Kala Stepter
Kala Stepter is an 8th Grade Math Teacher at East Bay Innovation Academy. “As leaders of color in the education field, we have faith in our students and our communities.…
Naomi Wilfred
Naomi Wilfred is a Teacher at Chicago Public Schools – National Teachers Academy. “Surge is an opportunity to make real change. I am excited to work with like-minded educators and creating…
Ángel L. Vélez
Ángel L. Vélez is a Research Associate at the Office of Community College Research and Leadership – University of Illinois. “The Surge Fellowship creates the space to interrogate and investigate…
Jessica Sullivan-Wilson
Jessica Sullivan-Wilson is the Director, Community Affairs at Teach for America, Greater Chicago-Northwest Indiana. “I want to be in a space where I am allowed the opportunity to learn, create,…
Miguel Rodriguez
Miguel Rodriguez is the Assistant Principal at KIPP Chicago – Bloom College Prep. “Now, more than ever, being part of a movement like Surge is critical to realizing a more equitable…
Marshana Pace
Marshana Pace is the Director of Investments at A Better Chicago. “My personal mission is to ensure children of color can lead lives of their choosing instead of lives predetermined…
Jessica Ramos
Jessica Ramos is the Director of Community Engagement at Advance Illinois. “There is true power in being in community with people that understand the importance of fighting for systemic transformation. We…
Rigo Padilla Pérez
Rigo Padilla Pérez is a College and Career Coach at Chicago Public Schools – Solorio Academy High School. “I feel that I am at a point in my life where I…
Danielle McConnell
Danielle McConnell is the Director of Program at One Million Degrees. “The Surge Fellowship will impact my development as I identify sustainable ways to address system change that makes a valuable…
DeMarco Hughes
DeMarco Hughes is the Assistant Principal at Chicago Tech Academy. As an Assistant Principal, former youth basketball coach, mentor, and proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, DeMarco…