Executive of the Year

When I learned I was nominated for DivInc Champions of Change Executive of the Year award, I sat with the reality that I was known for my leadership style. That my peers recognized the value in servant leadership, putting people and community first, all while making an impact. It felt good.

When I learned I WON — when I heard my name called, I wanted to stay sitting in the reality, but now it was time for me to make a speech. You know, the one you are supposed to prepare for, but you don’t, because surely you won’t win. But, I did. And THAT felt really good.

My teammates at Thinkery response when they heard my name

When I looked out into the crowd and I saw my Thinkery team on their feet, screaming wildly, filming my speech, and exuding pride, that felt like the true gift. My friends, colleagues, and loving partner, Reid, witnessing a success that they were very much a part of making happen.

Some words I shared from the night:

"A Champion of Change is a leader driven by conviction, unapologetic about their calling to disrupt systems that create barriers to access and never stops lifting as they climb." - Shaleiah