Christie Finley

Megan: So, I am so thrilled about today’s interview. Not only because it’s going to be the best interview ever, but because, and those who know, know, uh, but because I have an opportunity to chat with Christy Finley, who I have admired for so long. Um, you have. such an amazing role and impact that you’ve made in our community, not only through, um, childhood education, but now adult education in a little bit of a capacity, um, not to diminish the importance of what that means and the impact, because we’ll dive into that.

Megan: But Christy Finley is currently the CEO and president of Leadership Greater Huntsville here, um, which so many people in North Alabama have. been honored to take a part of one of their programs. Um, but prior to that was an educator for 31 years. So, like kudos to you. I mean, it’s just, yeah. So, so happy that you were able to carve out some time.

Christie: Thank you for having me, Megan. I’m so excited to be here, to see you, and to talk about L35 a little bit. It’s the best class ever.

Megan: Fun fact, we were in flagship together through leadership, which was fantastic. And I felt like a kid at the candy shop because I had front row seats. to um, both you and Dr. Nichols in, in our L35 group.

Megan: Never a dull moment with us. Never a dull moment, um, having two out of the three superintendents in our area in one leadership group, which was amazing and truly, I’ll speak on behalf of our group on this one and we’ll get there. I think truly was the reasoning behind why we did our small group project the way that we did.

Megan: I mean, you guys were such an inspiration and all that, which we’ll talk about in a little bit. But, um, before we kind of get in there, let’s just talk about you and a little bit about your background. And I know that you’ve been in education for so long and come from a family of educators. Right. So, let’s kind of just start a little bit from the beginning.

Megan: And I know you’re a Huntsville native. Yeah, let’s just start there and we’ll sound good. And first

Christie: again, thank you. I’m so excited about that. Get to reconnect with you and, and so glad to be here at flourish. Beautiful space that you have and great job that you’ve done. Um, but yeah, I’m, I always say I’m a native slash unicorn. Um, grew up here, uh, in the Madison County area, grew up in Madison, Alabama, um, when it was very small and people would say, oh my gosh, we have to drive all the way out to Madison. And I’m like, it’s kind of metro, right? Um, but, uh, I am a third-generation educator. My grandfather was a principal in Madison County at Owens Crossroads and later retired and was on the Madison County Board of Education.

Christie: Um, both my parents were educators, um, my mother, in, in Madison, Alabama. Um, my mom, uh, was a second-grade teacher at West Madison, then Madison Elementary School. And my dad, um, was actually the first basketball coach at Bob Jones High School when they opened. And that’s how we came to Madison, I know, right?

Christie: So, uh, back in the 1900s, I’d say, dating myself, um, but yeah, I would say that, um, as a result of having that exposure early on with my, my grandfather, my parents, but also just quality teachers, excuse me, that I had along the way. that really were what I consider change makers in my life and many others, um, really kind of inspired me to, to be a teacher.

Christie: I didn’t go into, um, college with that in mind. I actually started off in engineering. Really? I did. Wow. I went to one, and this is embarrassing, but I always tell the story and, you know, one thing about me, I’m transparent probably to a fault, but, um, Sat in my first, one of the first engineering classes and our, you know, professor gave our assignment and it was all independent and I’m sitting there and no one’s talking to one another and I like to talk which you’ll probably, you know that already.

Christie: And I was like, yeah, this, this is not for me. Of course, that field has evolved and it’s obviously more collaborative and things like that. But, um, My love was just, I just didn’t feel that immediate connection and, um, I think one thing that sparked my interest in going into education actually was, um, my macroeconomics class and my comparative politics class at Auburn University and that’s where I really, my whole trajectory changed based on those two courses and then it went into more of the social sciences, um, Um, with kind of a love for politics, thought I’d go that route, um, but I got an opportunity to go back and teach at Bob Jones, teaching, um, ironically, macroeconomics and advanced placement comparative, uh, politics.

Christie: Oh, wow. I know. So those are the That’s interesting. I know. Kind of full circle. Yeah. Um, and yeah, that, you know, the funny thing is I was 21 when I started teaching and I taught 12th graders, and they were 18. I’m like, oh my, but, uh, I know I look back. I was, um, and, uh, I loved that. Some of the students has to keep, keep, keep in contact with them.

Christie: They’re only three years younger than me. Yeah, but, um, yeah, so that’s really what started that whole path was just a couple of classes and obviously really the people who, um, Changemakers in my life early on.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: So

Megan: can I ask, was there something specific that sort of that you remember about those particular courses that really sort of was your, you know, eureka moment kind of to kind of say, this is what I want to do?

Megan: Or was it just sort of a combination of that experience that sort of led you there?

Christie: Of course, I love the content. But really, I think it was the professors because it was collaborative and we were engaged and we were like, you know, we’re working really encouraged to talk and, and it was small, and it was group projects and things like that.

Christie: I’m like, this is what I want to do. I don’t know what that’s going to look like. And then it just, that gravitational shift back toward teaching and maybe really paying it forward as those professors did and much like I mentioned. with the teachers I had growing up. Yeah,

Megan: I love that. So, so flash forward, you kind of end up in a teaching position and you’ve held like every major position seems like within or a lot of positions within the school system.

Megan: So, kind of talk a little bit about your journey there.

Christie: Yeah. Um, so a top 12th grade, as I mentioned, um, and then You know, I had some students, and I really think there are things that happen in our lives that sometimes make you pivot, right? Is this what I’m supposed to be doing? To constant, have that constant reflection, I think it’s important, of where your next step is, or your journey is.

Christie: And I had a student that, um, uh, you know, I thought, oh gosh, it’s so important. Everybody needs to understand, you know, the importance of, of our history of our country and things like that. But I had a student that came in and would come in. First period I had the student and was hoodie over his head sleeping.

