By Erin Vincent, VP Education & Talent, Greater Spokane Inc.
Tables are utilitarian objects—flat surfaces with four legs—so common we might overlook their significance. Yet, for such a simple piece of furniture, tables often hold an outsized role in the moments that matter most. They’re where we gather to share meals, ideas, laughter, and sometimes hard conversations. They’re where relationships are formed and strengthened.
This year GSI launched IN Schools, a campaign designed to build relationships and support schools through proactive storytelling and strategic communications. The campaign is in collaboration with regional school districts and businesses who support the value of education in our region and the impact it has on our kids and our economy.
Given that IN Schools is all about bringing community closer to K–12 education, it’s no surprise that a table is at the center of this next step for the campaign. Erin Vincent, GSI’s Vice President of Education and Talent, explains: “We wanted to give the business community a place for questions, answers, relationship-building, and dialogue with K–12 leaders. We’ve scheduled five dinners across Spokane County, and we’re working to make each of those tables unique and meaningful spaces.”
These dinners are more than just good food. They are opportunities to connect across sectors, break down silos, and build shared understanding around issues that impact our community such as workforce development, education policy, and building future-ready skilled employees that local businesses need. Whether you’re an educator, a business leader, or a parent, you have a voice in this conversation—and a seat at the table.
The first IN Schools dinner took place on April 3 with Superintendents Adam Swinyard and Brian Talbott, marking the official launch of this new phase in the initiative. The evening was filled with open dialogue, new connections, and a shared sense of purpose.
There are still a few spots available for the upcoming dinners in April, May, and June. If you’re interested in being part of the conversation and helping shape the future of education in our region, we’d love you to join us.
Register below to reserve your seat at the table:
- John Parker, Superintendent of Central Valley School District
- Ken Russell, Superintendent of Riverside School District
- Joe Beckford, Superintendent of Orchard Prairie School District
- Kim Headrick, Superintendent of Medical Lake School District
- Ben Ferney, Superintendent of Cheney School District
- Kyle Rydell, Superintendent of West Valley School District
- Randy Russell, Superintendent of Freeman School District
