Recognizing the educators who are turning vision into reality and creating legacies that stretch far beyond the school walls. MINDSET. MISSION. MILESTONES.
From the very beginning, Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders sparked something in me. As someone who values growth, I was truly inspired by the incredible leaders who agreed to be part of this issue. Their commitment to education, their passion for uplifting others, and their dedication to building strong communities are exactly what the next generation of leadership needs.
As a young adult, I’m constantly seeking ways to grow not just as an entrepreneur, but as a leader. I believe that’s what both my generation and the ones coming after us truly need: examples of bold, purpose-driven leadership I want to be everything God has called me to be, and hearing each person’s story, wisdom, and encouragement throughout this issue has deeply motivated me.
Here are a few standout covers from previous editions of the Leadership Magazine, each capturing a moment in our ongoing journey of spotlighting community, purpose, and leadership
Nyomi Knighton-Peake | A Letter from the Editor
INSIDE THE ISSUE
About the Founder Dr. Patricia G. Sims
Leading with Purpose: Dr. Sims
Leading with Vision: Christopher Blanding
Leading with Direction, Development, and Dreams: Sonya Merritt
Leading with Heart and Higher Standards: Rachel Ballard Shaping the Future: Leaders for Tomorrow
Rising Star: J’Niya Farmer
From Overlooked to Outstanding: Andrew Jackson
Trusting the Timing: Kee Bass
Legacy Lineage: The Bass Kids
The Vision Behind the Camera: Neville Simpson
A B O U T T H E
FOUNDER
MINISTRY
Pamela leads with purpose, using her faith as the foundation to inspire and serve others beyond the traditional walls of ministry
MARRIAGE MARKETPLACE
She views marriage and motherhood as sacred assignments that ground her leadership, proving that strong families build lasting legacies
Pamela sees the marketplace as an extension of her ministry, where faith, excellence, and service come together to create lasting impact.
HONORING THE EDUCATORS WHO SHAPE US
As we celebrate the incredible educators featured in this edition, I’d be remiss not to take a moment to honor one of the teachers who shaped me, Ms. Benetta Eutsey, my middle school English teacher.
When my family moved back to Alabama from Texas, I was navigating a new school, new friendships, and a lot of change Ms. Eutsey was firm; she didn’t play about her expectations, but she also made it clear that she cared. She pushed us to do our best and believed in who we were becoming, even when we didn’t see it yet
Pamela Bass
I was so proud to recently learn that Ms. Eutsey, once my 7th grade English teacher, is now the Assistant Principal at Wetumpka High School. What a full-circle moment to see the elevation of someone who made such an impact on a younger Pam
Thank you, Ms Eutsey Your presence, guidance, and example are part of the reason I lead with heart and purpose today.
“The influence of a good educator stretches far beyond the classroom — it shapes destinies, inspires dreams, and builds the leaders of tomorrow.”
Pamela Jackson Bass Publisher & Visionary | Leadership Magazine
Capturedby:LorealPride
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
A Conversation with Dr. Patricia G. Sims
Q: Dr. Sims, Drake State has had some exciting moments recently the opening of the new Leidos Advanced Training Complex and the upcoming Jazz in the Garden event. What do these milestones mean to you, and to Drake State, as you reflect on what’s been accomplished during your tenure?
A: The opening of the Leidos Advanced Training Complex marks a transformative milestone in bridging education, industry, and community for Huntsville/Madison County
The Complex is a strategic investment in the future workforce. It demonstrates Drake State’s commitment to skilled training to support industries like aerospace and advanced manufacturing Having Leidos come alongside us and funding scholarships, apprenticeships, allows us to address critical gaps in high-demand fields The collaboration between Drake State and Leidos exemplifies how public-private partnerships can revitalize education. Such synergy elevates Drake State, and it strengthens our regional economies by preparing students for high paying technical roles
I am thrilled about our upcoming 4 Annual Jazz in the Garden event, on Friday, June 27th. It will be an unforgettable evening of entertainment. This event has become a beloved summer tradition in our city th because it transforms Drake State’s campus into a
vibrant hub of live music, culinary delights, and familyfriendly fun. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, raising critical funds for student scholarships and programs through the Drake State Foundation Our headliner this year is AJ Ghent and His Singing Guitar AJ is an electrifying performer offering a fusion of blues, rock, and soul. We will also have the soulful vocals of local artist Nina Marie, and the dynamic saxophonist Ryon Shultz. It promises to be a fun-filled evening.
