Yesterday, our Communities In Schools Board Chair, Greg Hobby, shared the news that I will be stepping down from my role as President and CEO effective June 30, 2020. Here is a bit more about my decision and the overwhelming gratitude I feel for all who have been part of this extraordinary journey.
During my time with the organization, CIS has evolved and grown beyond my expectations. We have supported tens of thousands of students, created nationally recognized work, partnered with hundreds of organizations and individuals, co-created a culture focused on relationship-building and equity, and developed numerous opportunities for our team members to grow and lead in the community. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished and learned together.
There is more to do. Our next strategic plan has been developed with input from nearly 1,000 stakeholders and sets our vision through 2024. It seeks to
sustain
the progress we have made,
deepen
our support of students, families and our team, and
grow
our impact. It is a vision that demands resources, energy and innovation. It demands the very best team, and I am confident that we have just that. It also deserves a President and CEO committed to seeing the plan through and who has additional perspective to look even further towards the future of CIS.
After nine years of working with the very best team, I have decided that is it time to consider my next chapter and assist CIS as we transition to a new President and CEO. Over the coming months, I will be working with our Board of Directors to prepare for my departure.
There is no good time to leave an organization, mission and people you love but I will leave knowing that CIS is where we are today because of our collective team – our students, our CIS team members, Board of Directors, partners and supporters. I am grateful for so many who wake up every day and see the greatness in our kids and believe that every one of our students deserves to fulfill their potential. Being part of our CIS team has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. And the people involved have taught me how to lead from my heart, nurture what is good in the world, recognize inequity, fight for justice, and share power. I am a better person because of Communities In Schools. Thank you.
