June 2023

Dear friends,

We love the month of June (our birthday month!) and all the ways it shouts “both/and.” Both/and because June is Gemini season, symbolized by twins given a Gemini’s duality and adaptability. Both/and because the season of summer officially begins, and we embrace longer days and shorter nights. Both/and because of bittersweet transitions as the school year ends and graduations are celebrated. Both/and because of bright sun and soaking rain. Both/and because even after the hardest days, we see fireflies bravely shining their light in the darkness and feel encouraged.

As we begin the summer season, we are excited to celebrate Juneteenth, Pride, and the International Day of Purpose – see resources below. We look forward to diving into new partnerships, continuing our learning, and taking time for restoration and reflection. And we are leaving ourselves open to the sun and the rain, because we need them both to grow. We wish you a summer of growth, rest, and continuing to lean into the both/and.

Join us!

Collective Conversations: Midsummer’s Pause

We’d love to take a Midsummer’s Pause with you! Please join us for our next Collective Conversation on Tuesday, July 18th from 11 AM – 12 PM ET. We’ll be at the halfway point of both the summer season and the calendar year. So we’ll take a collective pause to reflect on where we are and what we’re loving this summer and to set intentions, whether for the rest of the season or the rest of the year.

Please grab a cup of coffee or tea (iced!) and join us for this informal conversation. We hope to see you there.

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Partner Spotlight

Jovian Zayne, International Day of Purpose

We are always inspired by our colleague and friend, Jovian Zayne, founder of the International Day of Purpose, and invite you to join us in celebrating the 2023 International Day of Purpose® on Tuesday, June 20th!

Each year, The International Day of Purpose invites us to reflect on our sense of purpose and how we can be more intentional in how we live. This year’s theme “Gather, OnPurpose!” is a call to meaningfully connect with one another – a way for us to confront the epidemic of loneliness and mental health challenges posed by the pandemic.

Visit dayofpurpose.org to download resources from The OnPurpose Movement to curate your meaningful connections and be sure to share your experience by tagging @dayofpurpose and #dayofpurpose.

For more information reach out to [email protected] or visit dayofpurpose.org.

Client Spotlight

Heights Philadelphia

We had an amazing time partnering with Heights Philadelphia this winter and spring. Heights Philadelphia was created in December from the merger of Steppingstone Scholars and Philadelphia Futures. During this time of significant change, Heights Philadelphia was committed to supporting the growth and development of their leaders.

We designed and facilitated a series of customized trainings for both new and seasoned managers to align on a management purpose and framework and to build skill in foundational management competencies. We loved working side by side with Heights Philadelphia leaders to help develop their new managers into thoughtful, effective people leaders.

“This training series was engaging, informative, and illuminating. I loved the flow and pacing of the conversation as well as the opportunities for real world application.”

Participant in Heights Manager Training

If you’re seeking support to help grow and develop your managers, please reach out to discuss how we can partner with you!

Contact us

June Reading Recommendations

Reflections on Juneteenth & Pride

We’re excited to dive into these books and resources this summer as we navigate transitions and move through change.

Black Emancipation and the Legacy of Juneteenth by Nicole Cardoza

What Juneteenth Means to Me by Natacia Knapper

Pride Without Exception by Kelley Robinson

There’s More to Allyship Than Pride and Rainbows by Emery Vela

Our Summer Reading List

Management in a Changing World by Jakada Imani, Monna Wong, and Bex Ahuja

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

Inciting Joy by Ross Gay

Gratitude

In this season we’re thankful for all of the teachers, administrators, coaches and mentors who encourage, challenge, and inspire students every day. Your work is hugely important and deeply appreciated.

Keep shining,