Ascension is not a solitary act; it’s a shared journey. As we commemorate Surge’s 10th anniversary, we reflect on a decade of rising together and empowering leaders of color to transform education. At the 2025 Alumni Convening, we celebrate The Power of Ascension, this collective strength that has fueled our movement. Together, in Scottsdale, Arizona, we will breathe, bond, and bring to life the power of our shared vision as we prepare to rise to even greater heights. Through retreating, we replenish our strength. Through reflecting, we deepen our connection. And through reimagining, we shape the future of our communities.

Meet us in Scottsdale for a convening dedicated to amplifying our work, empowering our communities, and transforming the future of education!

To learn more about what’s included, costs, payment plans, and scholarship opportunities, visit our registration page.

The Convening

May 8-10, 2025

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

For 10 years Surge Institute has diligently been providing a space for educational leaders of color to breathe, think, release, bond, see themselves and be seen. The outcome is a coalition of leaders that are strong, healthy, focused, energized and transforming the educational landscape as we know it. And now the real adventure begins. This is the Power of Ascension!

The alumni convening was designed to further ignite and inspire the genius we have yet to birth by affirming the genius we already manifest. It is clear by the quality of experience that Surge both believes in our collective genius while simultaneously holding our history and humanity. I am better just by being in this space. The icing on the cake is that my daughter who was traveling with me gets to see me surrounded by excellent Black and Brown leaders whose legacy is pointed toward creating pathways for the emerging brilliance of her generation and the ones after her.”

— Aija Simmons (OAK20) – reflection from 2023 alumni convening

SPONSORS

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

ALUMNI IMPACT TEAM

Tiara Wheatley

Vice President of Alumni Impact

tiara@surgeinstitute.org

José M. Andre Iniguez

Program Director, Alumni Impact

jose@surgeinstitute.org

Autumn Bryant

Alumni Program Manager

autumn@surgeinstitute.org