Christie: And I was like, why isn’t he engaged? Why, you know, what, what do I need to do differently? Well, what I learned when I learned his story was that he was homeless and he was coming to school, having had, having had anything to eat after he left from lunch. So, like in those days we didn’t provide what we call supper.

Christie: Yeah. Um, and probably didn’t have breakfast. Um. So, his only meal was what he got at school. Right. Which was at lunch. Yeah. Right. So, you learn stories, and this was a 12th grader, and I started thinking, I was like, so we have a 17 year old sitting here who’s going through that. There are probably other students.

Christie: You know, this was back when school counseling wasn’t, you didn’t hear much about it. Yeah. Um, a lot of students didn’t have access to school counselors, um, and there really was kind of limited number of counseling. Um, or counselors in schools back in the, you know, again, back in 1992, 93. Um, and it was at that point I thought, gosh, there’s more students who need someone to talk to.

Christie: Um, and teachers, as we know, wear many, many hats, right? Not just teaching the content, not just engaging students, recognizing if there’s issues with their learning or, um. You become the nurse, you become that person that they can trust. It needs to be a place of safety, and our teachers do an outstanding job of that.

Christie: But it was at that point in my life where I pivoted and decided to get back and get a Masters in School Counseling. And after doing that I was school counselor at, um, at Bob Jones. And then, um, I moved to an elementary school actually, uh, out where we live in the Hampton Cove area. So, I moved from Madison District to Huntsville City Schools.

Christie: And, um, again, enjoyed that because I went from 12th graders and working with high school students to now elementary school aged, aged children. So their problems obviously are different, but at the end of the day, it’s knowing students stories and, and how you can make an impact, especially, you know, early intervention, um, so that we can find out what’s going on with kids and help them early on and hopefully any kind of, um, you know, trauma that they’ve experienced that we can support that.

Christie: And that was again, early 2000s. Yeah. Yeah. Um, yeah. And then I had another pivot moment, um, at Hampton Cove Elementary we had a principal, her name is Del Kirch, again one of those change makers I think that, that God has placed in my life, fortunately, and um, I was able just kind of to shadow her and see that she, she used her counseling skills, she used her teaching skills, um, and just that.

Christie: Personal, um, ability to establish rapport with the parents. And so, I went back and, um, I got a, uh, degree in educational leadership. Became an assistant principal, um, and then became a principal. Um, served at, uh, Monticello Elementary School and Blossom wood Elementary School. Wow. And I thought, you know, at each stop I’m like, wow, this is the best, this is where I want to end.

Christie: Yeah. And again, you know, those pivots happen in your life and, um, at that time, um, Dr. Wardy ski was our superintendent, and he asked us, What do you think about, you know, secondary? I’m like, Oh, I think it’s great. Well, the next thing, um, there was an opportunity to apply for Director of Secondary Programs in Huntsville City Schools.

Christie: And, um, I served in that capacity, and that was supervising and supporting principals and teachers in middle schools and high schools. And then we move on to, um, overseeing the consent order that we have in Huntsville City Schools. So I was, um, Director of Strategy and Innovation. And again, I thought that was the last step, you know, last stop.

Christie: And, um, then became Interim Superintendent and, you know, finally Superintendent. Whoo! So in each stop, I think, in each pivot, um, I still, I think it goes back to probably the, the best job I had would be, would be a teacher. Yeah. Because you can see as you, you know, go in different, um, positions that the work happens in the classroom.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: The work happens in the classroom. The work happens in the schools and, and being at the level of superintendent or any level and I think in a central office position. That hierarchy has to flip, and the teachers are at the top, and you’ve got to support.

Megan: Right.

Christie: Right.

Megan: Wow. So, there’s, there’s a lot there, and what an amazing history.

Megan: Yeah, a lot’s probably in there. I know, and that’s just, but that’s just such a, such an amazing journey, where you can see different perspectives, and then going into the post secondary, where you’re kind of working with more of the educators rather than the students, right? Right. Um, I would, and I have a, A ton of questions around that, but just be curious, like, when you look back at 31 years in education, all of those different roles that you’ve had, um, what have been, you know, if you can highlight one or two moments that really stick out as sort of the, not the, and I know you’ve had a lot of highlights of your career, right?

Megan: But is there one or two things that have really stuck out that have kind of like, I don’t know, summarized what education means to you in a way, like, and I know that’s probably a loaded question. That’s a really good question

Christie: because I think there’s a lot of things that, um, throughout 31 years that have kind of changed, you know, um, or, or caused me to, um, Maybe try something different, um, something new, um, but I think if I look at being the superintendent, um, since that’s probably one of the most, obviously the most recent, um, in my position in education.

Christie: Um, but, you know, challenges, because at that level, you’re, Typically you’re dealing with challenges, but I think coming in and having that support system of a wonderful board that we had and the cabinet, the staff at the central office, and really that commitment, um, because we had a lot of change in leadership at the time, um, but there were some things in place, right, that, uh, that previous superintendents have put in and, um, just to be able to springboard on that.

Christie: And previous superintendents had built a great team, um, and to be their cheerleader. I think that was important because what we found in on the March 13th of 2020 was COVID. And, you know, I think that was the time where, um, I realized the importance of faith and leaning on that, leaning on colleagues, uh, if it hadn’t been for, you know, of course my family, my husband, but also my colleagues, Dr.

Christie: Nichols and at the time, uh, Superintendent Alan Perkins. We were very, very close. Robbie Parker was superintendent also and he transitioned, he retired. Um. But the importance of being able to rely on your colleagues, your friends, your family in a time where decisions that are made aren’t always the ones people agree with or understand or how sometimes it was politicized when you’re trying to make decisions that are in the best interest of students, staff, and your community.

