As an Associate on the Engagement team, Elizabeth’s job is to highlight and support The Fund’s work to improve principal quality by sharing its story – and the stories of Chicago’s school leaders – through traditional and digital media.
Why is The Fund’s mission important?
Based on my experience at the Fund I have seen how principals, or any strong leader in a school, can transform the culture. School leaders can empower students and teachers to make bold decisions and to passionately pursue their education and learning even outside of school. They can create a strong sense of community. I am very proud to support that work.
How have you “redefined leadership” in your own life?
For me it was less about redefining leadership and more about understanding it in the first place. I am a quiet and awkward person. I really like people, but I have never thought of myself as a natural leader. Working at the Fund and working with so many principals across the district, I have learned that leadership can come in all different sizes and shapes, and there is no one right way to lead. You have to figure out what works best for you and especially what works best for the people around you. Often I think about what a principal said to me about “selfless leadership.” You have to try your best to provide what others need to make sure they succeed. I hope that throughout my career and throughout my life, I’m able to consider others’ needs first when helping them make decisions or work through problems.
Was there an educator in your life who inspired you?
My choir teacher in high school was a truly thoughtful and passionate educator who deeply respected his students. He was incredibly creative and made learning fun. He set a high standard, and we all pushed ourselves to reach it. He seemed like a natural educator. I don’t know if that’s true, but he was one of the reasons why I consistently was drawn to education. I saw the power that a good educator can have on shaping students’ lives and building their confidence.
What’s one thing about your role at The Fund that might surprise people?
Even though I handle communications, I hardly ever write the first draft of anything. Usually, I am working with colleagues to revise, clarify and sharpen what they are trying to communicate.