Chanell Bates is VP of Talent at The Union of Philadelphia Futures & Steppingstone Scholars.

“I am excited to be considered for the first cohort of fellows for Surge in Philly. I am interested in working with a group of peers to engage in a continuous dialogue about our journeys through, and role in improving, the education landscape in Philadelphia. I believe Surge’s emphasis on cultivating the next generation of education leaders in Philadelphia is unique and compelling. If chosen as a Surge Fellow, I hope to leave with a sense of possibilities for impact, and a deeper understanding of how to navigate the space as an authentic, joyful, black woman.”