Learning to Listen

To think big, six Brooks students took a big trip — to the nation’s capital for a conference focused on developing leadership.

The group, all in the class of 2027, jetted down to Washington, D.C., on January 27 for four days to participate in the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Student Civic Leadership Summit.

“This conference helped me to build on my discussion skills and ability to understand others’ viewpoints,” said Kevin Kahu ’27 (on right).

The opportunity, in partnership with Close Up Foundation, brought high school students from across the country together in workshops that “focused on tackling issues in modern education,” said Kevin Kahu ’27, upon his return to campus.

“It allowed us the chance to dig deeper into meaningful issues that we may not normally get the chance to talk about,” he said. “I personally enjoyed getting the chance to listen to people from all over demonstrate their opinions and passions while also getting the chance to vocalize my own.”

Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Terri Ofori led the trip for exactly that reason — and more. The conference “offered Brooks students a powerful opportunity to engage deeply with questions of democracy, equity and civic responsibility,” she said.

Brooks sent students to the conference last year, too.

Students’ conversations with fellow participants, policy simulations and collaborative, problem-solving exercises gave the Brooksians new insight and skills. “It strengthened their ability to listen across differences, think critically about systemic challenges and imagine their role as ethical leaders in their communities,” Ofori added.

The faculty chaperones had a chance for career development, too. Ofori (right), Self in Community (SIC)/Science Teacher Shami Bery (left) and Davis Fellow/SIC Teacher Marley Berano (second from left) participated in a concurrent National Network of Schools in Partnership annual conference on community and civic engagement.

“It fostered rich exchanges about how schools can integrate civic engagement, social impact and reflective practice into academic life in ways that support purpose-driven learning,” said Ofori. “I loved collaborating with educators from across the country.”

On the way home, the group got a surprise bonus moment: crossing paths with Massachusetts' U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren at the airport!

“She invited Brooks students into conversation and shared insights from Capitol Hill, including reflections on the immigration legislation she has been working on and the importance of compromise in governance,” said Ofori. “It was a profound honor for our students to witness civic leadership in action and to gain a deeper appreciation for the work that takes place in Congress.”