ICGS in Action: Reflections on Connection, Collaboration, and Commitment

November 19, 2024

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by Danielle Heard, President of the ICGS Governing Board of Directors and Head of Nashoba Brooks School

There simply is no comparison to ICGS.
-Symposium Attendee

It was an honor and a privilege to connect with ICGS members in London. Following inspiring visits to the City of London School for Girls and South Hampstead High School, GDST, and an exceptional Educating Girls Symposium at Wimbledon High School, GDST, the ICGS Board of Directors gathered for a full day of meetings to explore issues of regional significance, global relevance, and strategic importance as we build on outstanding momentum and plan for a very bright future for ICGS and girls’ schools.

With a robust agenda, we completed a “pentathlon” of fiduciary, strategic, and generative work with focus on deepening cultural competency, exploring issues of significance to member schools, and discussing highest priorities for advocacy, membership, and strategic partnerships. In doing this work, I was struck repeatedly by the strength of Megan Murphy’s leadership, the talent and dedication of the ICGS team, and the wisdom and commitment of the ICGS Board. I allowed myself a few minutes on the plane ride home to ponder what it is about ICGS gatherings that catalyzes new ideas, renewed energy, and meaningful action. The list is long, but a few highlights shine through:

  • Clarity – ICGS is both a member- and cause-based organization, committed to a common charge of educating and empowering girls to become the ethical and bold changemakers our world needs.
  • Connection – ICGS functions as a true coalition, engaging educators from around the world in impactful work with a shared purpose.
  • Curation – The exceptional team at ICGS designs professional development and networking experiences through the ICGS Symposiums and Conferences that are unmatched in quality, consistency, and relevance — every interaction is guaranteed to spark new ideas, new connections, and new opportunities for growth.
  • Curiosity – Members of ICGS bring genuine spirit of inquiry and generosity to our shared work — all in, no ego.
  • Commitment – Whether welcoming visitors to school campuses, sharing research, developing curriculum, or advancing best practice, ICGS members show up, stand up, step up, and speak up in support of girls’ and girls’ schools.

I am grateful for our time together and look forward to seeing you at the ICGS Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on June 24-26, 2025.