Speaking Engagements
BLAC specializes in bringing historical insights into contemporary discussions on inclusivity. Through speaking engagements, the aim is to cultivate environments where legacies, historical narratives, and diverse perspectives merge, fostering truly inclusive educational spaces. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and integrating a multitude of viewpoints to enhance inclusivity in education.
Inspirational Talks
Our speakers, drawn from a rich variety of backgrounds, share powerful stories and insights that challenge and inspire.
Interactive Workshops
Dive into hands-on sessions designed to build empathy, understanding, and practical skills for fostering inclusivity.
Panel Discussions
Engage with experts discussing pressing topics, from historical awareness to current social justice issues.
Juneteenth Celebration
JUNE 2025​
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BLAC was honored to attend the Juneteenth Community Celebration hosted by Eton School and The Little School at Crossroads Park in Bellevue. This vibrant event brought together families, local vendors, artists, and educators to honor Juneteenth—a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, marking the day on June 19, 1865, when news of freedom finally reached the last enslaved people in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Cleveland Council of Independent Schools Webinar
May 2025​
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BLAC partnered with the Cleveland Council of Independent Schools to lead a dynamic workshop on building equitable, enduring relationships with alumni—centering strategies that uplift and engage alumni of color through intentional outreach, inclusive programming, and community-driven leadership. Member schools left with actionable tools to strengthen alumni engagement and deepen multigenerational connections rooted in belonging and equity.
Building Our Network of Diversity (The BOND Academy)
April 2025​
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Proud and honored to be presenting on Bridging Legacies Across Campuses (BLAC) LLC at the BOND Academy. Today, there will be a Black or Latino Male leading or co-leading every session. Why, because across the country, they will rarely be featured in many of the classrooms as they leave this space! Proud to be here at Bowie State University of Bowie, Maryland!
Mindful School Marketing Podcast Appearance
April 2025​
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As the Founder and Creator of BLAC, Jonathan Lee joined the Mindful School Marketing Podcast, where he continues to share his valuable insights and experiences. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Jonathan—coach, educator, mentor, and former independent school student & administrator—shares his lived experience and offers a deeply insightful look at what true belonging means for students of color in independent schools.
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Jonathan doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, and his honesty is greatly appreciated as he reflects on the past, challenges the present, and inspires hope for the future. From admissions to alumni engagement, internal marketing to data collection—he brings a holistic lens to building equitable, inclusive school communities.
National Association of Independent School (NAIS) Straight A's Podcast
December 2024​
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Huge shoutout to the gentlemen of the Straight A’s Podcast: Arthur (Art) Hall M.Ed., Amani Reed, Abe Wehmiller and Andre' Withers hosted by the National Association of Independent Schools POCC!!!
It was amazing and affirming to have the opportunity to speak about my journey as an inpendent school graduate of Episcopal High School and my work as Director of Equity and Belonging at the Hamlin Robinson School! Thank you for the opportunity to also talk about my work and passion with Bridging Legacies Across Campuses (BLAC) LLC as well!
BLAC presents at the NWAIS Fall Educators Conference at Charles Wright Academy
October 2023
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BLAC presented at the Northwest Association of Independent Schools- Fall Educators Conference held on the campus of the Charles Wright School. The conversation was filled with passion and purpose as educators gathered to learn about the community of BIPOC graduates that BLAC is building.
BLAC guest speaks at University of Puget Sound Masters of Education Class
July 2023
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What an honor to speak with education students and faculty University of Puget Sound about the work that BLAC is doing.
BLAC Partners with the Eton School in Celebration of Juneteenth!
June 2023
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This year Eton School is honored to host a Juneteenth Community Celebration designed to center, celebrate, and support Black voices and businesses. BLAC was attendance to share about the work being done!
BLAC Featured on Positive Philter
June 2023
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In this episode, I am joined by inspirational educator, Jonathan Lee. We discuss his experience going to a PWI Private School in high school, how that experience shaped his career, and how he wants to help other students of color share their stories through "Bridging Legacies Across Campuses" platform.
Shout Outs and Plugs
BLAC Participates in Odessa Brown Children's Clinic (OBCC) Community Conversation
April 2023
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BLAC participated in Connecting the Dots: Restoring Transformative Academic and Community Partnerships. Led by Dr. Max Hunter of OBCC, and partnering with Dr. Emile Pitre, author of "Revolution to Evolution," discussion on strengthening community efforts to promote pathways into healthcare careers.
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BLAC Featured on Humans of SAAS
June 2022
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In this episode, Director of Admissions Jonathan Lee shares the work he is doing inside and outside SAAS.
He discusses his non-profit, Building Black Excellence for African American Youth, and his podcast, "Our Faces, Our Voices," which both aim to unite and empower students of color around the country. Jonathan talks about his four fundamental questions, including, “When did you discover you were diverse?” Throughout this episode Jonathan offers plenty of wisdom, touching on the importance of having a “tentative plan” for life.
BLAC Featured on #MAXOUTTIME
January 2022
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#MaxOutTime #EducationReboot: Seattle Academy Director of Admissions and Bridging Legacies Across Campuses (#BLAC) Founder Jonathan Lee discusses how the pandemic has exacerbated the independent school admissions process. A native of Alexandria, Virginia, and graduate of Episcopal High School, Jonathan’s LLC aims to make independent schools like Episcopal and Seattle Academy more diverse through networking and consulting across the country.
BLAC guest speaks in SAAS Entrepreneurship Leadership Classes
BLAC steps in as a guest speaker for the Millbrook School's MLK Celebration!
BLAC hosts Alumni Panel to explore Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy at MLK Day Symposium
Five Black and African American alumni spanning 20 years of EHS graduates joined the School’s fifth annual MLK Day Symposium to lead a discussion with students and other alumni about the legacy and influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.