Board Member Focus: Jennie Stewart, Celerity Schools Louisiana

Why did you choose to serve on your school’s board?
I was invited to serve on the inaugural board and have been honored to do so. As a product of a public school education (though I’m from IL and not LA), I believe every student has a right to an outstanding education and believe we are are making that happen with Celerity LA. So impactful was my education that I ended up being the first in my family to attend college. Education doesn’t just change the individual, but his/her whole family. We really are transforming lives and communities.

How did you become involved with your school?
My cousin in Georgia is friends with the leader of Celerity and was looking for a broad range of folks in Baton Rouge. My cousin suggested my name and the ask was put to me. My affiliation with LSU, my experience as a public school believer and a first generation college student all make me view the decisions we make through a lens of how are we transforming a culture to help students succeed.

What leadership roles have you had while serving on the board?
As the mother of a 1 year old, serving on the board has been my role.

How can people help your school if they are interested?
People can best help our school by attending the cultural events put on by our students. An enthusiastic audience makes all the difference to our students.