Christie: That’d be so hard. It was, it was hard. And I think two, um, things worth doing are going to be hard. Yeah. Um, and it was, it was a challenge. Um, you know, you look back and hindsight’s being 2020, no pun intended, but you know, you, you know, now what, how things have evolved with how we handle, you know, um, COVID, flu, et cetera.

Christie: Um, but it was a challenge. And I think that that was one thing that stood out most that, um, At the end of the day, you know, I, when you are in a position of CEO or president, you’re the one that has to, to take it so that your staff, your teachers can do the things they need to do.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: And I think that was, that was one of those challenging points and a turning point, um, that you can either, you know, you can.

Christie: You can be bitter about it, or you can be better about it, and you can dig in and do what you need to do.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: Um, and I would, I think that having that board support, and you’re in a great cabinet, um, and, and Huntsville City, I think of Mayor Battle and, and his staff that were very supportive, I think that was a defining moment that you, you know, you think maybe you are alone on the island, but you’re not.

Christie: Yeah. There is a community, and I think that’s one thing that really sets apart. Um, the city of Huntsville and this greater area in Madison County area is we all really are, we are supporting one another. And that was one of those moments for me that was an aha moment that I wasn’t alone.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: That there’s a support system in place and at the end of the day you’re going to do what’s best for kids.

Megan: Right. Right. And I mean, and you were, you know, indirectly building that tribe, right. From behind the scenes all along, leading up to that point. I mean, maybe not even realizing it. Right. That’s true. You know, and I think that’s one of the beauties that has one of the many, many beauties that have surfaced around Huntsville, just in my own personal experience, is that people here really seem to be all aiming towards a similar goal.

Megan: Right. And they’re all on the same page. Absolutely. You know, and there’s, there’s going to be differences here and there, but, um, you know, Getting, you know, the opportunity to kind of see the dynamic between you and Dr. Nichols was, number one, it was adorable. But number two, it was so admirable because I’m like, you guys like call each other every morning.

Megan: Oh, 100%. I’m gonna, I’m gonna call him after this. Yeah,

Christie: look, if you, I know I talked about you today. And then I’m gonna say, he’s gonna say, what’d you talk about me? Well, you’re just gonna have to watch and find out. That’s

Megan: right. That’s right. But it’s amazing that you have that, that, that peer, um, outlet there.

Megan: You know, where you guys can really help each other. And sometimes it’s hard to see. See the forest through the That’s right. And having someone, um, there to kind of hold you accountable and just let you know that it’s okay.

Christie: Yeah.

Megan: And just be, you know, a venting outlet is absolutely so important. Absolutely.

Megan: And not

Christie: necessarily that you need to solve a problem for me, but just like you said, to be able to, to get it off your chest and have someone to talk to. And I think, um, in any, probably in any job that you sit in and anyone that having that, that, um, network mm-hmm . That connection that you can collaborate.

Christie: Um, and also someone you trust, you know, is, um, it’s just important. It’s critical. Yeah, it’s

Megan: critical. So let’s talk a little bit about COVID because COVID was, um, and it’s not, it’s, it’s in the past and you know, I don’t want to harp on it, but there are so many, there’s so many good things I think that were also came out of that just from a learning perspective and building resilience and building, you know, understanding maybe where some potential weaknesses are right.

Megan: That you can be able to address. Um, but one of the things as well that. Again, our experience through the flagship program that really got us exposure to was there was a big discussion around mental health. Yes. Big discussion around mental health. And I am so glad that the dynamic and, you know, comfortability of that topic has become something that, um, is, is way more common.

Megan: Absolutely. Not taboo anymore. Absolutely. As it shouldn’t be. No. And that’s. It’s just in the last probably eight years, 10 years, you know, um, but one of the things that we noticed so much around COVID was again, big discussion around how are the students doing? How are the parents coping? All of the things, but there was also a lot of what’s going on with the teachers because now teachers are having to wear all of these extra hats and they’re having to be that counselor that they’re not necessarily trained for.

Megan: And, um, and then, you know, COVID is just one particular issue, but then you look at, you know, school shootings on the rise across the country and how teachers are having to respond to that. And so we’d love to just kind of get your perspective in that vein specifically around how things, not necessarily how things were handled, but what were some of the things learned there?

Megan: And what were some of the things that maybe, maybe, you know, the common public maybe just didn’t necessarily notice about the teachers specifically. Right. Because that was a, that was a big deal. It was a lot. And I think it was, you know, as a parent who had that. Three kids in school at that time, whoo, um, gave me such a newfound respect for teachers specifically.

Megan: Not that I didn’t have it before, but man, that was, I couldn’t even imagine, um, but just so hard to do and having to be able to react to and then having to kind of then respond to those students when they come back in after they’ve had this education gap. And anyway, so would love to just kind of hear your perspectives

Christie: on all of that.

Christie: I will say. You know, shout out to the parents because, I mean, that was a quick pivot, um, all three school systems were virtual for, what’s, first six weeks, four to six weeks, I believe, um, and that was tough. I mean, I can’t imagine, you know, you, you have a kindergartner who has not really had that experience, per se, in a maybe large classroom setting, a classroom of 18.

Christie: Maybe preschool experience, um, or first grader who that might have been the first year in a, you know, in the school system. Now you’re learning, you know, you’re teaching how to read while you’re also working or trying to work too, right? So, um, teachers having to pivot so that they’re, you know, Having to teach their lessons online, first grade teacher teaching phonics online and then having to create small groups online.

