Where were you born and raised?
Born in Nashville, TN. Raised in Dayton, Ohio.
What is your occupation?
Senior Industrial Engineer at Honeywell.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Taking road trips with my whole family (cousins, uncles, grandparents, etc.) down to Alabama for our annual family reunion in the summer.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
BHM is a time to highlight and celebrate the magic that is our history, culture, and community! Although it should be shared and celebrated throughout the year, it's kind of like our birthday, a time where it's OURS alone.
What do you believe is the most important issue currently facing the Black community?
Equal access to great and affordable education systems, jobs, and healthcare.
When did you realize you were Black in America and what has that meant for your life?
I can't recall an age but I've always known I was Black. It's something my parents made sure we felt proud about. I grew up in a predominantly Black community so pride and history of my ancestors was freely talked about in school and community. It wasn't until I reached my freshman year of college at a PWI (predominantly white institution) that I realized the things I was told growing up: "you have to do more," and "be 150% better," etc. came to fruition. It was at that time that I realized people who don't look like me, many times, expect less from me just because of the color of my skin.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration to push for change?
My ancestors and relatives who lost or risked their lives so that I can freely...fill in the blank... today that they never ever dreamed they that they could!
How have you supported or contributed to the local Black community?
I support and contribute via my memberships in the Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Black Achievers Society of Greater Kansas City, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Board of BBBS-KC, math tutor, and mentor to local young women. As well I regularly patronize KC area Black owned businesses
