Saying Goodbye

In 2017, I took what might have been the biggest risk of my professional life.  I left a job and colleagues that I dearly loved to come work at ACPE.  It was a time of great transition for ACPE, and I was excited about what I could bring to the role of supporting our educators and programs.  We embarked on a two-year campaign to visit all our accredited CPE centers, to meet with stakeholders, answer questions about the changes, and build connections with the more centralized ACPE infrastructure. 

What a gift this time was!  I was able to meet with many of you in your offices, learn about your challenges and celebrations, and ease anxieties by sharing concrete and practical information about the new form of governance and ways of connecting.  From many of you I heard gratitude; that this was the first time a colleague had come to visit you and learn more about your work.  From others I heard grief, or worry, or excitement.  This was deeply satisfying work, even as a life on the road presented a different and challenging rhythm.

In 2020, as that role came to an end, I transitioned into a new role as Director of Communities of Practice.  I had been working with the Professional Well-Being Committee for some time and saw an opportunity to strengthen the infrastructure and support for our vital Communities of Practice, as well as provide some programmatic support for the work of our CoPs.  This, too, has been satisfying work, if different.  I have grown more convinced that the nature and quality of our collegial relationships is vital to our professional thriving.  Because of the nature of our training and work, our stories, our lives are deeply connected with one another.  COVID has challenged this in so many ways, but not surprisingly, our colleagues are continuing to demonstrate the creativity and commitment that is a hallmark of ACPE.

I have made the decision to leave my role on staff at ACPE.  It is largely a personal decision; my spouse recently landed his dream job and is working long hours in a fast-paced environment.  After years of his unwavering support of my vocation, it is his turn to pursue his dreams.  In addition to more time at home with my family, I will also (finally!) finish my PhD that has been languishing.

I still believe deeply in the work and mission of ACPE, and in those of you who I’m privileged to consider colleagues and friends.  I look forward to some time away for a while and discerning how best to reengage with ACPE as a member and Certified Educator. 

Thank you for sharing the road with me these past four and a half years.  I look forward to what comes next.

Katherine Higgins is the Director of Communities of Practice. She may be contacted at katherine.higgins@acpe.edu