Six RCDS Upper School student leaders participated in the 26th Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), which was held virtually this year. Trained adult and peer facilitators led this multiracial, multicultural gathering of upper school student leaders, which this year was focused on self-reflecting, forming allies, and building community. The four-day conference helped 2,086 participating student delegates from across the U.S. and abroad build new, diverse networks as they developed cross-cultural communication skills, designed effective strategies for social justice, and learned the foundations of allyship.

Concurrently, 11 RCDS faculty and staff delegates attended the NAIS People of Color Conference (PoCC), “New Decade, New Destinies: Challenging Self, Changing Systems, and Choosing Justice.” PoCC supports educators at all levels in becoming active leaders in improving the interracial, interethnic, and intercultural climate in their school communities.

As the School moves ahead in the implementation of its comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan, student and employee participation in these flagship conferences will provide important insights and guidance. Both conferences fostered meaningful connections and productive dialogue, and RCDS participants will contribute their insights from the experience to the School community.

“Between all of the inspiring speakers and workshops, what stands out most is the affinity groups and opportunities to connect. Affinity spaces are an important part of our DEI plan, specifically RAMP (Alumni Support and Engagement), Saturday Summit on Social Justice, Civil Discourse and Brave Spaces, and of course signature programs like SOC, UPLIFT, Girls and Boys Mentoring. I look forward to our annual tradition of our SDLC sharing activities with the community soon.” -- Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Ali Morgan

"SDLC is a strong community that has taught me the importance of having a family and space where we understand one another and dive deeply into conversations. The energy was immaculate, uplifting, and powerful, making me feel that change is coming and that we are going to be that needed change."     -- Arly Rodriguez ’21

​​“What an incredible honor and gift it is to be able to participate in a program with so many talented, passionate, and inspiring people! We all must be continually invested in changing the very fabric of the schools we love. I return to my role at school with a renewed sense of urgency for the work that must happen on a daily basis.” -- Jaclyn Butera, Dean of Student Life, Upper School Counselor, and Upper School Advisor Program Coordinator

It was important for me to hear other individuals’  struggles and triumphs and to realize that I am not alone. The affinity groups were a breath of fresh air and gave me the ability to "let my hair down." -- Charles Ogbonna, Coach