Greetings!
What can we do?
This question has come up often for Surge, both internally and externally, as we consider the harm racial inequity continues to inflict. Many are left with a sense of hopelessness upon hearing news of everything from threats against truth-telling in schools to falling test scores and a mass exodus of educators due to the toll of a pandemic that wages on.
What can we do?
The fellows and alumni of Surge programs nationwide are responding to that question. They are connecting, creating, and growing.
We've seen alums step into key institutional leadership roles, as was the case for Dr. Jennifer Collier ('19) who became interim superintendent for Kansas City Public Schools, or Christopher Goins ('16), who became President of Girard College in Philadelphia. We also have alums seeking seats in public office to drive policy change, like Nicole Carey ('21) candidate for the Indianapolis Public Schools Board, Kyra Mungia (‘19) candidate for Oakland School Board, and Brandon Best ('22), candidate for the DC State Board of Education (with an endorsement from The Washington Post).
The energy around change continues to swell, so when we ask the question “what can we do?” the answer is clear. Unify. Lead. Make an Impact. Our annual online giving event #SurgeForMore, officially kicks off later this month, but we’ve decided to open up our donation form early! As you explore this newsletter, please consider giving. Support the work you believe in and Surge for more of what inspires you.
In community,
