I chose Surge because I was ready to choose myself in every way. As an educator, I want the opportunity to learn alongside other educators of color invested in transforming our Chicago schools and communities. As a Black, queer woman, I desire to be a part of a fellowship with an inclusive mind and deep intentions to serve those who serve from the margins. As a professional with years of experience in coaching others in their academic and professional journeys, I knew it was time to seek out an experience that would encourage focus on my own evolution through an intentional space to re-examine and re-connect to my why. It is my hope that by participating in Surge I will find a new passionate community, establish new connections with organizations moving the education needle radically forward, and a window into more ways to revolutionize myself and education in Chicago.