I’ve decided it’s time for me to move on from NCG.
I’m proud of our work together, the brand and experience we’ve created and the stories we’ve told on stage, on Zoom, and in our writing. I’m especially proud that we created the Communications Institute, now in its second cohort.
There’s never going to be a good time to leave this wondrous group of people. But I know I need to make space for what’s next.
These past few years, I’ve gravitated toward communications strategy and storytelling. Our vulnerability and humanity connect the stories we tell and the meaning we make of them. At NCG, I’ve seen that we can shift narratives in ways that are transforming philanthropy. We can influence philanthropy to align with its own aspirations for social good. And we can strengthen relationships and enjoy one another along the way.
Some of you know I’ve just finished co-writing a book. I didn’t want to jinx it, and kept it fairly quiet. But the process was deeply energizing for me and it’s been well received by our publisher. I was surprised to have the experience of getting into creative flow. That was new.
A dose of good strategy can make the difference between communications that's launched out into the world, and communications that lands where it's needed to move the right people in the right way to the right action. That work never gets old for me.
And I’m interested in producing more stories that can hold the complexity of our lives. Life is messy - messier than we sometimes feel permission to express. Can we, as storytellers, do justice to the contradictory truths that are part of both personal transformation and systemic change? If we are more vulnerable, can we create openings for deeper connection, and wider portals for collective change? I want to find out.
I’m looking forward to continuing to be in touch and connected to you and to NCG. My last day in the office will be September 9th and after that, I’ll be consulting with NCG in an advisory capacity.
My best to you in this wonderful work.
Emily