The Multicultural Leadership Program (MCLP) is starting its second decade and, as it enters this new era, it does so with new leadership. This summer, Julie Emig, MCLP Class of 2018, was named the organization’s newest executive director.
Emig comes to MCLP from the education field with a masters degree in teaching from Columbia University and a doctorate in language, literacy and cultural studies from Boston University. Her devotion to education is evident as she has held teaching positions at Bard College, University of Illinois Chicago and Illinois State University in addition to working with and supporting public school districts in literacy education, culturally responsive instruction and organizational leadership.
In graduating from MCLP, Emig has discovered the value of servant leadership which she will endeavor to further implement during her time here. She also credits the program with helping her discover a new path for her future. “Before MCLP I thought I had a single career trajectory. I learned that I could exercise my skills in many different venues – such as leading a non-profit!”
MCLP also encouraged Emig to seek public office which has resulted in her swearing in last spring as one of Bloomington’s newest city council members. “I had considered running for office before but that desire truly crystallized because of MCLP. I had the opportunity to interact with other community leaders and realized the impact an individual can have in local government. I also learned to be more courageous.”
Emig foresees a promising future for MCLP. She attributes a supportive board, invested alumni, and a network of support systems established by outgoing Executive Director Linda Bollivar as ingredients for the success of the organization. She envisions updating curriculum, continuing to diversify participants and projects, and creating more opportunities to engage alumni.
Emig and her wife Mary are parents to daughter Charlotte. They reside in Bloomington, IL.