Part of what makes the Greenhouse community so special is the crossing paths and webs of relationships that lead to great things. Often, there are layers upon layers of actions, connections, and tangible results that spread through individuals, families, and whole communities. This story exemplifies the Greenhouse ripple effect.
This ripple begins with the DeVa Group, a network within Greenhouse of friends and alumni from Denison University and the University of Virginia. Notable members include Dave Kirkpatrick, Todd Smith, and Stockton Croft, who were instrumental in founding Greenhouse Georgia. Beyond establishing our Georgia presence, these men have been outstanding leaders and mentors for future changemakers in the Greenhouse community.
Amadou Bah, a visionary Greenhouse Young Leader, has greatly benefited from the DeVa Group’s mentorship, particularly from Stockton Croft. Recognizing Stockton’s exceptional mentoring abilities, Amadou introduced him to Dexter Ward, his childhood friend. Although Dexter wasn’t a Greenhouse Scholar, Amadou knew his potential to become a real changemaker under Stockton’s guidance. Dexter, now a successful investment banker, attributes much of his success to the Greenhouse community.
When Amadou graduated from Stanford University, Greenhouse staff member Scott Burridge introduced him to Greenhouse supporter and North Point Advisors founder Matt Kelley. From there, Amadou was hired at North Point and became the first person of color to work at the prestigious San Francisco-based investment banking firm. Since Amadou’s successful career start at North Point, they have hired a second Greenhouse alum—Saf Moqeet—who is also thriving there.
Now an official member of the DeVa Group, Amadou sponsors current Greenhouse Scholar Abdoul Diallo, passing down the knowledge he’s gained and wisdom he’s received from his mentors. With years of mentorship and other support from Greenhouse, Amadou has gone on to create his own community change with the founding of the Bah Foundation, a non-profit in the greater Atlanta area. Greenhouse has provided seed capital for the Bah Foundation and its important work in Georgia, which has included feeding 10,000 homeless people and launching “Project Hair,” dedicated to providing haircuts and hairstyles for boys and girls, aimed at boosting self-confidence and addressing mental health issues related to personal appearance. The Foundation also aspires to go global and build water wells, schools, and community centers in Guinea.
The contributions and tangible impact we are creating are sustaining, spreading, and dynamic. This is a great example of our ongoing ripple effect, and most certainly to be continued!