
It’s so powerful, and necessary, to see your reflection in someone who has accomplished what you have set out to achieve yourself. You think to yourself "if they can do it, surely I can too." Look at what President Barack Obama did for a nation of black children; he gave them hope! Hope that one day, regardless of the obstacles placed before them, they can go on to make their dreams a reality—no matter how big they are, because someone inspired them, went before them and paved the way. He showed them that someone who looked like them can be successful, too. Imagine if our students, beginning at an early age, were surrounded by more leaders and educators they could relate to in that way. Imagine if there were even more leaders and educators pushing them to be the next great scientist, engineer, researcher, educator, writer, president, CEO, and so much more. Not just pushing them to pursue those professions, but showing them how to because they are still in them.
As the student rosters within classrooms around the country continue to diversify, so must the teaching and administrative staff in the institutions that serve them. It is our duty, as shapers of current and future generations, to give them the best opportunity to dream big, and through proper representation and support, help them to believe there’s a place for them in every field they pursue.
