“Surge is the community I never knew how much I needed, but now can’t imagine being without it. Surge has given me the courage to tap into my true passion, to walk in my power, and to show up in every space authentically on behalf of our children and communities because they deserve nothing less…
“The Surge Fellowship is the quintessential embodiment of what it means to cultivate excellence among education leaders of color. It represents the gold standard of a movement that empowers black and brown education professionals to transform our current educational landscape. The calculated curation of this experience is what sets it apart from any other career…
“Surge was a mirror that made me truly see my potential and myself. I was challenged in many ways and had to confront the person in that mirror. Surge helped me address my insecurities, flaws, strengths and triumphs. My life was changed with Surge, and I equate my reimagined leadership journey with the many skills…
“Surge has allowed me to experience and gain exposure to awe-inspiring and tremendous talent. The speakers were conveyors of knowledge imparting wisdom that struck high and low chords of self-awareness and consciousness. My fellow Surge Fellows forged bonds that forever connect us to a conscientious choice to not only demand a seat at the table…
“Surge is a movement all about preparing leaders of color for a seat at the table and ensuring that we understand why that seat needs our voice. Surge is building a narrative in Chicago — and in any space where we lead — that the face of education reform leadership is authentic, black, brown, excellent…
“My experience in the Surge Fellowship has put an imperative on my commitment to excellence and has deepened my commitment to authentic leadership. Through the Surge Fellowship I have learned to channel my passion to maximize impact – and that heart skills are just as important as hard skills. I have learned that my lived…
“The Surge Fellowship has played such an unexpected positive role in my life, both personally and professionally. This amazing experience has pushed me to focus inward and evaluate why I am drawn to the work that I do with and for young people. It has also helped me in acknowledging and valuing the special set…
“Surge is a truly transformational experience that gave me the confidence and skills to lead on my own terms. I know the value of my unique story and am proud to be part of a movement dedicated to increasing access and opportunity for black and brown students in Chicago and across the nation.”
“The Fellowship experience has been awesome for me both professionally and personally: Professionally, I have deepened my understanding of both technical and adaptive skills. I have become a stronger, more confident, and more connected leader. Personally, I have come to realize that we each have a unique set of gifts and talents; and we cannot…
“The Surge Fellowship rejuvenated my passion for social justice. By challenging me to think critically about my leadership, the Fellowship empowered me to take more ownership of my development and take greater risks. I’ve learned how to lead as a woman of color and use my background as a catapult. The skills, confidence, and awareness…