Insight Pt. 2: 2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals, Cobbs Creek Foundation

On this episode of Insight, we’re celebrating leadership in education and the extraordinary impact school principals have on students, families, and entire communities. The School District of Philadelphia and the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation recently honored seven outstanding school leaders with the 2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals. Joining us are two of this year’s award recipients — Dr. Michelle Burns and Sakia Beard Brinkley — to discuss leadership, service, and creating school communities where students can thrive.Dr. Burns shares how A. Philip Randolph Career and Technical High School is preparing students for careers, college, and future success, while Sakia Beard Brinkley talks about building a supportive culture for students and families at Richard R. Wright School. Together, they reflect on the challenges facing students today, the importance of public education, and the moments that remind them why this work matters so deeply. For more information:• School District of Philadelphia• Lindback Foundation Awards Information Follow on social media:• School District of Philadelphia Instagram• School District of Philadelphia Facebook• School District of Philadelphia X/Twitter  Cobbs Creek Foundation & NRG Partnership We also talk about transformation, opportunity, and the power of partnership in our city. A major investment is helping reimagine one of Philadelphia’s most historic spaces—Cobbs Creek—into a hub for education, wellness, and community connection. Joining us are Erin Cook, Senior Vice President of the Cobbs Creek Foundation, and Keri Murschell, Director of Community and Sponsorship Marketing at NRG to discuss a powerful collaboration between the Cobbs Creek Foundation, NRG Energy, and Vivint that’s bringing new energy—literally and figuratively—to West Philadelphia. The conversation explores the vision behind the Cobbs Creek revitalization project, including expanded opportunities for youth programming, workforce development, education, and community engagement.We also learn more about the new Vivint + NRG Hub, which will serve as a central gathering space for students and neighborhood residents. Erin and Keri discuss why partnerships like this matter, how corporate and community organizations can work together to create lasting impact, and how Philadelphians can stay connected as the project continues to grow.For more information:• Cobbs Creek Foundation•NRG Social Responsibility• Vivint  • Cobbs Creek Foundation Instagram• Cobbs Creek Foundation Facebook• Vivint Instagram