A Casual Conversation with…Evisha Ford
A “Servant Leader” might be one of the best ways to describe this amazingly accomplished, strong and talented woman. When asked what she wanted to be while growing up her response was simple, but telling, “I always just wanted to help. Nothing specific, just being a help to someone.” She has certainly accomplished that in amazing ways. Dr. Evisha Ford has been a member of PWN since joining at the Smart Chicks Luncheon in 2017.
Her journey started in Tinley Park, where her organization is today. After high school she attended Quincy University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with her BA in Social Work. From there it was on to the U of I – Champaign-Urbana for her Master’s in Social Work. Feeling a draw to education, she received her second master’s degree from Governor’s State in Educational Administration and Supervision. In 2011, she earned her Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership and Administration. Her heart led her to Special Ed and from 2004 to 2020, Evisha worked in the school systems from Chicago Public Schools, to Bremen High School, to the college level at Concordia University and finally an Assistant Superintendent for the Posen-Robbins School District. In the midst of everyday life, she still found time to follow her true passion to help the developmentallyand differently abled and started the I Can Dream Center in 2013. This non-profit organization is dedicated to offering innovative services and education to Pre-K through High School. You can learn more about the organization and all they offer at www.icandreamcenter.com.
In the midst of getting her degrees and working she became a mom of 2 boys, which she says she absolutely loves! Currently 8 and 6 years old, the boys keep her busy as family is a true priority for her. One of her favorite things to do is to dress up in character and read in the boys’ classrooms (something her youngest son missed during the Covid shutdown). Knowing Evisha, she will make that lost time up though.
When asked her fire comes from and what inspires her to keep doing what she does, her response was quick, “The realization that we’re making a real impact on families.” She is very open about her faith and that she feels like a seed was planted early on to create this organization. In the early days the investment was personal because she believed in the concept of what she was about to do. “I was scared about taking that leap, but affirmations kept coming and I just knew it was time”, she said.Her personal investment came in the way of not only time but financially, working 4-5 jobs to support it. When they began, they served 75 students – today that number has increased to the level that they’ll be opening a new larger center to provide their services and programs.
The most rewarding part of what she does? “Being able to empower students to write their own story! When our students know they’re included and can do more – that’s what it’s all about. That makes everything worth it.” When asked what the worst part of her career was her response was a bit melancholy, “When I let a Team Member go. Sometimes people just don’t fit or their priority changes and they aren’t successful with us any longer – that is really the worst thing.” It was evident to this writer that not only is her heart with the population she serves, but with those she leads as well. Success for all is important to her.
Her advice to other women entrepreneurs might bring a smile to your face. “Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Put yourself in new situations. Meet new people. Get out of your bubble. Understand that you don’t need a fancy degree but a willingness to keep going when things aren’t easy. Just follow your faith and your drive.” When asked about her legacy and how she’d like to be remembered she stated emphatically, “That I pushed the limits. I prayed for a vision then I pushed towards that vision. I’d like to be known as a “hope viewer”. When you see this strong, professional, refined, and accomplished woman would you think Body Builder? When asked what most people don’t know about you, that is what she responded! She participated in her first competition in June and took second place! Well done Dr. Ford, well done!
Her words of wisdom to PWN members, “Take advantage of getting to know people. Network, and learn as much as you can through what is offered such as the Lunch and Learns. Don’t’ waste the opportunities that you’re given through PWN. “