SummaryIn this special episode of Next Man Up, host Kareem Thomas sits down with two groundbreaking superintendents, Misty Herr and Theresa Plasencia, to explore their leadership journeys in education. As women of color in top positions, they share their experiences navigating challenges, advocating for diversity, and fostering inclusive leadership.The discussion highlights the importance of representation, the political realities of education leadership, and the ongoing efforts to recruit and retain men of color in the field. They also emphasize the role of community support, the power of personal experience in shaping leadership, and the collective responsibility to empower future education leaders.Key Takeaways:Representation in leadership transforms education.Quiet individuals can make powerful, insightful leaders.Political challenges are a reality in educational leadership.Strong community support drives student and school success.Recruiting diverse leaders requires intentionality and action.Empowering future leaders is a shared responsibility.Every student, regardless of background, deserves access to quality education.Trust-building within the community is essential for progress.Leadership means making tough but necessary decisions.Quote Worthy:“I see myself in their eyes.”“Don’t let anyone dim your fire.”“We need you in these spaces.”About Misty HerMisty Her was born in a POW camp in Laos during the Vietnam War and fled with her family to a Thai refugee camp before resettling in the U.S. in 1980. Growing up in Fresno, California, she developed a passion for education that led her to earn a BA in Liberal Studies and a master’s in Administration and Supervision from Fresno State University. She began her career as an elementary teacher and made history as the first Hmong Vice Principal and later the first Hmong Woman Principal in the U.S. Rising through leadership, she became Fresno Unified School District’s Instructional Superintendent in 2011, Deputy Superintendent in 2021, and Interim Superintendent in 2024. Misty is a dedicated mentor and advocate for educational equity. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2019 California Woman of the Year for Outstanding Service in Education and the 2022 Marjaree Mason Top Ten Woman Award. Passionate about the transformative power of education, she remains devoted to empowering students, investing in their success, and shaping the future of learning.About Theresa PlascenciaTheresa Plascencia has dedicated her career to social activism and educational equity, inspired by her grandfather’s belief in giving back to society. She earned a BA in from DePaul University, a Master’s in Education Leadership from Loyola University, and is a doctorate candidate at National-Louis University. With a career spanning Chicago Public Schools—overseeing 29 schools—and Waukegan Public Schools, where she became Superintendent in 2016, Plascencia has been a leader in shaping student success. Her contributions to education have been recognized with an Equity Award from ALAS, and she serves on its Advisory Policy Committee as well as the National Advisory Committee for the Men of Color Education in Leadership. About the PodcastNext Man Up amplifies the voices and experiences of men of color in educational leadership. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, the podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments that shape leaders breaking barriers and driving systemic change in education. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Next Man Up inspires listeners to embrace their unique power, build community, and foster mentorship. Whether you’re a current leader, aspiring changemaker, or ally, this podcast will empower you to step up and make an impact. The next man up could be you!Learn MoreTo learn more about the Next Man Up podcast or to be a guest, visit mcelleaders.org/podcast or follow us on social media at @mcelleaders.

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