2016 NAIS People of Color Conference-Dr. Sandra Chapman

Welcome / Bienvenidos to the 29th NAIS People of Color Conference!!

I am honored to return as a guest blogger for PoCC. This year marks my 15th conference, my first was Philadelphia in 1995. I learned about PoCC from my dear friend and colleague, Monique Marshall, who had attended the year before in Albuquerque, 1994. Monique showed me how to navigate the conference since there was so much to experience. I was beside myself with joy, yet wondered why I was REALLY there. 

This September I started my 27th year in independent schools and my purpose for attending PoCC changes like the notches on my children's growth chart hanging on their bedroom door. Some years I barely move up a notch while other years I have a growth spurt even I can't explain. How I enter the PoCC space is often connected to choices I have made or experiences I have had prior to PoCC/SDLC Opening Ceremonies. For example, was I intentional about surrounding myself with people who would nourish my soul, my career path, my life choices, and my self-awareness? Did I neglect or contribute to my regional connections like our People of Color in Independent Schools/New York (POCIS/NY), Sisters of Color in Independent Schools, or Latin@ Educators in New York Independent Schools affinity groups? Have I visited, read, or responded to the NAIS communities to which I belong to learn of new questions I should be asking or new resources available?
 
I could go on. My point is, PoCC is one crucial experience that informs my personal and professional growth. Soak up what you can while you are here.