The Denver skyline stretched beneath snow-capped peaks as 8,200 educators, thought leaders, and students converged on the Colorado Convention Center, transforming it into an epicenter of educational innovation and transformation. The conference theme -- "Meeting the Moment: Anchoring and Enriching Our Education Futures" -- infused each moment with purpose, each conversation becoming a step toward meaningful change. My experience was enriched by sharing it with colleagues Megan, Zhen, Chris, and Josie, whose perspectives helped bridge theoretical concepts into practical strategies for our school community at Proctor. Through structured workshops and impromptu hallway conversations, we explored how independent schools can harness our unique autonomy as we reexamine and deepen our commitment to creating environments where students can authentically express themselves, explore their identities, and build lasting confidence.
Among the many inspiring workshop sessions and keynotes, Professor Kenji Yoshino's exploration of moral character left a lasting impression. He shared Dolly Chugh's concept of being "goodish" –- a framework that challenges the limiting binary of being either "good" or "bad" people. As Yoshino explained, when we cling to a fixed identity as a "good person," we often use it as a shield to deflect responsibility. Instead, Chugh's framework invites us to view our moral character on a fluid spectrum, where our actions can move us up or down. This "goodish" mindset creates space for both accountability and growth, acknowledging that we are all works in progress, capable of causing harm but also capable of acknowledging it, repairing it, and continuously striving to do better.
The conference's impact was amplified by the presence of our students, whose courage in sharing their experiences, hopes, and vision for a more inclusive Proctor left me both humbled and inspired. Their voices provided powerful reminders of why this work is so crucial. Equally meaningful were the spontaneous encounters with old friends in conference halls and workshop rooms – each conversation reinforcing that we're part of a larger community working toward more inclusive and equitable spaces for learning and growth.
As I reflect on this experience, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such incredible thought leaders and practitioners. Being an ally requires recognizing that, as educators, we are on a continuous journey of learning, listening, and acting. We return not just with new strategies and insights but also with renewed energy and determination to build a more equitable community through sustained effort, courage, and commitment. Let's keep these vital conversations going.
Faculty Reflection from the 2024 People of Color Conference
"I was blown away by several things. First, the overall energy - the atmosphere was continuously filled with emotion, a sort of vibration. Some of it came from listening to shared stories, some from the anticipation of effecting change, some from the affirmation of experience, and some from the deep place within us that is simply looking for connection. Second, the unintended harm our independent schools, which are primarily white spaces, cause our students of color and other marginalized groups is real, deep, and it is unacceptable. Lastly, the message of hope and joy that comes in doing the work of making the world and our schools a place where our racial and cultural difference is recognized, honored, and celebrated. The work is hard, necessary, and so incredibly worth it."
~ Megan Hardie, Dean of Community Life and Class of 2026 Dean
"Last year at the conference, I felt like an outsider who didn't quite belong. This year was different – I felt inspired to encourage Asian students to step out of their comfort zone and bring their voices to our community. When I brought this to the Asian Affinity Group, many students showed interest in the Student Diversity Leadership Conference. I believe they can make a real difference here."
"Having faculty and staff at the People of Color Conference is vital. Away from our busy school schedules, we connected with colleagues across departments and had meaningful conversations with students, especially during meals. These four days together made me reflect deeply – I need to do more to support student voices and examine my own unconscious biases. This was such a meaningful experience.”
~ Zhen Lei, International Student Coordinator, World Language
Student Reflections from the 2024 Student Diversity Leadership Conference
“I would 100% recommend this conference to others. It was so insightful and important and it’s such an amazing way to make connections. It’s a welcoming space to all and it’s something everyone should get to experience if possible.”
~ Khadija '25
"Every space I entered at SDLC, I experienced an overwhelming sense of sonder. It was a privilege to learn about people from different countries, races, religions, and backgrounds. It was comforting to be in a space where I was part of the majority and not the minority. Though we only spent two and a half days together, I quickly became close with my new friends – and I'm still in contact with students I met last year!"
"I would recommend this conference to students of all backgrounds because it was truly eye-opening. I wrestled with ideas, opinions, and topics that typically aren't discussed at Proctor. It was intriguing to hear people's experiences, especially from other prep schools – it helped me see both Proctor's strengths and where we can grow."
~ Olivia '25
Learn More About Equity and Belonging at Proctor
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