September 20, 2024

Dear NewRoot Community,

As the school year gains momentum, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering commitment to leveraging restorative and social-emotional practices. Together, we’ve helped young people thrive to achieve their educational and life goals.

In the past few years, NewRoot has grown from impacting 10,000 students annually to over 100,000 students across the Chicagoland area. This 10x progress is not possible without you. Through our collaboration, we've reduced suspension and expulsion rates, improved student attendance, and fostered healthier school communities.

After 30 years of dedicated service to the field of education, including her impactful leadership at NewRoot, Jackie Lemon has chosen to retire and will be stepping down as CEO. We celebrate her incredible career and are grateful for her continued support for NewRoot during this time of transition and beyond. We look forward to seeing her flourish in her next chapter, carrying with her the legacy she has built.

While we'll miss Jackie, we are pleased to share that we have appointed a trusted and experienced interim leadership team to guide the organization during this transition.

Angela Cobb, a former NewRoot board member, will serve as Interim CEO. Angela is a long-time advocate and leader in the education space through her consulting firm, FirstGen Partners, at Teach For America, and at the New Options Project. She will serve the organization with deep expertise and passion for our mission. Partnering with her will be Dr. Kara Allen, whose previous leadership as CEO and deep understanding of NewRoot make her an invaluable asset to achieve our operational commitments.

What will not change is how we show up and develop youth and the adults who serve them in Chicago and across the nation.

As students and educators in our communities face growing pressure, we invite you, as our valued partner and friend, to join us in making a gift that honors our past and strengthens our future.

Thank you for your commitment that makes this work possible.

DONATE

In Service,

The NewRoot Board of Directors

"This organization has been a part of my journey for many years, and I’m honored and proud to have led it during such a pivotal time. As I step down as CEO, my commitment to NewRoot remains steadfast. I look forward to supporting Angela, Kara, and the entire team during this transition, ensuring that we continue to deepen our impact in schools and communities.

NewRoot will always have a special place in my heart, and I am confident that the best is yet to come!"

-Jacquelyn Lemon

"As a former board member, Gala committee member, and volunteer, I am honored to support NewRoot during this transition period. I believe deeply in the team and the work of the organization and I have seen the impact on educators and students. I am excited to work with and learn from the team and to leverage my skills, knowledge, and strategic perspective to advance NewRoot's mission."