
We’re excited to be celebrating the legacy and achievements of Black history this February!
Practicing what we preach
IEL President Eddie Koen leads the organization as our first Black President. We’re proud to have a staff and board who bring experiences and expertise from all walks of life and backgrounds – leaders dedicated to developing and connecting adults and youth leaders who strengthen communities and education systems in pursuit of greater opportunity for all.

The Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program

The Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) is a high-tech, career-focused mentoring program for youth involved with or at risk of becoming involved with the juvenile justice system, geared toward youth with disabilities.
Leaders of Tomorrow
Leaders of Tomorrow (LoT) is a leadership program created by IEL with a curriculum co-designed by immigrant and refugee youth. The LoT program is designed to help immigrant and refugee youth develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to participate in decision-making processes and structures to improve their own lives, as well as the lives of others in their communities. Through the program, youth are equipped to become leaders and agents of change, while also promoting equity and social justice for all children, youth, adults, and families.

Network Co-Chairs
IEL’s Coalition for Community Schools and Family & Community Engagement Network have several learning networks that help Community School leaders, Coordinators, and stakeholders connect, deepen their knowledge and skills, and advocate for excellent and sustainable Community Schools. Each network is led by elected co-chairs. We’re lifting up the leadership of some of these dedicated professionals this Black History Month!
IEL Board Chair Stacy Holland

Inspired by her former students and relentlessly optimistic about the future of education, Dr. Stacy E. Holland, Ed.D., has nearly 30 years of experience developing and implementing educational solutions for children.
As Executive Director of Elevate 215, Stacy is fostering a positive approach to aligning the education community of Philadelphia on a common vision and working to ensure every student has the modern learning experience that builds the skills needed to thrive and reach long-term economic security.
More ways to support Black Leaders and Communities
IEL Services
Leadership plays a vital role in uniting the varied knowledge, skills, and talents within local communities to promote opportunity for all. We work hand in hand with communities, teaming up with local organizations to bolster local leadership at all levels, driving positive change through education and interconnected systems. To do this, we build innovative programming, experiences, and services to help leaders change education systems.

the Washington Policy SeminarTM
The 61st Washington Policy SeminarTM (WPS) is taking place March 17 to 19, 2025 at DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC – Crystal City. Started in 1964 by IEL, WPS is your front-row seat to inside-the-beltway federal policy and national trends. Network, learn, and take action over a 3-day conference filled with skill-building sessions!

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The National Community Schools & Family Engagement Conference
The Institute for Educational Leadership is proud to host the 2025 National Community Schools and Family Engagement Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota! This national conference brings together people from across the country who believe all children deserve a safe place to live and opportunities to learn and thrive. Inspired by our theme, Rising Together: Powering the Movement, the conference catalyzes collaboration, action, and a renewed commitment to transforming our practices, partnerships, and systems.