Christie: It was a lot and I commend our parents and I obviously commend the teachers and staff and principals because, you know, cafeteria workers, you know, our custodians, our school nurses, they were also backbone of how we were able to make this happen because they were still feeding students and we were doing mobile deliveries on, on our buses and we had, um, we placed our, you know, bus drivers also would take, um, our buses and have them in neighborhoods so students could have a Wi Fi access point if needed, right?

Christie: And then our business community, think about Huntsville Utilities and AdTran, they came in and, um, It put Wi Fi hotspots on the exterior of our schools so that, you know, you know, because we’re a community based schools primarily that students could access, um, internet also that way. So, I look back and it was a lot of pivoting, but I commend our community again and, um, the city’s support on making that happen.

Christie: We couldn’t have done it without them. We couldn’t have done it with this community. Really kind of all pushing in and I know it was difficult. I realize that And I appreciate and want to thank you know our parents and and maybe even apologize that That they had to go through that because I know it was hard I don’t think anybody

Megan: could have predicted any of that.

Megan: I mean truly Yeah, it was just everybody was to have in the reactionary mode of right.

Christie: What are we gonna do? How are we gonna mitigate this? And, um, you know, thinking about how do we get students back in the building and we wanted them back in the building. One thing I think you talk about, what do we, what do we learn from this?

Christie: I think you cannot give enough credit to what teachers do and the importance of face to face instruction. Um, it is critical. It is vital. And, um. And that appreciation for our teachers, uh, I will say, um, that I also commend the State Department of Education and our governor because she also sees the importance, you know, that we need to really start, um, that career readiness piece and really recruiting more high school students before they get into college to go into education.

Christie: It is a hard job. It’s a lower paying job. Um, but those that go into it, go into it because they have a heart for students. And wanting to make sure that they are, you know, giving back in a way that really does, you know, speak to them. Yeah. Yeah. Um, so also during that time, you know, school safety, always at the top.

Christie: of school systems and, um, obviously any, anyone’s, uh, you know, is a, is a priority. Um, and what we had, uh, what we started doing at the time was, um, installing, um, the weapons detection systems. That was, I believe, in twenty, twenty three, um, before I retired. And we started with, uh, in the high schools. And that was another pivot.

Christie: You know, parents were like, okay, why are we doing this? Are we creating, you know, you know, is it safe? Is it a safety thing? Or is it really making students feel, you know, some kind of way? But actually that was just a change and it does take a little time to get used to that. Um, and we do see a lot of more school systems moving toward that.

Christie: Does that mitigate all safety concerns? I’m not sure. You still have to have things in place and, um, again, I, I credit, uh, the city of Huntsville and our SROs. You know, we can’t thank, I cannot thank them enough. We have a great part. We had a. Still have a great partnership with Huntsville Police. Um, but I think all systems, school systems, superintendents, that was at the height of um, you know, you have COVID and then school safety, you had a lot of school threats going on at the time, and how do we get ahead of that?

Christie: Uh, that became one of the focus points that we would talk to our, uh, Madison County delegation about. We have a wonderful delegation here in our area, and you know, they were our advocates at the state level of the, the need for funding for school safety. Um. Also, during COVID, we, uh, the federal government gave several, gave all school districts, um, several buckets of federal money.

Christie: And some of that money could be used to enhance school safety. And so that’s how we were able to, um, you know, onboard additional security officers, not just from the Huntsville police, but within our own, um, security system in Huntsville. in the school system. So we’re able to do a lot more things, provide some professional development for teachers, um, uh, help pay for additional school nurses.

Christie: So a lot of the funding that came because of the COVID, uh, the COVID monies were allowed us to do a lot more things. Um, of course, we had to keep in mind that once that money runs out, how do we continue to provide those services? And I do know, um, at this point that school systems are doing that. And this, you know, the legislature also are taking that into account of how can we, um, really look into making sure that we’re paying our teachers more and updating what they currently have as the foundation model, which is a whole nother episode probably.

Christie: Um, but I think the things that happened during COVID. really did bring heightened awareness to how do we continue to fund those things that we know should be there in, in the first place. Right, right.

Megan: Well, I mean, and they, you have to be able to, you have to be able to respond effectively when things get tight and challenges happen.

Megan: And as devastating as COVID was, I think it really, you know, shined a light on areas that, hey, we need to. We need to be able to supplement this more. That’s right. For these reasons, right? Um, so silver lining, I guess, if we could look at something, you know, that maybe came out of that. Um, and I don’t want to spend too, too much time on it, but talking about a little bit around reform and how do, how is, how is the state of Alabama helping to get more teachers into positions?

Megan: And is, is there some, Fix their solution there to help with higher compensation and more training, you know what I mean? Just that way it’s and I get it You’ve got to have the heart to go into education, but people need to afford to go into education as well You know, right and I hate that It’s it’s a career path that a lot of people decide to not go into because of that reason So how are we fixing that?

Christie: Well again, I applaud our, our legislature because they see the importance and, uh, and our governor, she was a former teacher, uh, that they have invested in giving raises to, to educators and still understand the need to increase that because it is probably, it’s a tough job, but, but like you said, when we’ve talked about it, it’s a critical job.

Christie: Um, and our local school systems, they see the value in it as well and, um, many in the past not only give that, the raise that the state passes, but also local raises too, um, to make it more enticing. I will say one thing we’ve seen in our districts was that teachers can leave, a math and science teacher can go work anywhere in Huntsville, you know, because we’re, you know, known for Arsenal and different businesses.

Christie: Lots of industries where that carries over for sure. So we, you know, we, we wanted to make sure that we were. competitive to a degree that would allow us to be, um, and our, our, our local districts still look at that as, you know, we’ve got to make sure that we are retaining our teachers. And sometimes it’s not just in the financial part of it or aspect of it, but also how are we feeding our teachers professionally too.

