why am I witnessing so many murders at my young age? Why are drugs sold everywhere and even near police stations? Why are there so many gangs? Why doesn’t Harlem look like midtown Manhattan? Why are we poor? Why is this the worst part of the city? Why are there so many drug addicts and prostitutes in my building and surroundings? These questions led me to study the socio-economic, political and legal aspects of colonial communities in college, graduate school, and law school. I went back to Harlem as a lawyer to work with the National Conference of Black Lawyers (NCBL) as Director of their Community Organization Legal Assistance Project. There was a lot of love and support too growing up in Harlem. I loved the free school breakfast in elementary school provided by the Black Panthers and I have stories for decades!

What does racial equity and social justice mean to you?

The achievement of intentional racial equity involves all people accepting and acknowledging the histories of black and brown people and valuing our experiences. It requires the incorporation of those experiences into the development of new paradigms, new public policies, and new constructs. When we do this, we prioritize and advance humanity. It’s a difficult process for all, not impossible, but it needs to be done intentionally. Social justice is the process of achieving self-determination and being able to utilize this position of strength for collaborative action in advancing humanity. There is an increase of socio-emotional literacy nationally and I’m excited to see how this fuels racial equity and social justice.

What is your favorite book, poetry, documentary or other resource on Black history?

I am currently re-reading “Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson. The author grew up in South Carolina, lived in Ohio, and New York and recounts her history and experiences in the south and the east coast through poetry and prose. In the process of moving, the author learns that she has a passion for writing!

When I dream in Black, I…

dream of fellowship, community, unity, and possibility. A place where everyone is an equal contributor towards shaping what this world could truly be; where the strength and beauty that exists in our community can be celebrated by all. When I dream in Black I look back to the will, strength, and faith of all my ancestors and thank them for all they did to survive so that I may walk in step with all who gather with me, on the small part of my journey.