Thursday, October 19, 2023

5:00pm Opening Reception | Keim Center

6:00pm Dinner | Keim Center | Sponsored by Strategenius
Keynote Presentation | Caroline Blackwell, Vice President Equity and Justice, National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)

9:00pm Adjourn

Friday, October 20, 2023

7:00am Yoga | Angela Miklavcic | Wellness Studio in the Olander Center for Student Life

8:00am Professional Headshots with Shaw Photography  

8:15am Continental Breakfast | Olander Center for Student Life

8:45am A Few Words from Kyle Farmbry, President of Guilford College

9:00am Head of School Panel Discussion | Dr. Ayesha Swinton, Moderator | Sponsored by Guilford College
Karen Cumberbatch, Carolina Friends School (Durham, NC)
Imana Sherrill, Trinity Episcopal School (Charlotte)
Monica Rodriguez, Montessori School of Raleigh (Raleigh)
Crissy Caceres, Brooklyn Friends School (Brooklyn, NY)

10:00 am Break

10:15 am Breakout Session I | Select One

Yes. You Can Measure It: Understanding The Relationship Between Racial Stress, Racial Literacy, And Belonging | Jackson Collins
Dr. Collins will present the findings of his mixed-methods research study on the experiences of students of color who attend predominantly white independent schools. The findings will illuminate specific areas of student support and specific pain points for students of color who attend predominantly white institutions. The data (the numbers and narratives) will be a catalyst for discussing how we can measure and improve advocacy, equity, and communication within our school communities. 

The Pathway to Headship is Rarely a Straight Line | Imana Sherrill
Transitioning from Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Division Head, or Senior Administrator roles to a Head of School position in an Independent School can be a rewarding and complex journey. The experiences gained in these prior roles can set you up for success in your next leadership role. Let's explore how these roles intersect and contribute to your readiness for a Head of School position. We will also explore choosing the right search firm, current data on Heads of Color, and a few lessons learned.

You Have a Story - Now Tell It: How BIPOC Candidates Can Show Your Best Self in Your Search, Cover Letter, Resume, and Interview | Brandon Jacobs and Heather Flewelling, Carney, Sandoe, & Associates
Whether it is your first or your tenth time, starting and looking for the next opportunity can be hard. Telling THE story of what makes you a talent and cultural add for schools and communities is critical to taking the next step in your SEARCH process. In this session, Carney, Sandoe & Associates consultants will discuss best practices for designing your resume, creating the ideal cover letter, and showing your best self during an interview. The facilitators will present to and engage with participants, exploring ways to break down the three phases of the hiring process and address strategies to make your candidacy speak for itself.

11:15am Keynote Session | 33 Years in Independent School Leadership: Lessons Learned | Mark Reed, Managing Director, The John M. Belk Endowment

12:15pm Lunch | Affinity Groups | Danielle S. Ferguson & Wanda Carr, Co-hosts

1:30pm Keynote Session | Self-Care During Social Change | Liza Talusan
Self-care is a response to conditions that require us to create separate spaces for relaxation and recharging. But what if we addressed the root of the problem -- oppressive conditions -- in partnership with feeling more connected to ourselves? For example, we have normalized working 16-hour days, engaging in supportive roles, and this “all-or-nothing” approach in the spirit of “doing good work.” Yet, we know the physical, social, psychological, and emotional tolls of avoiding self-care. This session is focused on the difficult work of dismantling problematic cultures that contribute to oppressive conditions and work habits.

2:30pm Closing Speaker & Interactive Session | Crissy Caceres, Brooklyn Friends Head of School

3:45pm Adjourn