Christie: And I know that Huntsville City Schools is doing that. Madison City and Madison County each in their own way based on the needs that they have but in particular with Huntsville City Schools they have a partnership with Toyota and They were all working together on really, you know Providing some additional professional development.

Christie: I know that there’s Different ways to retain their math and science teachers governor the governor passed this but actually dr Mackie put it in place the team’s act which is a way to retain math and science teachers with an additional stipend, um, for that. So, and, you know, you have different things that I think each district, again, has done to, to increase the, the need, um, in recruitment, but also in retention, whether it be job fairs or, you know, just really open their doors, like come talk to us.

Christie: Yeah. So we want, we want you to come and work. The other thing is, is you don’t have to have a certification, you know, so we’re reaching out. Come, come work with us and we’ll get you through those courses to get you certified.

Megan: That’s amazing. That is so great. That is so great. Um, one last question on your education career and then we’re going to switch gears just a little bit.

Megan: Um, but one of the things that you mentioned was that you, Truly had a teacher when you were younger who took a pause and helped you in a moment where you really needed it and you really felt that that had a true impact in kind of changing the trajectory of your life a little bit. 100%. So, would love to just hear that story a little bit.

Megan: And, and I think this, you know, I love having three kids myself, you know, and obviously I haven’t been an educator, but I, you know, it doesn’t take much to, you know, provide an impact on a young child when they may not have some of those. Those resources to allow that at home or may not have the opportunities to kind of think beyond what they see in their near term, right?

Megan: So, and it gives me goosebumps thinking about it, but I’ve had teachers like that as well, you know, where, I mean, I was telling my kids the other night a story about this one instance that happened in high school and that was what, like, truly put me on a path. Um, so we’d love to just hear that story from your perspective and kind of what that means to you.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: Probably a lot of people heard the story. Um, uh, you know, I, From early on, I was an avid reader. Loved to read. Um, math was not so much something that I was drawn to. Um, second grade, kind of, in second grade actually, there’s, one of the math concepts was, um, cat, money, making change. And, back in the day, we, our math manipulatives were paper coins.

Christie: And, that’s how old I am. Uh, and, I struggled making change. from a dollar and, you know, how much you were to give back to someone if you had to make change. And, um, was actually held back. My classmates went to recess. I stayed in the classroom and was told to figure it out. I couldn’t. What we know now, what that would be is a learning disability.

Christie: Because I couldn’t understand really the concept of subtraction. It really wasn’t about the change. It was about subtraction. And Moved in the third grade and still struggling, but I was a compliant student. I sat up front. I did all the things to get by and get through. Again, loved reading. But math was just an issue, and still struggling with that.

Christie: I had a, um, little medical setback, which ironically caused me not to be able to participate in P. E. So I’m in the classroom again. Um, my teacher, her name is, uh, uh, Miss Burwell. And I thought she was just stunning. She, you know, would always wear the nice two piece suits with heels. And I think, when I taught, I was like, there’s no way I can wear this.

Christie: So I was just impressed with that. But, um, she was also an amazing teacher. Um, and she recognized quickly that, you know, something wasn’t clicking. Um, and, you know, one day we were sitting there and she was, she was like, Christy, I need you to hand out some papers. I need you to put, you know, five on each, um, And then she said, you know what?

Christie: I need you to go back. I need you to take two from here, three from here. Now tell me how many, you know, what’s left over here? And what she was doing was really scaffolding math for me and breaking it down. And I was like, oh, there’s this many left. And she said, okay. Well, she really was the one who changed.

Christie: She was my change maker, as I would say. And I would tell teachers today, and that was kind of the thing, was they’re change makers in lives. And I was very blessed to have her really recognize that, feed, me with additional supports in class to kind of close that gap that I was, that I was having, you know, the irony is I ended up teaching economics, you know, so, uh, um, I will say, uh, I still keep in contact with her.

Christie: In fact, this past summer, um, I was in, I was asked to do an article of a teacher that really kind of changed me. And I reached out to her and I was able to go to her house. We had a photo shoot, had a lovely talk. She’s delightful, um, and she still remembers all the things, I mean, to, to the detail. She goes, you know, she would say, you remember so and so in class?

Christie: I was like, yes, ma’am. And so it’s just, uh, it’s just great. So I told her, I said, I am eternally grateful for you for, for what you’re able to do. And there are so many teachers who do that daily. Um, that I hope that, That whoever is listening can remember just one person, one teacher, many teachers who had that kind of impact.

Megan: Yeah.

Christie: Uh, and I was very blessed to have that happen because third grade is a pivotal year. It’s typically you hear that, um, the odd number of years where new content is introduced and third grade is one of those years. It’s a formative year. Right? So, um, to be able to close that gap, to get me on track, um, and on grade level.

Christie: It changed my life. Absolutely.

Megan: Changed my life. I mean, think about what that did for your confidence and your ability to just be more, you know, confident in your own ability to pursue new, new projects and new subjects and everything. That’s amazing. I think a huge lesson here is the change maker. Yeah.

Megan: I know that teachers are that change maker every day. I think as a parent, also recognizing that too, I think is so critical, you know, and really leaning into your kids and it’s, it’s, there’s little things that you can say and do. I think that can completely be a game changer, you know, when it comes to things like that.

Megan: So, I just love that. so much for sharing that story. And I love how now, and I love how you, um, retired from education and then quickly realized that that wasn’t going to work out for you.

Christie: I think it was, actually. Second weekend, you know, I was like, oh, you know, everybody’s back at work. Well, it was summer, but then everybody went back to work.

Christie: And I was like, everybody I know works, right? And I did some consulting with other school districts a little bit. And, um, I did some other consulting where I was still able to see my superintendent friends. And that was great. Um, but, you know, I would come back home, you know, filling for Phil, working with school districts and, and helping with some strategic plans and working in classrooms, working with principals.

