Dianne Huslin’s journey to becoming founding principal of the award-winning, Gates Foundation-funded High School of Science and Technology in San Diego was a long one — and it didn’t end there.

When she talks about her job as director of culturally and linguistically responsive initiatives for the Buffalo Public Schools, Dalphne Bell reflects on “being a Black woman who didn’t grow up experiencing celebratory Black culture or any other cultural celebrations.” She adds, “It was Thanksgiving, and I only learned that the Pilgrims and everyone were having a nice meal.”