Why Yale Wasn't Ready for Me

Despite my years of experience, a body of work rooted in community, rigor, and excellence, Yale chose not to see me. But this story isn’t about rejection—it’s about resilience.

When I boldly proclaimed my intention to return to school and announced the closing of JAG during my curtain speech at the final JAG performance—Sondheimia by Larry Owens—most responses echoed similar sentiments: "You can teach there," "Don't waste your money on graduate school," "You've been in the business for such a long time, you don't need to go back to school," and, "You’re so brilliant—any institution would be lucky to have you. The work you've done in Vermont has been tremendous; you can go anywhere and do this work on a grander stage."