Brian Harris is a Postsecondary Coach at Chicago Public Schools. “I believe the most important word in education is ‘we’. This is important in two contexts. First, who is the “we” with respect to the young people and community and young people you are serving? Second, who is the “we” with respect to the community…
Natasha Hamilton is Senior Director of Secondary Partnerships at OneGoal. “The Surge Fellowship is a movement towards creating greater equity, visibility, and representation of leaders of color in Chicago’s complex educational landscape. It is a paradigm shift and an act of resistance that elevates the strengths of Chicago’s future black and brown leaders. I see…
Vanessa Gutierrez is a Research Analyst II at the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research. “I chose Surge to be part of a community of leaders of color who are ready for our communities not only heal but flourish. I am excited about this opportunity to make a greater impact!”
Ada Gomero is a Learning Officer at the MacArthur Foundation. “When I see and hear the Surge movement, I see a coalescence of strong relationships, brilliant people, and an unbending will to make a positive change for impact on students’ lives. These relationships, manifested in a sense of community, is what leads me to apply…
Shondele Gillens is an Instructional Leader at Legacy Charter School. “I chose Surge because I want to be a part of a movement driven by the call to reduce unnecessary struggles for scholars that look like me. I want to be a part of a movement that cultivates my ideas for reform and passion to…
Mildred Garcia Gomez is the Dean of Students at Chicago Public Schools. “Being a Guatemalan immigrant woman in America is a daily challenge that I oftentimes feel like I am navigating on my own. I want to be a part of the Surge movement because I need a holistic program that supports the development and…
Derrick Fleming, Jr. is the Managing Director of Strategic Engagement at Chicago Scholars. “When I think of the Surge Fellowship, the countless Surge events that I have attended, and the Surge staff and fellows I’ve met over the years; they all have one thing in common; they all want to create a world that is…
Robbie Curry is the Founder & CEO of at The MARCUS Literacy Project, Inc. “The Surge Fellowship is an opportunity to work closely and engage with people to articulate and advance a common cause. It’s an opportunity for really passionate and smart people to meet other really passionate and smart people. It’s an empowering space…
Lilly Cruz is the Senior Director of Networks at Leading Educators. “A movement is needed for Latinx and Black educational leaders to not only be seen but also be developed and given the influence and power we deserve, especially in the educational realm, which we have so much to contribute to. I am ready to…
Emilia Chico is the Founder & Principal Consultant at Chico Consulting Group. “As an educator with a history of organizing, I have always felt a sense of struggle and a desire for transformation at my core. However, after spending far too long in academia, my courageous, radical voice has been stifled and I am looking…