Joan's "fearless" anniversary inspiration! by Adam Fletcher

Congratulations Joan!!!

adamfletcher1 — 2022-06-28 18:08:11 UTC

Congratulations Joan! As the lawyer for the org, I have to caution you to stay safe when you use your extra vacation days, so here is a recommendation that is both safe and exciting. Stay in a tree house near the ancient remains of a 2,000-year old city, Olympos, on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. There is lots of great backpacking and exploring to be done nearby. Have fun!

9 Years Strong!

karin_rinderknecht — 2022-06-28 23:15:51 UTC

Joan - congratulations and thank you for 9(!!) years with us. I know how much you believe in sustainability and consistency and you've been a tremendous model. When you're ready for a vacation, but don't have the time to travel too far, there's always more to explore in Joshua Tree--from hiking to rock climbing (highly recommend!!!) to exploring the Noah Purafoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum in the town of Joshua Tree (you may be familiar with his work from the Watts towers). You can rough it and camp, Airbnb, or a little of both. It's one of our favorite local family adventures. If you haven't spent time out there, you definitely should and if you have been out there, I would definitely go back :) Congrats again!

Go Joan Go!

2022-06-28 23:30:01 UTC

Congratulations Joan on achieving 9 years. It's hard work. I was just reflecting yesterday on the feeling of being Sisyphus when it comes to trying to undo decades or more like centuries of inequities through our work in education. Hang in there and keep your head up...you have and you will continue to achieve great things with the Partnership. When you do take a break, The Narrows is amazing, and strikes me as the perfect trip for someone who likes a challenge but also likes to really find some space for silence and contemplation. Get the permit and do the overnight hike. It's a chance to be alone but yet not--as you connect with the occasional deer who has also decided to take a path along the river floor. And yes, you can take your family along. Asha is probably old enough (and tall enough). Enjoy! Rachel B.

9 bonus days of vacation?! What could be better than risking your life in Hawaii?

alicegualpa — 2022-06-29 00:57:10 UTC

Joan! In honor of your 9 years as the CEO, I'd like to humbly suggest a backpacking trip on the Kalalau Trail on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Pros: It's only 22 miles round trip so you can knock it out and still have time to for some R&R on the island. The scenery is gorgeous and can only be experienced on foot. Cons: The elevation gain is over 5000'. It's considered one of the most dangerous hikes in America due to steep/narrow/wet ledges and falling rocks. This trip is a lot like your work-- difficult and rewarding. Thanks for sticking with us! <3 Alice

a round of applause

wendollyescobar — 2022-06-29 04:35:58 UTC

9 bonus vacation days?!?! What will you do with all of that time? I have a suggestion:

Nothing says fearless leadership like jumping into the open ocean off the coast of Cancun and swimming with whale sharks! This is by far one of my greatest adventures. It was both exhilarating and humbling to come face to face with these gentle giants of the ocean. To top it off, the waters off the coast of Isla Mujeres (an island off the coast of Cancun) are absolutely beautiful and clear.

Congratulations on 9 years at the Partnership!! I have deeply appreciated the opportunity to get to know you better over the past several months. I learn something new (about myself, about the org, about you...) every time we have the chance to chat. You care deeply and it is personally an honor to work with and for someone who brings the amount of passion and drive to the work that you do. Thank you for your transparency, your candor...thank you for simply being you. Cheers!!!

Lucky 9

2022-06-29 17:27:14 UTC

Joan, Congrats. It's quite an achievement to be grounded in a place for close to a decade. I'm not sure about your vacation style, but I'd like to recommend using at least one of your 9 days to staycation.

One day to staycation? Get yourself a room at a hotel. This could be downtown, beach, mountains... you chose. Pack your bag. You will only need lounge wear and potentially a bathing suit or workout gear, if you are into the activities that require that attire. Say goodbye to your family, get in your car, drive away to your hotel room.

When you arrive, enjoy the silence, the time and space to think, binge watch tv, order room service, sleep. Given this is your 9th year, I will advocate for you to set a goal of sleeping for 9 hours straight.

Enjoy.

Thank you for all you do and the impact you make. -Mo

Congrats on 9 years, Joan!

2022-06-30 00:34:06 UTC

Hi Joan. I think a nine-year anniversary calls for a nice long road trip with the fam. I would suggest you drive up the coast, staying in Pfieffer Big Sur campground. Then head up to SF, where you may want to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, take a ferry to Alcatraz, visit the Exploratorium and eat Dim Sum in the Richmond. Then take the kiddos over the Bay Bridge to the Oakland/Knowland Park Zoo, which is celebrating its centennial. After that, drive about 45 minutes to Fairfield, and visit the Jelly Belly Factory where you will get free samples! On the way back to SF, stop in Berkeley and visit several of its really good bookstores, Like Moe's Books and Pegasus on Shattuck. Treat yourselves to dinner at Chez Panisse and then head back to the City. On the road trip home, stop at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and enjoy some rides. Then head down to Monterey and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. If you have time to visit Hearst Castle, do so! And then head back to LA, tired but full of great memories from visiting some of the most beautiful spots in the world! Enjoy your summer Joan! Best, Cathy

XCARET! by Mexico🔥

icelasantiago — 2022-06-30 21:40:03 UTC

Felicidades! Nine great years! I am so appreciative of your leadership and personally knowing you! I highly recommend a Cancun get-away. You can get an all-inclusive hotel and stay put in one place for 9 days (no judgement!) OR you can make your way out of the resort and enjoy these natural theme parks with the family. Xcaret is a MUST!

Congratulations!

2022-07-01 18:40:12 UTC

Congratulations on 9 years, Joan! Thank you for the heart, leadership, and energy you've put into this organization to help make this a place I'm proud to work for.

