“I’m at a point in my career where I want to scale both my impact and my clarity. I’ve spent years doing meaningful, equity-centered work—in education, community engagement, and organizational leadership. But I know that the next phase of my journey requires deeper alignment, sharper strategy, and a stronger network of people who are both brilliant and bold enough to reimagine systems.
Surge stands out because it doesn’t just develop leaders—it affirms who we already are while stretching who we’re becoming. I’m drawn to the authenticity and unapologetic approach of the Surge community. I want to be sharpened, challenged, and surrounded by people who hold both vision and accountability.
As a Surge Fellow, I hope to refine my theory of change, strengthen the narrative around my leadership, and position myself for long-term influence—whether that’s through executive leadership, public policy, entrepreneurship, or all three. I want to walk away from Surge with not just tools and language, but with a community that sees me, pushes me, and grows with me.”
Nyanatee Bailey | DEI Director, University of Michigan