Christie: But there was something missing. And that was just the love for this community. I mean, I, you know, again, a native here. I love this area. I love Huntsville. I love Madison County. I love North Alabama. Um, and yeah, so that kind of brings us where I am

Megan: now. Which is amazing. Yeah. And the leadership of Greater Huntsville.

Megan: It’s an organization that well, I mean, you talk a little bit about it. I know of it from my own personal experience, and I will say when you, um, when you announced your retirement, I think everybody was just like, Hmm, how long is that going to last? You know, not long at all. Um, and you know, leadership, greater Huntsville.

Megan: It’s such an amazing organization and, um, Shannon Drake was in the former CEO, did a phenomenal job and great leadership with that organization and, um, and absolutely stunningly beautiful as well. The first time I met her, I was like, Oh, inside and out, she’s, yeah, she’s just beautiful. Um, but such an amazing organization that, um, I’m so excited with your leadership now too.

Megan: And I think, you know, again, just bringing some fresh perspectives to how you can kind of level things up a little bit and promote them. And, um, you know, being part of, uh, one of those programs was It’s such a game changer for me personally, so for those that don’t know a little bit about Leadership Greater Gainesville, just share a little bit about it and it’s fun.

Christie: Yeah, so actually we’re approaching our 40th year. Can you believe that? Oh my gosh. So, stay tuned. Exciting things happening. Gotta has a good time. Oh,

Megan: I know. I know. Um. Is it 40 years in 20, in 25 or 26? It’ll be the next

Christie: year. 26, ok. We’ll have; this next year is class 39 for flagships. Ok. So, the following year will be 40.

Christie: Woohoo! That’s exciting. And um, although 35 is still the best class ever, right? Best class ever. But you mentioned Shannon Drake. She’s the one who reached out to me and encouraged me to apply for flagships. It’s full circle and um, I cannot say every CEO in the past, the staff members in the past really have elevated every person who’s walked through those doors has elevated Leadership Greater Huntsville and those who’ve been participants and those who have volunteered.

Christie: But Leadership Greater Huntsville, you know, when you look at our, our mission, you know, we are there to inspire, to educate, to identify, and to connect. to build a better community. And, um, you know, when I, when I was, when I saw that there was a position available, um, I was like, wow. This is what it’s about.

Christie: This is what I, you know, I’m interested in. Not sure I’ll get the position, but I’m going to put my name out there because it is about community. It’s what that gap I’ve been missing for the year to be back and working together. Because it was Leadership Greater Huntsville when I went through flagship.

Christie: As you know, when you went through. You know, as a native and living here all my life, I’m like, what am I going to learn? I know everything about Huntsville, and I don’t mean that in like a kind of way, but yeah, Every program day, and I know you would probably agree. I walked away going. Oh my gosh the resources here in our community the things that our nonprofits do for so many people in our community in this greater area is unbelievable.

Christie: Our city government, you know, um, our public and, you know, public safety day, help them wellness, what our hospital systems do for us, Crestwood and Huntsville Hospital, I mean, every day was just like, oh my goodness, and it changed me, you know, I was able to take something away and then pay it forward somehow.

Christie: in the role that I serve, just as we all did, right? In the small group projects, things like that. But at the end of the day, it really is trying to engage the leaders, and emerging leaders, and connect them to our community through servant leadership, right? And being that facilitator, um, Leadership Greater Huntsville serves as that facilitator, that springboard, that connectivity that once you go through, it’s, it’s just a family, right?

Christie: It is a community. Yeah. And to be able to grow that community, I’m excited to be in this position. I cannot say enough about the staff. They are phenomenal. Um, we are small, but mighty. Yeah. Uh, but I think what makes it so wonderful is that. It’s the community that’s been built. It’s those volunteers. It’s the board.

Christie: It’s the previous, you know, leadership flagship, class one. When you look at those folks who’ve gone through, you’re like, wow. You know, they’ve made, um, they’ve built other leaders. And that’s what leaders do, right? At the end of the day, you look up the word leader and its influence. You can influence for good, or you can influence for bad.

Christie: It’s just however you choose to use that. leverage, right? And this organization obviously is influenced for good because people that walk through those doors and they have many titles and have done many things or, you know, innovative and creative and entrepreneurs and all the things, but when they walk through and they become that class, it’s powerful.

Christie: And the things that you’ve seen that, that we’ve seen just in our class alone, when we went through, whether even, whether it be a flagship class or high school classes challenge or the You know, the connect class for emerging leaders, um, it’s just phenomenal. Yeah. Uh, the impact, and I think that’s, you know, what you see.

Christie: You see we have impact reports, but really what impact does Leadership Greater Huntsville have in our community and the Greater Huntsville area? North Alabama is, um, is that hopefully we can be that bridge that connects, um, emerging leaders or someone new to our community, even though focus. Right. That you have a place and a space.

Christie: In this area. Mm hmm. Absolutely.

Megan: And you can kind of find, um, you know, you can, through leadership, you can really get exposed to things that you didn’t necessarily know you might have a vested interest in. Right. Absolutely. So, for, for those that aren’t familiar with the program, um, it’s about a 10 month program?

Megan: Yes. Yes. Right? And, and so every month, you’ve got a program day. Right. And so, when Kristi and I were in flagship, it was, um, I mean, it’s 7 a. m. and it’s 7 p. m. My husband’s like, are you coming home? But it was every month, there’s a different theme where you focus on different aspects of your community. And similar to you, I’ve been, when I took that program, I have lived here for, at the time, maybe 15 years or so.

