Sometimes the Detour Becomes the Destination
Like most things in my life, I had it all planned out. I would finish my doctoral degree, apply for full-time jobs, and get hired. Maybe I would become a charter network Executive Director or step back into a state-level leadership role. At this point in my career, I felt both selective and flexible.
Boy, was I wrong.
The job market is rough. This spring, I was a finalist in several highly competitive searches. With that came hours and hours of interview prep, work-sample creation, and rehearsing responses to complex leadership questions. Interviewing is mentally exhausting, especially for this proud, self-proclaimed introvert.
And then, several days later, the email or phone call arrives. It usually begins with kind words about my experience and qualifications and ends with, “Unfortunately, you were not selected for the position.”
As the Yiddish saying goes, “Man plans, and God laughs.” Life is often far more unpredictable than I want it to be. And in the middle of all of this uncertainty, I have found myself reflecting deeply on the next phase of my career.
The truth is, I have always been an entrepreneur. When I was about seven years old, I sold pickle juice and watercolor paintings to my neighbors. In my twenties, I ran a successful after-school theater enrichment business called The Character Players. Today, I operate an Airbnb as a side hustle. There is something invigorating about taking an idea from paper and pen to reality.
Originally, I thought my consulting work would simply be a temporary stop while I finished my degree — a bridge back into a more traditional role. But over time, I realized consulting aligns beautifully with my entrepreneurial spirit. I get to build systems, create meaningful services, and support organizations in impactful ways, all while having the freedom to innovate and grow.
So, I am beyond excited to share that I am going all in with Propel. I have officially rebranded Propel School Quality Consulting to Propel Strategy Partners. The new name better reflects both the broader vision and the focused support I want to provide.
And no, I am not selling pickle juice.
Instead, I am focusing on supporting nonprofit boards and organizations as they navigate seasons of transition. While much of my expertise has been in working with charter school boards, I am excited to expand into the broader nonprofit sector as well. Transitions can take many forms: hiring a new executive leader, implementing a strategic plan, onboarding new board members, or strengthening governance systems during periods of change.
If your board or organization is looking for ongoing coaching, facilitation, or strategic support, I would love to partner with you.
Because sometimes, when one door closes, another opens to something even more aligned with who you were meant to become.
-Dr. Kia Murray
