![]() During my first year at RCDS, something powerful happened that was a turning point in what my work would look like at the School. Students took over my office! They loved the newly renovated space for sure, but this had to do with something much deeper. Many students realized they needed the space. And, I realized I needed to be in as many spaces as I could.
"Mr. Morgan's Office," as it is affectionately known among students, has become much more than an office. It doubles as a safe space and a place where kids can feel comfortable as they navigate the everyday joys and challenges of attending an independent school. Although the office is open to all students, "regulars" include those who don't always feel comfortable because of an aspect of their identity. In that room, students from all backgrounds come together and build networks and support systems that engender a sense of belonging and awareness that in turn strengthens our larger school community.
The office's role as an agent of community and inclusion has continued to evolve through the years, and so has mine. If you stop by now, you are much more likely to find students than you are me. I have taken the show on the road, if you will. Essentially, I have become the Community Guy. At any given moment, you might find me co-teaching a Library lesson in the Lower School, coaching Middle School tennis, teaching in the Drama and Dance Department, advising students, facilitating a workshop on microaggressions, coordinating many of our student-led Mentoring Programs, co-teaching Shakespeare in an English class, and, of course, attending quite a few meetings ranging from student and parent support to staff professional development.
I also collaborate with our various initiative leaders. I believe strongly in the intersection between Diversity and Inclusion and Sustainability—our planet is home to wonderfully diverse communities of people, and it is important that all of our voices are a part of the conversation on good earth citizenship. I see Public Purpose work as Diversity and Inclusion in action—through partnership, we create a more inclusive awareness of our local communities and build new networks characterized by mutual understanding and appreciation. Our Global Studies program is also connected to the Diversity and Inclusion program—to see and experience the world is to learn what connects us all.
To best support diversity and inclusion within our community, I consider the School in its entirety—students, faculty, staff, initiatives, spaces, curricula—while also appreciating what makes each division, student, teacher, lesson, or room unique. Some of my favorite moments are when we bring the community together, including the Block Party, Wildcat Weekend, Arts Festival and International Fair, and Earth Day, to name a few. When the RCDS community gathers, it is joyful and powerful. Gathering gives us an opportunity to learn from one another and to share in the mutual admiration that is sure to arise when we connect and expand our awareness of the diverse and inspiring identities, experiences, interests, and achievements that make up the RCDS community.
The work that I do strives for a community where we support and recognize one another, one connection at a time. In order to truly live our mission of being actively committed to diversity, we must in fact be active. If you have ever tried to find me on campus, your experience might rival a Where's Waldo? adventure. Every day at RCDS, there are so many opportunities to participate and be in community. I am there being a part of it all, and I encourage you to join me.
By being engaged and active, you enrich and strengthen our community. By being engaged and active, you remind others that they are not alone, you form new relationships and learn from them, and you lead others to follow your good example. All of this makes us more connected and collaborative. It reminds us that embracing our diversity teaches us to be better citizens who are curious about, respectful of, and appreciative of each other. The Rye Country Day community has so much to offer, and I want to make sure everyone feels welcome and eager to participate.
What we all have in common is our RCDS community. What makes us a community is our quality time together. I look forward to connecting with you soon.
Ali Morgan
Director of Diversity and Inclusion
"The Community Guy"
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During my first year at RCDS, something powerful happened that was a turning point in what my work would look like at the School. Students took over my office! They loved the newly renovated space for sure, but this had to do with something much deeper. Many students realized they needed the space. And, I realized I needed to be in as many spaces as I could.