Malik: My Experience at Leadership Town Hall 2024

As a proud alumnus of Communities In Schools^® (CIS^®) and now a board member at the local level, attending the Leadership Town Hall in Dallas, Texas, was an experience that filled me with immense pride and inspiration. It wasn’t just about being part of an event but about reconnecting with the very mission that shaped so much of who I am today. Walking into the Town Hall, the energy was palpable. The room buzzed with a shared commitment to student success, and I immediately felt at home among the many CIS affiliates from across the country. As a former CIS student, I knew firsthand the impact of this organization, but now, being on the other side as a board member, I see the broader picture—the collective strength and dedication that makes CIS a national powerhouse for change.

One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to network with CIS affiliates from various states. Each conversation was a reminder of how unique, yet connected, our efforts are. We discussed strategies for overcoming challenges—from funding to volunteer recruitment—but what stood out most was the shared belief in the power of relationships to change students’ lives. It was especially inspiring to hear stories from other alums who are now giving back to their communities in different ways. There was a sense of unity among us, knowing that we’ve all been impacted by CIS and are now part of the solution, shaping a brighter future for the next generation of students.

My experience at Leadership Town Hall 2024 was transformative. It solidified my belief in the CIS mission and deepened my commitment to this work. Attending was not only a milestone in my professional journey but a deeply personal experience. The opportunity to collaborate with CIS leaders and alums from across the country left me both inspired and determined to continue advocating for students through CIS. The connections I made and the stories shared reaffirmed that, together, we are creating a powerful network of support for the future. I’m excited to see how we can collectively drive change, one student at a time.