Legacy of Allyship: A Journey from Partnership to Leadership at School Board Partners

Legacy of Allyship: A Journey from Partnership to Leadership at School Board Partners

2 years ago, almost to the day, I sat in a board meeting at School Board Partners where Carrie, with characteristic boldness, put forth a vision that would change the course of my leadership journey. In a room filled with our board members, she confidently announced that I should be named the sole CEO of our organization. Her vision was not just a passing thought—it was a declaration steeped in allyship, purpose, and an unwavering belief in my ability to lead us into the future.

Carrie saw me and the fullness of my leadership. She believed in my capacity to grow, to lead, and to expand the impact of our organization. Over the past 24 months, she didn’t just advocate for me; she empowered me. She pushed me forward, centered my leadership, and supported me as I became the face of School Board Partners. Together, we have expanded our programs, enriched our offerings, and laid the groundwork for sustainability and scale.

For those who may be surprised by the news of Carrie stepping aside, let me assure you—this moment has been years in the making. Carrie’s belief in my leadership wasn’t a fleeting idea; it was a commitment she made and has championed tirelessly. This year, she went to the board and asked them to make it official. And now, as I prepare to take on the role of sole CEO, I do so with a mix of emotions—honor, excitement, and a touch of sadness at the thought of losing my co-leader.

Carrie is more than a colleague; she is a friend who means the world to me. Co-leading with her has been an extraordinary experience. It’s not lost on either of us how unusual—and perhaps even uncomfortable—it might be for some to see a Black man and a white woman with blonde hair and blue eyes, not just working together, but laughing together, leading together, and loving on others together. What might appear powerful and symbolic to the outside world has always been, for us, a genuine partnership rooted in deep respect and admiration.

Our relationship was never performative. Carrie used her privilege not as a shield for herself, but as a force to uplift me, to break down barriers, and to show that a Black man and a white woman can unite to fight for anti-racism in governance on behalf of students. Our partnership has been a case study in what happens when leaders from different backgrounds—different races, faiths, and regions—come together with a shared belief in justice and equity. We have shown that it’s possible to not just coexist but to thrive in our differences and, in doing so, improve the world around us.

As Carrie transitions out of School Board Partners, she is stepping into an exciting new role in philanthropy. Carrie will be supporting Allan Golston to lead US Programs for the Gates Foundation, as the Chief of Staff to the President and Director of Strategy, Planning and Management for US Programs. In partnership with Allan and the US Directors, Carrie will work to ensure that people navigating education systems and job markets can develop the knowledge, skills, and agency needed to thrive in their communities such that race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status are no longer predictors of educational attainment and economic mobility and security.

As she steps into this next chapter, I am inspired to think about Carrie bringing her critical equity lens, fierce commitment to allyship, and practitioner's experience to shape the future of philanthropy in the United States. While I will miss our day-to-day partnership, I know that Carrie’s imprint will forever be part of SBP’s DNA and I am incredibly proud of her and excited to see the profound impact she will have in her new role.

And, as I step into my new chapter, I carry with me the lessons, the memories, and the profound impact of these past six years. I am ready for the challenge ahead, but I am also deeply grateful for the journey that brought me here—a journey made possible by the courage, support, and vision of my friend and co-leader, Carrie.

As I embark on this journey as the sole leader of School Board Partners, there is one thing I ask of our community. In honor of Carrie's legacy, her commitment to allyship, and the incredible partnership we have shared, I am asking that we establish an Allyship Fund in Governance at School Board Partners. I am excited to announce that Carrie has committed the first $10,000 and will be working to fundraise more. This fund will be a testament to the values Carrie has championed—leaders supporting leaders from diverse backgrounds, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that the fight for equity and anti-racism in governance continues. It will be a lasting tribute to the powerful impact Carrie has had on our organization and a way to ensure that her spirit of allyship lives on in the work we do every day. To donate, please visit this link here.