2. Roel Vivit - Leader at Steans Family Foundation - Leading with by Becoming of Artwork

Exceptionally Good: Leaders for a Better World

We bring you in-depth interviews with exceptional leaders who drive toward a different bottom line — leaders from health care, philanthropy, non-profits, education and rescue services who are doing exceptional work for the good of the world. Exploring their origin stories, their leadership journey and the lessons they learned on their path -- sometimes the hard way -- we bring you close to understand how exceptional leaders tick.

On Instagram and Threads
@e.g.exceptionallygood.org

All Episodes

Exceptionally Good: Leaders for a Better World

2. Roel Vivit - Leader at Steans Family Foundation - Leading with by Becoming of

December 09, 2024 • Ryan Maxwell • Season 1

How do you get into that hard conversation by reframing it on what matters most?

What happens when you are invited to an opportunity and you just can’t turn it down?

How do you lead with a community by becoming of the community?

In this episode, Ryan speaks with Roel Vivit, a seasoned educational leader with over two decades of experience in Chicago. Roel shares his inspiring career journey from classroom teacher to founding member of the Polaris Charter Academy and his current role as Director of Education at the Steans Family Foundation. The conversation delves into Roel's unique leadership philosophy, his focus on creating opportunities for student development, and his commitment to addressing racial and economic injustices. How do you reframe hard conversations through authentic relationships for good? This episode is filled with valuable insights and practical wisdom for leaders aiming to make a social impact. Join us to learn about the importance of community, integrity, and continuous growth in effective leadership.

"I’m always pushing myself on taking the risk. I can be someone who can be risk averse and so when I’m saying, 'don't want to risk that,' pushing myself to say, 'what is it?' I feel like I always have to keep telling myself every day. 'What is one thing I'm going to risk today? And when did I have an opportunity to do that?' to just get into the habit and get myself and also tell my body, 'hey, this risk is okay to be able to take.' And it's actually something that's going to get you or get the organization or your team members to where they need to go."

Links:

Polaris Charter Academy

https://www.pcachicago.org/

Chicago Writing Area Project

https://cawpchicago.org/

Steans Family Foundation

https://steansfamilyfoundation.org/

Roel in the Chicago Tribune - 2005

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2005/03/11/teachers-point-words-are-power/

Follow us:

@e.g.exceptionallygood

https://www.instagram.com/p/DCk8pcourAOm81qleR5vtwQRvSY7emrC0ZARNY0/?igsh=MW0wOWZkNHM3M2Rldg==