Rachel Herlein Reviews “Mattering” for the Association for Academic Leaders

6/1/2026

In a recent book review for the Association for Academic Leaders, Associate Head of School Rachel Herlein, Ed.D., reflects on Jennifer Wallace’s Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose and its implications for school communities.

Drawing on conversations and experiences with Laurel’s leadership team, faculty, and staff, Dr. Herlein explores the important distinction between belonging and mattering, and how school communities can ensure that people feel not only connected but also valued, needed, and consequential.

Back