Megan: And similar to you, I was definitely not as involved in the community as you had been. But I’m like, I’ve been here for so long. What am I going to learn? You know? And it was like I had stepped into a new city really. Um, and of course the communications person in me is like, the city needs to promote this stuff way more than they are right now, you know?

Megan: Um, but I was, um, my, I was just blown away at the amount of, So, similar to you, the resources in our community, but the people who are doing good as well. Absolutely. And one of the things about, and leadership is great in that it meets everybody where they are, whether you’re a high school or college student or you’re earlier in your career or you’re a little bit more seasoned like we were when we did flagship, um, but also too, you know, the, um, each of the groups do small group projects where they physically pick an initiative or a nonprofit and, you know, they, they physically do a give back program.

Megan: That’s part of their program. And so that aspect is just amazing. And the amount of good news stories that have come out of that, I mean, are just, again, I’m like, we need to get that front and center because you guys have just, it’s been such a catalyst for change, I think, in this community. And to your point, you know, I think people leave really.

Megan: thinking what can I do to get back? How can I be that servant leader? What board can I go join? That way I can make an impact on things. And this

Christie: becomes that platform and springboard for people to do just that. And especially with all the people that are new to this area moving in, FOCUS is a great You know, place to, to, to push in and, and we will take you in and show you all the things Huntsville in two and a half days and it’s busy, busy, busy.

Christie: But it really is a phenomenal program. And a great entry point for anyone who’s interested. Everyone’s welcome. Yeah. We have reboot days that anyone can come to. We have our community conversations. So, we really want this to be an, uh, avenue for people to plug in. Yeah. You know, you know, use us as that way that we can.

Christie: we can help leverage experiences for you. Right. So, um, you mentioned small group projects, the things that, you know, I look back and see, um, as I’ve kind of gone through, uh, our different journals and portfolios that we’ve kept over the years, um, projects that created one in particular is Navigate that the Community Foundation now has.

Christie: It was a, that really evolved from a small

Megan: group project. Huge event that helps nonprofits with different resources and speakers and things like that, but great event. Yeah. That, yeah. Yeah. I think a lot of people look forward to every year, but that came out of, yeah, it came out of leadership too, which is awesome.

Christie: And then, you know, I can’t say enough, um, about those that, uh, we reach out to ask them, hey, can we, you know, use your space to, to have our meeting or our program day or, um, can you come and talk to our class? You know, the mayors come and speak and different, uh, our superintendents. Our, uh, arsenal with Behind the Gate, they open up so we can see, you know, really what’s, what’s taking place.

Christie: And everybody just really wraps their arms and embraces, um, Leadership Greater Huntsville, which we are very appreciative for. And you can’t, I can’t say enough about our volunteers. Yeah. Who, who’ve been through the program, who believe in what, what we do and what they have done. And we couldn’t do it, right, without our, our steering committee, our board support.

Christie: Yeah. program, uh, day program, um, chairs as well and our volunteers that, um, come out and make our program days so great. Which are so much fun. Oh, they’re so much fun. Like, it’s a lot of work, but it’s so much fun. Yes.

Megan: Like, it’s, it’s such a great time. Um, so, you guys, it’s the start of the 2025 year. Yeah. Um, your applications are open for all, all programs right now.

Megan: All programs. They all, they all run concurrently. Right. Right. I mean, yeah, I know, I guess it kind of has to run that way, you know, otherwise you would just never get any sleep throughout the course of the year. So, applications are open now to join and Christy did not ask me to say this at all, but we are huge proponents of greater leadership Huntsville programs here at Flourish.

Megan: I’ve done one. Nicole Bonin has done one. Allison is currently in Connect right now, Allison Richter, um, and the program is. It’s hands down one of the best experiences you can go through, um, not only from an exposure and how can I get involved and, but you also know. Put my money where my mouth is, you know, but also too you have this camaraderie and sisterhood and brotherhood of people who you are just part of forever, which I love so much.

Megan: And any single event, and my kids laugh, they’re like, we can’t go anywhere without you seeing somebody that you know. I’m like, I have leadership to thank for that. I’m like, because you make 54. That’s awesome. You’ve got friends on day one, right? That’s right. That’s right. That you don’t know you’re going to be friends.

Megan: Immediately. And they’re all movers and shakers. Yes. And plugged in, which is just so exciting. So, with the applications open, with it being the start of the year, what are some of the big things you’re excited about? Oh, yeah. In the next couple of months?

Christie: So, we actually are working on a strategic plan. Very excited about that.

Christie: Excited. We’ve sent out our surveys. to get feedback. Um, we are looking at, um, our vision, mission, as you do in a strategic plan. Um, uh, our core values, what we believe in, what do we, you know, what we’re kind of going back to what I mentioned earlier, looking at the past, reflecting on the past. We’re looking at the present and where do we want to be?

Christie: What does our future state look like for Leadership Greater Huntsville? And really kind of pushing in and some things that are coming out that we’re looking at and we are doing is we also recognize that there are some ums, organizations, businesses that can’t come and take part of the program because they are needed in, they can’t leave.

Christie: Maybe they work on a line or whatever. They are needed there. So, working with our um, with industries across the area to push in and provide program like days without them having to leave. Oh, that’s interesting. So, you know, kind of merging. You bring leadership to them a little bit. Yeah, so, um, you know, that’s one thing we want to do is really push out into the community, um, and provide those Same experiences for those who take part in our programs.

Christie: Maybe for those who this cannot be that avenue for them. That’s great and looking at an Onboarding some new programs stay tuned pretty excited about this one Kind of goes back to some of the changemaker stuff. We’ve talked about today. I really want to share it, but I’m going to wait Yeah, maybe I come back and share it.

