Suzan Samaha
Dr. Rev Hillstrom is a Mentor, Coach and Friend. My capacity as an Equity Educator and Leader has increased and continues to grow with the support of Dr. Rev Hillstrom. Rev is very approachable and coaches through asking reflective questions. He is inspiring and is able to connect to the values that are most important to me. His coaching is centered in ‘the human purpose.’ This connects to the CLEAR Model that he was given. He approaches each coaching session with a variety of tools utilized by Intercultural Innovations Inc (I3). These tools support learning that is connected to my human purpose. It is impossible to sit in the presence of Rev and not learn something new.
As an equity teacher, I was able to support teachers 1:1 with creating culturally validating lessons. His framework is relevant and effective for all educators across all content and grade levels. Teachers would leave the coaching session saying things like, “ I feel that I’m back to feeling why I wanted to be a teacher in the first place.” The I3 system tools that Rev uses are easy to understand and truly make a positive impact on adults and students.
On a more personal level, I am a better human-being because of Rev. As a Muslim Egyptian American Woman of Color, Rev is able to center the intersectionalities of my identities and coach me through my values. Rev models CLEAR authentically as he collaborates with others. He helps the process of translating convictions into purposeful actions. He is gifted in challenging and influencing people to become more conscious equity leaders. I am reminded each day how I am connecting to my human purpose.
I highly encourage people to learn more about the CLEAR Model and the other Intercultural Innovations Inc. (I3) system tools. I promise it’ll increase your equity capacity within your classroom, leadership role and society.