I'm not sure how adventurous you're feeling but if you haven't already, consider sky diving! I did it once, in Camarillo, and probably wouldn't do it again but I'm glad I got the experience. If not, I heard the indoor ones are cool too!
-Jasmin

Fearless? Take your kids backpacking

chasestafford — 2022-07-05 16:29:04 UTC

Congratulations Joan, and thank you for leading the way and persevering!

I'd recommend 2 local spots for quick kid-friendly hike-in sites: Cooper Canyon in Angeles National Forest, and Pine City in Joshua Tree.

You deserve the best! Enjoy the Adriatic Sea in magical Croatia

2022-07-05 17:17:03 UTC

Congrats to my favorite boss lady of all time! I know you're a water baby like me, so I think you would really enjoy island hopping in Croatia. There are thousands of islands to choose from, and one I recommend is Korčula (pronounced kor-chu-la). The magical old town is perfect for evening strolls, the water is clear and clean, the seafood is bomb, and there's lots of historical sights to visit, such as Marco Polo's house! A day trip away, of course, is my hometown in Bosnia & Herzegovina: beautiful Mostar with its majestic old bridge and the scenic Neretva river, which you'll enjoy as you sip coffee (or rakija liquor) from a terrace in the old town that dates back to the 16th century. You can't go wrong with a visit to the Balkans! Congrats again and truly thank you for your strong and visionary leadership, and for always supporting and elevating your team. We appreciate you and I'm grateful to be in this work with you! - Julija

9+ Years of Success!

clairebrown3 — 2022-07-08 15:49:07 UTC

Congrats, Joan, on everything you have accomplished and on the guidance you've provided to our Partnership team over the past 9 (and more!) years. Here is a very local adventure that's on the less risky side... Kayaking the canals of Long Beach! Nice views and harmless jellyfish in the water make this super family friendly. It's a more relaxing way to take an adventure!

Congrats, Joan!

michaelramirez1 — 2022-07-08 15:53:23 UTC

Congrats on nine years! I remember meeting you for the first time when the Partnership was coming in to support 20th St. Oh how I wanted to hate you. I have seen over the last 7 years your unbelievable smarts, your willingness to reflect, and your intense leadership so that our schools are transformed. My hatred has turned into admiration and appreciation for your leadership.

For your nine vacation days, I highly recommend visiting the Lower Antelope Valley slot canyons in Arizona. It's eerily beautiful and slightly surreal. Congrats!
--Michael

Celebrate 9+ yrs of Commitment with the oldest tree's in the world!

claudiamartinez19 — 2022-07-08 17:57:15 UTC

Congrats Joan on nine years in leading the team (not counting the years you were a board member). It's quite incredible how fast it all goes, especially when you are committed to its people, purpose and impact. I've seen you through most of that journey and I am proud how far we've come as an organization, although you and I would say, 'there is still work to be done'.

My recommendation would be to spend time in the beautiful Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park. There is something so special to witness these beauties in person. They have been here longer than any living thing on the planet and continue to thrive. In their greatness you'll find nature, quiet, stillness and harmony. I know theses last few months have been a lot with so many changes to the org, and a lot of that work has landed on your shoulders. So I hope you take these 9 days and do whatever fills your heart with happiness, family and adventure.

Claudia Martinez-Fritzges

Felicidades!

abigailcarlosalejo — 2022-07-11 15:51:07 UTC

I remember meeting you for the first time during my final interview for my role at the Partnership. I remember walking away thinking, "She wanted to get to know ME, the person... !?! this is different." She cares. You care!

Congratulations on 9 year Joan! Thank you for your love and commitment to our students, our families, and our communities. I am always deeply inspired to see you fight the good fight for all of us. I am sure it is hard, so thank you for sharing with us your brain and your heart! I admire you and appreciate you.

Sometimes you don't have to go too far to enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Here is a great Oaxacan restaurant I recommend in honor of my roots. http://www.ilovemole.com/

-Abigail

Congrats! Now head to Belize!

genevievedebose — 2022-07-11 19:23:57 UTC

Happy 9 years Joan! Congrats on leading the org for nearly a decade. I know your job isn't an easy one and I hope you take FULL advantage of your extra 9 vacay days. I recently got back from Belize and it was wonderful. I'd suggest visiting any of the cayes for some incredible snorkling or diving if you're certified, Palmento Grove in Hopkins to learn more about Garifuna culture, and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary to try and spot a jaguar in it's natural habitat! Take your whole family with you, just Ama or maybe even go by yourself. Be sure to eat lots of delicious seafood and enjoy the chill, island-like vibes of Central America's Belize. Whatever you do, I hope you get some time to rest. Happy 9 years!

Congrats!!

2022-07-11 20:08:52 UTC

Congrats on 9 years! Thank you for your dedication and leadership. I hope you can take full advantage of these well deserved vacation days. I'm not as outdoorsy as our colleagues here, so I'm going to recommend something on the tamer side. On Fridays and Saturdays, LACMA does free outdoor concerts! So, if you'd like a way to rest and relax after all these adventures, pack a picnic and head to the museum for some family-friendly music and fun :)

-Therese

Congratulations

2022-07-11 22:29:37 UTC

Happy Nine years Joan! You are a dynamic leader.

It is great to work with someone who leads from the heart while staying on course for the students we serve and for each of us as members of the Org. Thank you for all your philanthropic efforts. For always pushing and supporting us to do what is right for the students and families we serve, for being kind hearted, and a leader with an open door policy.

If you are someone who loves adventures and will do anything once try Zip Lining I have done it twice once in Jamaica and in the DR. You will love it! Nychelle