In 2017, when I joined LEANLAB Education, I was so excited about the idea that I could be part of a team creating a more equitable landscape for all students. We are always committed to our 3 core values: boldness, equity, and human-centered design. We are bold because we are unafraid to look outside the box to create change. We create equity, both internally and externally, by continuing to be culturally responsive in all aspects of our work as a thought leader in education and innovation. We demonstrate human-centered design thinking as my team continues to develop programming that will elevate the voice of our community through our work with entrepreneurs. 

Since I began this journey, I have always talked about how human-centered design was the core value that I related to the most because of how easily I am able to connect with others to create the "magic" in the work. I realize now that I also connect with equity. For me, equity involves ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to be connected to their culture and be able to share situations that impact them, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, gender, or disability. Throughout my career, I have been able to lend a voice to many issues that impact students with disabilities and people of all ages to ensure that everyone has a voice in all of the programming we provide.

I grew up struggling to find my voice, in part because I was extremely shy and also because of my disability, cerebral palsy–a neurological condition–impacted my motor functions. By the time I was 9 yrs old, I could finally speak full sentences. At the time, my class was the first in the district (Hickman Mills) to allow children with disabilities to attend school in typical classrooms with other students. It was quite an adjustment for my peers and for myself, trying to understand the different attitudes. My teachers tried to help by having discussions regarding diversity in the classroom. This had a more positive impact on everyone as students felt they had the opportunity to share and take ownership of their actions, thus creating open dialogue and fostering respect.

School continued to present its challenges, but many supportive educators helped me along the way; I was able to successfully finish high school and was accepted to the University of Missouri-Kansas City College of Arts and Sciences. My college helped me find assistive technology to support my goals and the school hired someone to act as my scribe. This allowed me to verbally write my papers while they typed. I completed two bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology. I completed graduate school with a Master’s degree in social work with honors. Armed with my degrees, I aspired to be a leader in the disability community, advocating for the next generation of youth.

It has been three years since I joined this team of passionate people who share my commitment to educational equity. In that time, I have had an opportunity to learn from each of them. Each has allowed me to grow personally and professionally. My leadership skills really developed when I took over as the Operations Coordinator, VISTA. In this role, I have been able to excel and maintain a strong relationship with vendors, the community, and our entrepreneurs. I was even coined the “Concierge on Wheels’’ by one of our entrepreneurs due to my consistent ability to anticipate needs and handle any issues that arose during the fellowship. 

In response to COVID-19, we have worked diligently to ensure that our school partners have the tools that they need to help students continue learning in a remote environment. During this time, I took the lead in creating systems to promote a positive team culture through icebreakers, games, and social check-ins weekly with each team member. These opportunities to connect have positively informed our work and elevated our team culture. I have really enjoyed every moment spent providing all the behind the scenes administrative work going into making all LEANLAB events and activities successful. None of which I would have been able to do without the support of my team.

It is with a humble heart that I announce June 3rd is my last day with LEANLAB Education. I will be taking on a new leadership role with the Kansas City Public Library through the Americorps VISTA program.  I am so gratified by the lessons this role has taught me. Most of all, I have learned to trust my instincts and believe in my capabilities. I especially appreciate Katie’s Leadership. She has shown me how to take charge of situations without fear, and with compassion. From Stephanie, I have learned patience and tolerance of my own abilities, as I tend to get frustrated by how long it takes me to complete tasks. Alexander has taught me not to take myself so seriously. I can be passionate about our work without losing the joy. Jorge has given me the world (literally) through virtual tours from around the world. Erin has allowed me to share my feedback during team meetings through my social worker lens. Finally, Rohan shares my enthusiasm toward ensuring that all aspects of programming go smoothly with a commitment toward excellence.

I sincerely want to thank the community, school partners, vendors, AmeriCorps VISTA, and especially my team for the opportunity to excel in this position. Thank you for your partnership, dedication, and friendship. This is just the beginning.

All My Best,
Mary Carter