Q: Looking back over your presidency since 2018, what accomplishments at Drake State are you most proud of? Which achievements do you feel have most significantly advanced the college’s mission?
A: The past years have been filled with so many points of pride that it’s difficult for me to point to one. In addition to our new training complex, I’m extremely proud to host our Huntsville Tech Chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) on our campus. We will launch our program with our first cohort in August I will also share that I am proud of the incredible team with which I am blessed to work with each day and the dedication they continue to demonstrate to the students we serve. Our collective body of work, is all aimed at advancing our mission of providing quality, affordable education and training for our community, has resulted in us having a deeper
relationship with our community I am proud to lead Huntsville’s community college and look forward to continuing to growth along with the community
Q: Your journey to leadership is inspiring. You have over 28 years in education, and you’re a woman leading in a space that hasn’t always seen women at the top. Can you share some challenges you’ve faced as a woman in higher education leadership, and how you’ve overcome them?
A: I have had a wonderful career in education and had the privilege to work with and learn from some talented leaders in our community.
Women in higher education administration face some unique challenges, the first being our underrepresentation Women hold approximately 33% of the college presidencies and just 5% of these are women of color. The average tenure for female presidents is about 2.5 years. With over six years in this position, I’m an OG in my world Over the years I have experienced the challenge of others thinking that my presence is symbolic and having my ideas and contributions undervalued. Despite the challenges, I feel so blessed to live in the community where there is no shortage of women who are moving the needle across various professions Very successful women who are willing to share their experiences and more importantly offer support, provide encouragement and create concrete opportunities for others.
I work to pay it forward for the generation of female leaders coming along My goal is to affirm aspiring leaders and the transformative potential of their leadership To create an environment that provides them with opportunities and an environment where their contributions are valued.
Q: As you look to the future, what is your vision for Drake State? Where do you see the college headed in the next few years under your continued leadership?
A: I am so proud of the College and my team. I am especially proud of the opportunities we provide for our students Opportunities to explore research and to work for some of the leading companies in our city We recently added 300 well-trained, skilled individuals to our regional labor pool with our 2025 commencement ceremony. My vision for Drake State is for it to continue to grow with the city, and that we can continue our efforts to be responsive and flexible in meeting the needs of industry
We have challenges as we look to the future- those of threats to funding, demographic shifts impacting enrollment, the challenge of aging infrastructure in a hightech modern city, and of current training and retaining of faculty in a competitive job market Despite the challenges, there is no doubt that Drake State is material to its community, and we will continue to forge ahead through collaboration and working with our partners to ensure opportunities for all.
Q; Finally, what advice would you offer to aspiring leaders and educators particularly those who look up to you about forging a successful career in education or making a difference in their community?
A: Education is a rewarding path. Aspiring leaders must be patient, resilient, and ready to grow Seek mentorship, seize opportunities, and stay flexible Serve your community, earn trust, and lead with integrity wherever you are. True leadership begins when you bloom where you're planted.
Don't look at your feet to see if you are doing it right, just dance.
Christopher Blanding
CHRISTOPHER BLANDING
Director of Admissions
Alabama School of Cyber Technology & Engineering
Q: When you were younger, did you see yourself becoming an educator?
A: When I was younger, I never imagined myself becoming an educator As an elementary student, I dreamed of being a successful business owner- the kind who flew around the country brokering big deals, staying in luxury hotels, and driving fancy cars That vision stayed with me for a long time But everything started to shift in 11th grade when I took AP English with Ms Patrica Garder
She didn't just teach-she inspired Her passion, her presence, and the way she genuinely cared about it made me realize that teaching could have an even greater impact than any business deal That is when I began to understand that influencing lives, like Ms. Gardner influenced mine, could be more fulfilling than anything I had previously imagined.
Q: What impact do you hope to make in your current position?
A: As Director of Admissions at Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, I hope to broaden access to a non-traditional, forward-thinking educational experience
My goal is to introduce a diverse group of students to opportunities they may have never imagined infields like cyber, engineering, and technology and help them see themselves as future innovators and leaders By doing so, I hope to not only shape individual futures, but also contribute to a more inclusive and prepared next generation of STEM professionals.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give students today to help them in their future?
