The Equity Arc 2025 Annual Convening brought together students, alumni, parents, faculty, and supporters for an inspiring weekend of connection, celebration, and forward-looking strategy. Among the standout moments was a heartfelt parent forum and the powerful presence of alumni families who continue to shape the Equity Arc community.
One of the weekend’s most heartfelt moments came during the parent forum—co-led by Lorie Estanislao, a proud CMPI alumni parent and active member of the CMPI Parent Committee. We sat down with Lorie afterward to hear her reflections on the power of parent voices, how far the community has come, and what keeps her coming back year after year.
“We Wanted to Create a Space Where Families Could Ask Anything”
Lorie co-led the weekend’s opening parent forum alongside fellow alumni parents Wren Williams and Denise Allen. The session offered a safe, welcoming space for the various Pathways Network families to ask questions, express concerns, and receive guidance on a range of topics—from navigating college applications and managing financial aid, to choosing music programs and handling injuries.
“This program supports so many talented students, and as parents, we’ve lived through the highs and lows,” Lorie shared. “Sharing what we’ve learned—what we wish we knew—helps other families feel less alone.”
She emphasized that support for parents goes beyond logistics. It’s about emotional connection, shared wisdom, and collective advocacy.
“These young musicians are on a demanding path. Parents need a community just as much as the students do.”
From Cincinnati to Chicago: A Visible Evolution
Reflecting on the growth of parent involvement over the years, Lorie recalled the momentum that began two years ago at the annual convening in Cincinnati, when the groundwork was laid for broader parent engagement. Since then, Equity Arc has taken meaningful steps to include parents as contributors and collaborators, not just attendees.
“To see how Equity Arc has built on that work and followed through says so much about the organization,” she said. “There’s a clear commitment to building, supporting, and informing parents—creating space for us to be part of the journey, not just observers.”
Stories That Prepare and Inspire
One of the most moving moments for Lorie was hearing from the alumni—from college freshmen to seasoned professionals—who bravely shared both their triumphs and challenges.
“What stood out to me was their honesty,” Lorie said. “They didn’t just share successes—they talked about difficult and uncomfortable experiences so that others would be better prepared. That kind of storytelling has real impact.”
Pathways Programs: A Trusted Roadmap
The convening also reinforced the importance of Pathways Programs, which many parents and students rely on as a structured, transparent guide to navigating music education and career development. From college applications to conservatory auditions, the Pathways roadmap continues to serve as a valuable tool for families charting their course.
A Personal Commitment to the Future
As an alumni parent, Lorie remains deeply involved in CMPI and Equity Arc—not just for her own child, but for future generations.
“What keeps me going is not only my son—it’s my grandchildren, and those who will follow,” she said. “The connections we’ve made, the friendships we’ve built—this experience is the foundation for something bigger. This convening felt like a true catalyst for ongoing collaboration, support, and impact.
Looking Ahead
From student performances and alumni panels to strategic updates and family forums, the Equity Arc Annual Convening 2025 was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when families, students, and educators come together in shared purpose. The music was unforgettable, the energy was high, and the sense of community has never been stronger.
As Equity Arc continues to grow, the voices of parents like Lorie Estanislao will remain central to the mission: empowering families, elevating talent, and ensuring that no one walks the journey alone.
Images
Denise and Lorie, Photo Credit: Jay Towns Photography