Hoops, hollers, cheers, and applause rang out Wednesday night as another cohort of 27 esteemed young professionals crossed the stage at Project LEAD Graduation.

“With over 30 years of history and over 1,200 alumni, Project LEAD remains rooted and centered on BIPOC experiences,” reflected Frances Francia, one of the program’s newest graduates. “In the current political climate, where diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are being threatened and outlawed, this cohort showcased the power and beauty of diversity. Not only were we diverse in our identities, but in thought and lived experience.”

The festivities started with hors d’oeuvres, networking, and drinks before the party coalesced around the stage for graduation. Amelia Ransom, the former VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Smartsheet, addressed the room.

“If you feel sorry for the people you’re serving, please stop,” Ransom said to a chorus of light snapping. “If you believe, though, that the people you’re serving deserve everything you have and more, keep going.”

Ransom went on to share anecdotes about her time in corporate America and service with various boards. Raised in the shadow of the Civil Rights Movement, Ransom shared that in order to create real systems change, you need to believe—possibly even with a childlike wonder—that change is possible.

“Any success we have in creating the world we’ve all been told we can exist in, will require us to perhaps set a course we’ve never seen before, and to believe a thing on someone else’s behalf,” Ransom said, addressing the room of Project LEADers, preparing to cross the stage.

One by one, the cohort members took the stage, crossing as their names were called. Raucous cheers and applause followed them.

“Our trainings were engaging, informative and relevant. Every session was staffed by seasoned trainers with a wealth of experience in nonprofit work, board governance, and service to our communities,” Francia contined. “Our diversity generated lively discussion, probing questions, and an unending desire to learn more. Our Color Brave Space Norms allowed us to build trust and psychological safety early on, creating a safe space for our growth and curiosity. Our differences only reinforced our dedication to preparing ourselves to serve our communities.

As we step forward in our journeys, I know we will all carry this experience with us as a shining example of how diversity can create a culture of belonging in a shared pursuit of equity,” Francia continued.