Published on Sep 19, 2024
We would not be able to fulfill our mission without our staff, a group of professionals who intentionally work across difference, are experts in their field, and care deeply about young people and their postsecondary journeys.
Each month, we’ll highlight a member of our team by “passing the mic” to hear directly from them about their work and purpose.This month, we are highlighting one of our Transformation Coaches, LaKisha Pittman.
What do you do at the Network for College Success?
Through my work with adults, I work to improve the school experiences for our Black and Latino male students. Their experiences are key to the outcomes we seek. So formally, my title is Transformation Coach but that role encompasses so much more because the work is not linear or solely intellectual. There is no exact science behind it because we are working to transform practices that have not served students well since its inception. If we are to be successful, we have to tap into people’s humanity in ways that go against the dominant culture.
How do you help high school teams build on the work they’re doing and make improvements?
I seek to understand what schools are working on versus going in with a script. I truly believe in our job-embedded coaching model; I’m not trying to tell you how to do your job, but rather I want to understand your goals and help you achieve them. In that, I’m observing, providing feedback, co-constructing, and providing resources, to name a few. That’s what a true partnership looks like to me.
What about the culture of NCS empowers you to show up the way you do?
I’ve worked in other spaces where I couldn’t be my full self and I found little to no satisfaction in the work that I was doing. I’ve been with NCS since 2011 and from day one, I’ve been able to bring my full self to all aspects of my work. When an organization sees you and allows you to lead in your gifts it translates into your outputs. Anchored in my equity imperative, I have the opportunity to coach boldly and lead professional development as my multidimensional self in ways that other places wouldn’t allow.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Being of service to young people. I started teaching 25 years ago to be in service of young people. While I’ve transitioned in various roles since, my mission remains the same because they are to whom I am ultimately accountable. We reap the benefits of what we pour into our young people and we suffer the consequences when we don’t. I want to reap the benefits which is why I show up the way I do for our youth.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement during your time with NCS?
Just one is hard but when I think of the work we were able to accomplish during the pandemic, I’m proud to say I was not only able to bear witness but be a part of that work. I’m speaking specifically about transitioning a typically 7-day PD (National Freshman Success Institute) to a virtual platform for two years. In the first year, we had over 150+ participants followed by 300+ the next year. In those two years, despite the pandemic, our participating schools saw increases in their Freshman OnTrack rates. That was new ground for us and I had the privilege of leading a dope team in that work.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy pursuing?
I’m pretty chill, relaxing and cooking are my thing. When I’m not doing that, I’m my 15-year-old’s biggest cheerleader in his current endeavor. There is a lot of overlap in my work and personal life; service to others and showing up for young people specifically. Again I think that’s why my work fulfills me, I get to be LaKisha at all times and not have to turn off parts of me.
Want to meet other remarkable staff at NCS? Visit our staff directory page here.
