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Inspiring Ethical Leadership: NYSLOC4ED Unites Visionary Leaders in Nyack

Picture of Jasmine Graham-Cox Jasmine Graham-Cox : May 16, 2024

EdTech Leaders

Inspiring Ethical Leadership: NYSLOC4ED Unites Visionary Leaders in Nyack

On May 3rd and 4th, the New York State Leaders of Color Cohort (NYSLOC4ED) gathered for their final class in Nyack, NY. This momentous event brought together visionary leaders and esteemed speakers who shared invaluable insights and experiences, creating an atmosphere that inspired and invigorated participants.

The event featured an array of distinguished speakers, each contributing to the theme of continuous improvement and ethical leadership:

Dr. Eric J. Rosser, Superintendent of Poughkeepsie City School District, presented on "Action Planning for Continuous Improvement;"
Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of Rush-Henrietta Central School District, discussed "Continuous Improvement Toward Equitable Outcomes;"
Dr. Pedro Roman, Superintendent of Hyde Park School District, shared his journey, "Rising Up- A Superintendent’s Journey from Humble Beginnings to Ethical Leadership;"
Dr. Harold Coles, District Superintendent of Southern Westchester BOCES, explored "District’s Superintendent Searches;"
Dr. L. Oliver Robinson, Superintendent of Shenendehowa School District, delved into "Budget Development;" and,
Dr. Monique Darrisaw Akil, Superintendent of Uniondale Union Free School District, inspired "In Pursuit of the Courageous Leader."

We were honored to partner with Magma Math, Code to the Future, and New York Life, whose support was instrumental in this event's success.

Anibal Soler, Jr., Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, and Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, Superintendent of Port Chester Public Schools, skillfully led the facilitation. Special congratulations to Anibal Soler, Jr., on his new position as Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, which he commenced just days before our event.

One of the most cherished moments was the closing resonance, where cohort members, #ieifamily including myself, shared personal reflections. Centered around the cultural greeting of Sawubona (“I see you”), I expressed a profound realization: "It is way too easy to fold than to fight, but the acknowledgment of my experiences that I and many others face as a leader and individual matter. My story and my experiences matter to my journey as a leader. This shapes who I am." This shared sentiment was echoed by the powerful quote, "You were called for such a time as this."

The event was a highlight for many reasons, including the opportunity to stand as a woman of color among outstanding leaders who share the same vision, mission, and values for our work in education.

We are acutely aware of the disparities in the workplace and in education, challenges that we face daily alongside our students. The NYSLOC4ED Cohort has provided a safe haven and a nurturing community where we can openly share these challenges, collaborate on solutions, and learn from the trailblazing work of leaders who have come before us. This cohort represents a professional network and a family united by a common goal of advancing equity and excellence in education.

Together, we are confronting these disparities and actively working to dismantle the barriers that impede our progress and that of our students. The discussions and strategies developed during this cohort are a testament to our collective resilience and commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable educational environments.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to our CEO, Doug Roberts, for executing the vision many of us hold dear. I am thrilled to announce our continued partnership in the work for the next cohort, which begins in July.

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