The Mentor Who Saw the Whole Person

When I applied to AASA's Urban Superintendents Academy with Howard University, I was hoping to connect my professional experiences into a clearer vision of the superintendent's role. Throughout my career in education — in human resources, leadership development and school support — I'd developed a strong foundation in serving students, supporting educators and improving organizational culture. But I wanted the Academy to help me see how all of it fit together, and to continue preparing myself to serve as a transformational superintendent in the future.

I also wanted to move beyond simply observing district leadership and develop a real understanding of how superintendents balance academics, operations, human resources, finance, politics and community relations while keeping students at the center of every decision.

It helped me move beyond viewing challenges at the surface level and instead examine how policies, practices and leadership decisions influence the experiences of students, families and staff every day. 

I found that. And I found something more.

The experience challenged me to show up as a more reflective, collaborative and equity-focused leader. It helped me move beyond viewing challenges at the surface level and instead examine how policies, practices and leadership decisions influence the experiences of students, families and staff every day. I became more intentional about considering issues such as equity, access, staffing, school culture, student support systems and community engagement when making decisions or supporting schools.

Most importantly, it reinforced that leadership is not just about managing schools or departments, but about creating conditions where students, staff and communities can thrive together.

More than a Mentor: The Gift of Being Recognized

That understanding deepened through every session, every conversation — and no conversation shaped it more than the ones I had with my mentor, Dr. Gregory Hutchings Jr.

What made my relationship with Dr. Gregory Hutchings Jr. different from any professional mentorship I'd had before was that our connection extended far beyond professional leadership conversations. Early on, I realized this mentorship was unique because there was a genuine investment in each other as people, not just as professionals.

What stood out most was how naturally our conversations balanced leadership and humanity. He modeled that effective leadership is not only about strategy and decision-making, but also about relationships, vulnerability and caring for people.

Dr. Hutchings took the time to truly know me beyond my résumé and career aspirations. He met my wife and son, which demonstrated that he valued the people and relationships that are most important in my life. Those moments created a sense of authenticity and trust that strengthened our connection.

Our conversations were not limited to work or leadership development. We openly discussed personal experiences, life challenges and family matters. What stood out most was how naturally our conversations balanced leadership and humanity. He modeled that effective leadership is not only about strategy and decision-making, but also about relationships, vulnerability and caring for people.

His encouragement created a stronger sense of efficacy in me because he helped me realize that I already possess many of the attributes of an effective leader: the ability to build relationships, support others, communicate a vision, navigate challenges and remain student-centered in decision-making.

Because of his mentorship, I now approach leadership with greater confidence, clarity and belief in my capacity to make a meaningful impact on students, schools and communities.

Paying It Forward

One of the greatest lessons I've taken from this experience is the importance of paying it forward: supporting, encouraging and mentoring future leaders the same way Dr. Hutchings has done for me. His willingness to pour into others with sincerity and purpose has shown me the kind of leader and mentor I aspire to be.

What began as a mentor/mentee relationship has evolved into a genuine friendship built on trust, respect and shared values. I truly consider us lifelong friends, and I'm grateful for the lasting impact he has had on my journey, professionally and personally.