Anita Andrews-Hutchinson Wins 2024 Vistage Impact Award for Transformative Growth

A Vision Realized: Growth and Expansion

Anita Andrews-Hutchinson, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV), has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Vistage Impact Award. This award highlights her exceptional leadership in transforming ITAV into a thriving educational organization. The Impact Award recognizes the remarkable development and achievement of trailblazing leaders. From business growth to leadership development, dedicated leaders reach significant heights within their first years as Vistage members, with lasting impact on their company, peers, and community.

Meeting the Needs of Underserved Communities

Through Anita’s visionary leadership, ITAV has expanded its reach, establishing new campuses like ITAV Wabash, ITAV Chicago Ave, ITAV Oak Park, and the ITAV Leadership Academy campuses at River City and Bronzeville. These new sites are a testament to the commitment to providing quality education in underserved areas. “Each new campus is a step closer to our goal of making education accessible to all,” shares Anita.

Diversifying Revenue for Long-term Impact

Anita’s leadership extends beyond physical expansion. She successfully introduced new revenue streams like SpaceRentals and the Village Wellness Center, reinforcing ITAV’s financial stability. “Diversifying our revenue was crucial for sustaining our impact,” she explains. These ventures broaden ITAV’s capacity to support families and children in need, ensuring long-term growth.

Navigating Challenges and Leadership Strategies

The rapid expansion of ITAV did not come without challenges. “Integrating new campuses while maintaining our high educational standards was a significant test,” says Anita. However, it also provided an opportunity to refine operational strategies and strengthen community partnerships.

Collaborating with Local Institutions

Key to ITAV’s success was its partnerships with local institutions like Chicago State University and City Colleges of Chicago. These collaborations ensured a smooth transition for staff and students while minimizing disruptions. “Adaptability and collaboration are essential,” Anita notes, emphasizing her proactive approach to problem-solving.

Key Lessons from Anita’s Leadership Journey

Anita’s leadership is rooted in a clear vision that aligns every decision with ITAV’s mission. “Leading with a clear vision ensures that every decision and action supports our goals,” she states. She emphasizes the importance of empowering others within the organization to take ownership of their roles. “True leadership involves building a collaborative environment that propels the organization forward.”

Adapting to Challenges

Adaptability has been central to Anita’s success. “The ability to adapt and stay resilient is key to long-term success,” she explains. Embracing unconventional ideas has often led to innovative solutions, driving ITAV’s continued growth.

Influences Shaping Anita’s Leadership

Anita’s commitment to community service and culturally responsive education has profoundly shaped her leadership approach. The Mis-Education of the Negro by Carter G. Woodson deeply influenced my understanding of education’s role in empowering communities,” she shares, reflecting her dedication to promoting social justice through education.

Vistage’s Role in Leadership Development

Anita credits her Vistage coach, Shawn K Woods, for playing an instrumental role in refining her leadership skills. “Shawn’s guidance has helped me hone my approach, ensuring that ITAV’s values are always at the forefront of our growth strategy,” Anita notes.

The Future Vision of ITAV: Youth and Communities

Looking ahead, ITAV aims to serve 5,000 youth annually and create a scalable model that can be replicated in underserved communities nationwide. Anita is committed to strategic growth, focusing on expanding ITAV’s impact and furthering partnerships with local organizations.

Strategic Growth and Community Partnerships

Although ITAV currently has no plans for a transaction, Anita is focused on building stronger community partnerships to drive sustainable growth. Her leadership ensures that ITAV continues to evolve in response to the needs of the communities it serves.

Daily Practices of a Visionary Leader

Anita’s daily productivity routine includes prayer or meditation, gratitude reflection, and setting intentions. “These practices help me focus on what truly matters and plan strategically,” she says, demonstrating her commitment to staying grounded and goal-oriented.

The “Big Black Bow” Philosophy of Excellence

Anita’s “Big Black Bow” philosophy—doing everything to the best of her ability and celebrating achievements—serves as a constant reminder of her commitment to excellence. This approach has contributed significantly to ITAV’s success.

A Leadership Legacy for the Future

Anita Andrews-Hutchinson’s story is one of visionary leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Her transformative impact on ITAV Family of Schools and the broader community has been instrumental in driving positive change in education. As we celebrate Anita’s remarkable achievements and her receipt of the 2024 Vistage Impact Award, we look forward to the continued growth and success of ITAV.

FAQs

• What is the Vistage Impact Award?
  The Vistage Impact Award recognizes leaders who have achieved remarkable development and growth as Vistage members. It honors their contribution to their company, peers, and community.
• How has Anita Andrews-Hutchinson transformed ITAV?
  Anita expanded ITAV’s campuses, diversified revenue streams, and fostered community partnerships, ensuring high-quality education in underserved areas.
• What challenges did ITAV face during its expansion?
  ITAV faced the challenge of integrating new campuses while maintaining high educational standards. Anita’s leadership helped navigate these challenges through strategic collaborations.
• What is the role of a Vistage coach in leadership development?
  A Vistage coach provides personalized guidance to leaders, helping them refine their leadership approach and align their actions with company values.
• What are ITAV’s future plans for expansion?
  ITAV aims to serve 5,000 youth annually and create a scalable model that can be replicated in underserved communities across the country.