With a profound commitment to advancing knowledge in DEIA and AI in higher education, Dr. Locust's research bridges theory and practice. His publications contribute valuable insights that drive innovation and promote inclusive excellence
These works explore the relationship between student engagement, cognitive development, and retention in higher education

Books:
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Influence of Involvement and Cognitive Ability on College Retention (2014) Jonathan Locust and Oscar T McKnight Examines the relationship between student involvement, cognitive ability, and retention among minority students.
Dr. Locust’s research addresses key factors influencing student success, graduation rates, and DEIA impact within academic environments.

Peer-Reviewed Publications:
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Locust Jr, J.E. (2019). Examining the Institutional Factors Related to African American Graduation Rates and Return on Investment. The Journal of Education Research and Interdisciplinary Studies.
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Locust Jr, J.E. (2017). An Outcome Study Examining the Institutional Factors Related to African-American College Graduation Rates and Return on Investment. (Doctoral dissertation, University of Toledo).
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Kaltenbaugh, L.P., Parsons, J., Brubaker, K., Bonadio, W., & Locust, J. (2017). Institutional Type and Campus Recreation Department Staff as a Mediating Factor for Diversity/Multicultural Training. Recreational Sports Journal.
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Locust, J., & McKnight, O. (in press). Examining the Influence of Student Involvement and Cognitive Ability on College Retention. Journal for Multicultural Education.
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Kaltenbaugh, L.P., Locust, J., Parsons, J., Brubaker, K., Bonadio, W. (2014). Examining Diversity/Multicultural Training Among Campus Recreation Departments. Recreational Sports Journal.
These papers reflect Dr. Locust’s contributions to DEIA and AI in education, sharing insights with academic and professional communities.

Conference Papers:
These presentations have provided attendees with practical strategies to integrate DEIA into their organizations, receiving consistently positive feedback for actionable insights

Presentations:
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AI & Black Student Success. Black Student Success Week, April 2024.
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Making Data Matter: Turning Data into Inclusive Action Planning. Minnesota State (MinnState) CDO Academy, July 2023.
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Community Engagement: Implementing and Measuring. Minnesota State (MinnState) CDO Academy, July 2023.
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Panel Discussion: Social & Racial Justice. ASA/OEI Conference, May 2023.
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You Want to Learn About DEI? Come Here! AFSCME and MAPE, May 2021.
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Cultural Sensitivity Training: What Makes You Culturally Competent? Cleveland Christian Home, September 2016.

