We were lucky to catch up with Darryl Diggs recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Darryl, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only one in the room is a condition that I am very familiar with in my career as an educator, former triathlete, and Edtech cofounder. In each of these spaces I have learned how to “bet on myself”, remain focused on purpose, and make sure my passion shows in everything I do. Whatever success of effectiveness I have accomplished has come by understanding my roots and insatiable want to make my parents, ancestors, family, and children proud.
In addition, I focus on my strengths which helps me remember that everyone has gifts, talents, and opportunities to improve. Although, I may be the “only one” in the room, my intention is to bring my whole self to each conversation and interaction. This mindset helps me push back against nagging imposter syndrome.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Being the “only one” is many spaces, I have found value and the importance in maintaining a level of discernment to drive my decision making/problem-solving. Many times, the “only” will be doubted and questioned for their every move and decision. I once had someone ask me for what I was thinking when I made decisions and then patronized me by asking about how I felt. Through these moments, I further realized that I need to accept that I will be doubted and make sure I remind myself that pride myself on my communication ability and strength as a relationship builder.
I am a Director of Equity for my school district and the majority of my work is to help schools and school district with professional development involving diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. Sometimes to do this work, you will be the only person of color guiding others in their personal development. This position and role aligns with my life because there were many instances growing up that my diverse settings formed the bases of my personality. Through elementary school, my family lived overseas, in middle school I learned how to tap dance and play the saxophone. In high school, I started a hip hop dance group and into adulthood, I ventured into triathlon, education, and became an author.
Currently, I experience the world through the eyes of an inquisitive social introvert!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that were most impactful for my journey and story were these three:
1. Be able to create and sustain a clear and yet, attainable vision for myself and the impact I can have in an over saturated environment.
2. Place an elevated level of importance in decision making and facilitate problems as they arise.
3. Utilize data to inform current processes, future needs, and always plan for the “next thing.”
Pro Tip: The world is ever evolving and having a firm understanding of where your organization is at any given time in important and create a vehicle to remain connected to your stakeholders.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
The number one challenge I am facing and the education system is experiencing is having to pivot away from dated and traditional staffing models and shift our mindset for hiring and recruitment. My cofounder and I developed a platform for educators and those who service the field of education to post jobs, staff their buildings, and showcase candidate talent. The platform is called EduOpenings. We aim to improve staff diversity by showcasing candidates from all backgrounds. Rethinking recruitment and staffing models is difficult but necessary work. By leveraging technology, we hope to open new doors for candidates and schools alike.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://audacityofequity.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/notifications/?filter=all
- Twitter: @Achievement4ALL
