Aquan Grant-Wayne
“It’s time to learn. It’s time to change. It’s time to build. Joining the Surge Academy Detroit cohort marks a new chapter in my journey—one rooted in bold dreams, collective…
Jasmine Brooks
“As a Surge Fellow, my goal is to join in community with other professionals who are black and brown and committed to creating and contributing to the ecosystem in our…
Liz Van Hoesen
“As the principal of a turnaround school in Detroit, my mission goes beyond improving test scores; it’s about transforming mindsets. Every person who walks through our doors plays a role…
Jessica Haynes
“As an educator, advocate, and systems leader, I’ve spent my career fighting for the dignity and brilliance of Black and Latinx youth. Now, more than ever—when truth is under attack…
Erica Lopez Negrete
Erica Lopez Negrete | Senior Director of Multilingual Education and World Languages, Detroit Public Schools Community District
Anneatra Kaplan
“Surge means the world to me. It’s an opportunity for US to grow personally and professionally with like-minded individuals to better OUR communities—our children!! I hope to leave Surge with…
Amber Harrison
Amber Harrison | Scholars Over Everything (non-profit)
Aisha Greene
“I’ve seen firsthand how the right leadership can transform what’s possible for our students. I’ve also learned that real change happens when we combine high expectations with genuine support—for students…
Surge Institute Welcomes the 2026 Detroit Cohort
Detroit’s Newest Cohort: 20 Educational Leaders Ready to Transform Detroit’s Educational Landscape DETROIT (September 11, 2025) — Surge Institute’s Academy Detroit is thrilled to welcome its second Detroit cohort, a…
Dr. Nicole Billings
“Being part of the Surge Fellowship is both an honor and a responsibility. I chose Surge because it creates space for leaders of color to be authentic while working for…