What they are saying

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“Thank you for your inspirational words at our 2022 Annual Conference. It was a pleasure to meet you and learn from your session. We appreciate your participation and willingness to share your knowledge and expertise with the SAIS community through a keynote and breakout session. Your contribution was a huge factor in the success of the overall event!”

Elizabeth M.

Director of Learning, Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)

“Authentic, inspirational, and incredibly relevant for all educational leaders.”

Rhonda B.

Assistant Head of School for Academic Affairs, Battle Ground Academy

“Reggie may well have taken the advice of Winston Churchill in preparing for his thought-provoking 12-minute keynote for Goodwill’s Impact Breakfast: The shorter the speech, the more preparation is required. Reggie attacked his topic, perseverance, with candor and humor, immediately engaging the audience with a provocative question, and circling back to conclude with an impactful message. His inspiration came from his own life experience, and resonated with each person there, no matter the age or station in life. I was impressed and grateful for his depth, vulnerability and passion.”

Beth A.

Vice President, Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee

“Reggie was a keynote speaker at our SAIS conference. He spoke to the needs of ALL students and their connections within school. I found his talk connective and genuine. He was honest about his experience and time at independent schools. All would benefit from his vast wisdom on life and preserving through adversity.”

Steven N.

Director of Curriculum and Applied Learning, Rabun Gap Nacoochee School

“I had Reggie as a virtual guest speaker for my middle school students and it was truly a pleasure!  Albeit virtual, he was able to engage and connect to the students as if he were present in-person.  Reggie spoke to the students in a way that they not only could relate to him, but be open with him.  If anyone knows how middle school aged students are, it can take some time for them to open up to people.  I highly recommend if ever there is an opportunity to have him speak with a group to share a story that is more than a testament to his success, but his survival.  His story serves as not only a motivational one, but one that speaks to the fortitude needed to be successful no matter what.  Reggies forever has an open invitation to speak with my students, as positive role models will always be needed.  I am proud to say I have been a witness to his journey to greatness!”

Jada V.

Elementary School Educator, Atlanta SMART Academy

Your talk was personal and engaging. The background and how you were able to reflect upon it to make choices throughout your life for your future and its impact on those around you was inspiring. The advice and actionable insights on how to connect with our students, especially those who are not in the predominant culture, were practical and useful for teachers and caregivers. Thank you!

Castlen K.

Middle School Educator, Jackson Academy

“When I invited Reggie to share his story with my 11th-grade classes, I had no idea the lasting impact his words would have on my students. Within minutes Reggie was able to engage my students with his experiences of struggle and success. His stories connected with my students in ways that were authentic and vulnerable. His “open-book” approach to presenting allowed my students to feel safe in sharing their own struggles that have otherwise been kept hidden beneath tough exteriors. I constantly have students requesting to borrow my copies of his book to learn more. They continue to ask about when Reggie will return and very much want him to be present as a mentor for them as they begin their own journeys after high school.”

Libby B.

High School Educator, Metro Nashville Public Schools

“I have heard Reggie speak several times to independent school audiences and I think his message is very appropriate for our schools in understanding the point of view of minority students in our schools. It has been an eye opening experience for me as a school administrator to learn of his experiences which I believe are very similar to the experiences of many minority students in our schools. While many school administrators think their schools do a good job integrating minority students into their schools, it is shocking and sad to learn of the actual experiences of many students.

Reggie is an engaging speaker and will educate independent school leaders on the reality of the independent school experience for many minority students. He has a powerful story that is important for school leaders to hear so they can see independent schools through the eyes of a minority student.”

Palmer B.

Executive Director, Palmetto Association of Independent Schools

“Reggie has a gift… to encourage, challenge, and give us hope through extraordinary storytelling.”

Doreen K.

Head of School, Ravenscroft School

“It was amazing. Our faculty, staff, and students especially have raved about having you on campus.  I think it was the perfect way to start our new semester.”

Kelly F.

Assistant Head of School, Currey Ingram Academy

“This was an open, honest and real sharing that I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to hear. There were clear steps and suggestions to take away and take action!”

Grace W.

Director of Academic Support, Ashley Hall

“You provide a story every educator needs to hear. Your own experience makes your story compelling to the independent school world.”

David F.

Head of School, The Benjamin School

“Reggie’s story is amazing. Students of all backgrounds would greatly benefit from hearing it. His advice and guidance would be life-changing to those who fully digest it. Your talk was the highlight of the conference for me.”

Steven H.

Assistant Academic Dean, Riverside Military Academy

“Reggie’s story and personal vulnerability profoundly inspires. He is authentic and focused on sparking positive shifts in understanding. Resilience, perseverance and optimism shine through his every word!”

Jackie W.

Head of School, Grandview Preparatory School

“Reggie is a dynamic speaker with an incredible story to tell, and he provided clear action steps on how to build authentic connections and a sense of belonging in any community.”

Nathan B.

Associate Head of School, Forsyth Country Day School

“This was an absolute home run presentation. I was inspired and affirmed in what we are trying to do in our school and with our mission!”

Matt I.

Head of School, Community Christian School

“I absolutely enjoyed your keynote today! You are an inspiration and a blessing to those who are fortunate to hear your story. Thank you!”

Kelsey M.

Educator

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