My name is Sandra K. Chapman, but many of you know me, or will come to know me, as Chap. I am the Director of Diversity and Community at LREI, a 14 year institution located in the heart of Greenwich Village in New York City. I have worked in three different Independent Schools in NYC over the past 19 years, but have found my new home here at LREI, where I have been for 6 years.

I am very excited, and honored, to present the 2008 People of Color Conference through my personal lense. My main goals are to capture the beauty and essence of the conference while also sharing the colorful aspects of the Crescent City of NOLA! Our theme for the conference: Music for Life, Food for Thought, and Friendships that Sustain: Rebuilding and Preserving the Essence of People of Color in Independent Schools comes at a time in my life when I am in search of good music, good food, and good people. My search began this summer when I traveled to NOLA in July as part of Call-to-Action. I met the most heart felt and dedicated team of educators who lifted my spirits every time I walked into the meeting room. I ate foods I have never tasted, like gumbo (and I do not like okra), rabbit (and I only eat chicken and turkey), and beignet (though I was trying to watch my figure – HA). I walked around the French Market and up and down Bourbon Street – pulled in every direction by the sounds of lively music, soulful rhythms, and dancing feet – usually my own!

I have no doubt that the 2008 PoCC will rock your world, ignite your spirit, and move you to rebuild and preserve. I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences and perspective with you.