Dear Higher Achievement Community,
I could not be more excited to serve as the Executive Director of Higher Achievement- DC Metro. I began my Higher Achievement journey 13 years ago as an Achievement Coach at our Ward 7 Achievement Center at Kelly Miller Middle School. At the time, I had just received my Master’s degree in education where my interest in out-of-school time programs was sparked. I knew what a unique opportunity those hours offered young people so when the chance to join the Kelly Miller team presented itself, I had to say yes.
Within the first few hours on the job, I immediately witnessed the power of Higher Achievement. I was inspired by the staff, volunteers, and—most importantly—the scholars. Ms. Martine, the Learning Director at the time, created a positive and supportive environment built on structure, joy, and scholar-centricity. I still remember the energy I felt leaving center after my first day.
Since my time as an Achievement Coach, I have held numerous programmatic roles within the organization, from Learning Coordinator, Learning Director, Director of Program Operations, and most recently the Managing Director of Programs. Regardless of my role, which center I was working at, or the affiliate I was supporting, one thing that has always remained constant is Higher Achievement’s unwavering commitment to ensuring all scholars are seen, supported and cared for.
Prior to joining the Higher Achievement team, I coached lacrosse at Whittier College in Whittier, California. Coaching taught me the importance of preparation and organization, effective communication, how to set people up for success, and the critical importance of leading through empathy and inclusivity. I carry these lessons with me while at Higher Achievement and know that as the Executive Director, these skills will be more important than ever.
The last 13 years working at Higher Achievement have been a privilege and I am beyond humbled to now lead the DC Metro office. Higher Achievement’s commitment to closing the opportunity gap is what first drew me to the organization, and what has kept me here. We know that talent is everywhere but opportunity isn’t, which is why we shower scholars with the opportunities that they deserve, from big experiences like college visits, to ongoing experiences like weekly mentoring sessions. I am a firm believer that every student, regardless of their family’s income or where they live, deserves the opportunity to realize their promise and potential. That’s what Higher Achievement does, and that’s why I’m committed to this work.
With gratitude,
James Morgan