Christie: It’s going to be great. Okay, and then looking at some leadership summit opportunities in our community that we can partner with other organizations and provide some conferences and things like that. Because we also recognize that if you’re not in a program, you can still participate in some networking opportunities.

Christie: So, um, there’s a lot coming, uh, coming from outside of Leadership Greater Huntsville for our community. Um, but still we, we recognize that our programs are great. We have great program directors. Um, and we are starting now working with our joint steering committees actually next week. Just sit down and look at our program and our content days, um, and maybe add some interesting things and some new flavors.

Megan: That’s exciting. That’s exciting. I always wonder how you can top previous years of programming, you know. It’s good stuff. Not that you necessarily have to because it’s a new group that comes in, right? Right. But it always makes me wonder how that happens, you know what I mean? The magic is made behind the scenes.

Megan: How the sauce is made. It is. I mean, it’s just, it’s, and I think it’s, you know, when you have, you know, Community leaders who have a vested interest. I mean they want to open their doors to kind of share with that story and we appreciate

Christie: that so much. Yeah, because we also know that their days are very busy Um, but you know that really It is what separates our programs because we do have, um, business and industry who are like, yeah, come on in and we want you, we want to work with you.

Christie: So, we appreciate that. Um, but yeah, this month is, we’re rolling our application. It’s our recruitment month and we have some socials coming up. We’re working with Honest Coffee, um, and we have a social January 23rd from 4. 30 to 6 and one on January 31st from 8. 30 to 10. Um, Honest Coffee, we appreciate them because they have a leadership acai bowl right now for Leadership Greater Huntsville, they’ve created.

Christie: And if you go in, um, and you’re a Leadership Greater Huntsville alumnus, just show your badge and you get 10 percent off of, um, anything in Honest Coffee, from downtown Huntsville in Madison. Oh, so good. So good. So, shout out to them for, for their collaboration and supporting us. So, we’re excited. It’s a great month and, uh, great things are happening, um, and, and applications are open till when?

Christie: 10. Um, through 1st of

Megan: March. 1st of

Christie: March. Yeah. So, about another

Megan: month and a half or so to get those in. Yes, yes.

Christie: And of course, Focus. We have a Focus program running in April. Um, that, that’s applications out there as well. That is awesome.

Megan: Okay. Very exciting. Well, we’ll definitely help promote that for sure.

Megan: Thank you. And again, cannot be, cannot advocate enough for the leadership programs. Oh, thanks. I mean, all aspects. It’s great. Great, thanks. Fantastic. And whether, again, you’re a little bit more seasoned in your career or you’re a recent graduate, you know what I mean, from college or, you know, again, new to the area with the focus program, like there is something literally for everybody.

Megan: Perfectly said. And if you’re, and if you’re an employer who has employees coming in, what a great perk and benefit that you can provide to them, not only from a professional development perspective, but I think You know, there’s so many benefits, but I think the one thing, especially with at least some of our team members, is building the network.

Megan: Absolutely. Because you are immediately thrust into, um, avenues of individuals that you would never maybe get exposure to before. Um, I think Forever friends, right? Forever friends, right. I mean, I think that was one of the, one of my most favorite things about going through that program was just meeting people that I truly never would have had the opportunity to meet.

Megan: Um, and you know, there was a point in my career very early on when I would, you know, maybe look at an engineer or look at someone who is in a different field and not think that I had something in common with that person just because, right. Um, and I love that leadership in me. Personal opinion, I almost feel like titles a little bit were just stripped from day one.

Megan: And everybody was, you know. Barriers were broken. Exactly. Yeah. And I loved that because that opening retreat when we got a chance to meet everybody and do the name game. I was like, I don’t belong here. I don’t think I should be here. And all the bellies. Sorry Billie’s for listening. Right. Um, but it’s a little intimidating because you’re like, holy cow, there’s just a lot of amazing people here.

Megan: There was a lot

Christie: and amazing people, that’s the thing, and forever friends and, um, opportunities that you know, helped. Our businesses, but more importantly that you know that if you needed someone, they could call they would answer absolutely and they’d be there for you Yeah, and still are

Megan: well, and I think leadership greater Huntsville really mirrors who this community is yes, and there’s such a complimentary aspect to What I believe is what North Alabama really represents, and I think you can see that in in this program.

Megan: Right. Um, and in this initiative, I mean, it’s just, it’s like, it’s almost like the commercial for what Huntsville and Madison County is. You know what I’m saying? Yeah. It’s a very different city. Everybody who lives here knows that. Um, they’re like, oh, you live in Alabama. I’m like, it’s very different from the state of Alabama, but not that they’re, you know, but it’s, it’s a unique place.

Megan: Yeah. I think until people get a chance to experience that, they don’t really know what that means. Yeah. And

Christie: North Alabama and their leadership programs, you know, across North Alabama and of course, across the state. Yep. Um, but They’re very robust as well and do great things, so it is, um, they’re great programs.

Christie: Yeah. And if you’re listening somewhere else, not in, you know, this area, you know, reach out, be a, be a part, push in, be a part of your community because, um, the backbone of every community is people being involved. Yeah. And, and helping out, being a servant leader, giving back. That’s what makes community strong.

Christie: Agreed. Completely. I love it. Thank you

Megan: Christy

Christie: so

Megan: much. Thank you! I love to see how your career of education has kind of come full circle. And you’re still staying in that same lane, but just in a different aspect. I’ve

Christie: been very blessed and I appreciate this opportunity. And don’t take, I won’t take it lightly because I love this town, I love this community.

Christie: Um, and hope that I can give back in some way. Yeah. For those that poured into me. I appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you, guys, so

Megan: much for tuning in. Thanks so much. I appreciate it.

Christie: See y’all later.

Megan: All right. Perfect. Thank y’all. Piece of cake.