GCS Leaders Participate in Diversity Leadership Initiative
Greenville County Schools trustee Dr. Crystal Ball O’Connor and Assistant Superintendent for Special Education Traci Hogan join other leaders selected from across the Upstate and surrounding area to participate in the Riley Institute at Furman’s 26th class of Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI).
“Discovering ways in which differences can strengthen our organizations is of utmost importance as we seek to grow and support a thriving economy and rich culture,” said Dr. Donald Gordon, executive director of the Riley Institute.
DLI class members are identified through a rigorous process including nominations from existing Riley Fellows, application, and interview. Individuals are selected to join the class based on their capacity to impact their organizations and communities.
Over the course of five months, Dr. O’Connor and Mrs. Hogan will take part in a highly interactive curriculum consisting of case studies, scenario analyses and other experiential learning tools that maximize interaction and discussion among classmates and facilitate productive relationships. They will also work with other class members in one of five Capstone project groups formed to respond to real issues in the community.
The DLI classes are expertly facilitated by Juan Johnson, an independent consultant and former Coca-Cola vice president. “DLI is unique among South Carolina’s leadership programs. In addition to the opportunity to develop new relationships and take part in positive action in their communities, participants gain deep knowledge of how to effectively manage and lead diverse workers, clients and constituents,” said Johnson.
DLI graduates become Riley Fellows, members of a powerful, cross-sector, statewide leadership network that includes CEOs of corporations, mayors, city and county council members, legislators, school superintendents, pastors and rabbis, non-profit heads, chamber of commerce directors, and community leaders. In addition to the Upstate, DLI classes are selected annually in the Midlands and Lowcountry.
“We now have more than 1900 Riley Fellows statewide. Each new class further extends the reach and impact of leaders willing to work together to make South Carolina a better place to live and work for all its residents,” said Gordon.
Previous participants from the Greenville Board of Trustees include Chuck Saylors, Derek Lewis, Joy Grayson and Lisa Wells. DLI graduates from the District Office include Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster, Assistant Superintendent Brenda Byrd, Executive Director of Academic Innovation and Technology Dr. Charlotte McDavid, Coordinator of Community Collaboration Whitney Hanna and Director of Communications Beth Brotherton. Principals Michael Delaney of Carolina High, Charlie Mayfield of JL Mann High and Josh Patterson of Sterling School also completed the program.
