Worcester's Stories of Adversity and Healing (WOOSAH) is WEC's official Equity Summit, bringing together educators, youth workers, advocates, and community leaders who are committed to creating learning environments where all students feel seen, supported, and able to thrive.

Grounded in the theme “Putting ourselves in the shoes of our students,” this summit invites attendees to deepen their understanding of how trauma, adversity, and out-of-school experiences shape learning, behavior, and educational outcomes. Through storytelling, research-informed discussions, and shared reflection, attendees will explore what it truly means to lead with empathy and to center students’ lived experiences in education.

Participants will engage with powerful local stories of adversity and healing, learn from practitioners and thought leaders in trauma-informed education, and examine how policies and systems can either hinder or support student success. The summit will emphasize healing-centered, culturally responsive approaches that move beyond awareness and toward meaningful change.

Keynote Speaker: Ron Waddell, Legendary Legacies

WOOSAH will feature a keynote address by Ron Waddell, founder of Legendary Legacies, whose work centers on mentoring, leadership development, and empowering young people to rise beyond adversity. Drawing from lived experience and years of community-based leadership, Ron brings a powerful, authentic perspective on resilience, identity, and the role adults play in shaping safe, affirming spaces for youth.

His keynote will challenge participants to reflect deeply on how systems, relationships, and policies impact young people—while inspiring attendees to lead with compassion, accountability, and purpose in their work with students and communities.

Most importantly, WOOSAH is designed to turn learning into action. Attendees will leave with a stronger foundation in trauma-informed practice and a clearer understanding of how to advocate for updated policies and legislation that prioritize student well-being—locally and statewide.

This is more than a convening. It is a call to listen, reflect, and act—together—on behalf of Worcester’s students.