A: One piece of advice I would give students today, who are leaders of tomorrow is this: don't settle for being average Strive for excellence in everything you do. Put in the work, go the extra mile, and challenge yourself to rise above what's expected When you commit to being great, great things will happen for you and because of you
If nothing changes, nothing changes!" Embrace the morphing process.
Sonya Merritt
SONYA MERRITT
Director of Experiential Learning Opportunities Alabama A&M University
Q: When you were younger, did you see yourself becoming an educator?
A: No, not at all Both of my parents and grandparents (on my mother's side of the family) were educators During those formative years, however, I did not see myself duplicating the line of work that my parents were in. As a high school graduate, I saw myself pursuing business
During high school, I was active in 'all things business' starting with being the Corresponding Secretary in the Student Government Association, being a writer in the Journalism Club, and participating in the Future Business of America Club On my first job under my high school work study program, I worked at a banking processing center So no, I did not see myself pursing an education degree or becoming an educator.
Q: What impact do you hope to make in your current position?
A: As the Experiential Learning Opportunities Director, I have the amazing opportunity to impact thousands of students at Alabama A &M University through designing outlets that will groom their soft-skills It is key that learners are able to give attention to their relational abilities on the job I hope to see thousands of students leave our University and experience unlimited opportunities in the marketplace because of their ability to show up with solid technical skills coupled with valuable soft skills.
The target is that they will be well-developed critical thinkers, valued team-partners and efficient executers My moto [correct spelling should be motto] is 'aspire, dream, develop and achieve ' One of my mission statements is to transform lives by directing, advising and coaching students through life choices and professional developmental strategies
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give students today to help them in their future?
A: Pay attention, pay attention, pay attention! I would tell students to diligently observe the history of our world and learn the business, economic, spiritual and cultural forecast so that they can prepare for the new trends, new processes, and new mindsets that are forming The landscape in our world is literally changing daily or perhaps hourly! I would advise students to prepare for where the marketplace is going, not for where it has been over the past 5 years I would tell them to become undeniably skillful It could be very easy to allow artificial intelligence to replace human intelligence Even if students maintain skills that were used 2 years ago, they will be behind the learning curve for today's evolutionary climate. I would advise them to identify a role model that could lead them to their future. Learn what nurtured their success. Identify life-principles that they could model
I would tell students to clearly understand that some statements are not just cliche, they are reality: "Build on the shoulders of great women and men " This will be key in saving them years of failed attempts typically learned from trial and error Most of all, I would tell them to realize that our life is so much more than what we see. There is a spiritual element to our existence that is undeniable. I would encourage them to please make the Lord - the Great I Aman integral part of their life and future plans and to set their standards higher than they think they could possibly achieve Dream big - let's go!
Success is not just about achievements it’s about becoming the person God designed you to be. Be teachable. Stay curious. Lean into your community. You are not alone. And always live with faith, integrity, and purpose.
Dr Rachel Ballard
DR. RACHEL BALLARD
Executive Head of School, Kingdom Heights Preparatory School
When you were younger, did you see yourself becoming an educator?
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a news anchor captivated by storytelling and giving voice to important issues. But growing up, I saw educational challenges around me. In my community, many students struggled with reading, math, and communication I realized that without a strong foundation, their futures would be limited That moment sparked a passion that became my life’s calling
For over 22 years, I’ve been more than a teacher; I’ve been an advocate and champion for educational excellence My mission is to ensure every student receives high-quality instruction and sees themselves as powerful contributors to their communities.
Children can’t always speak for themselves As Proverbs 31:8 reminds us, we must speak up for them I believe in the power of collaboration with families, educators, and the community Together, we can empower students to dream, lead, and thrive
What impact do you hope to make in your current position?
As Head of a new Christian school, my mission is to build a Christ-centered community where students, families, and staff grow together in faith, knowledge, and character I am committed to creating an environment where every student is known, loved, and challenged to reach their full potential; spiritually, academically, and personally.
Our focus is on academic excellence and life skills like communication, collaboration, and resilience, rooted in biblical truth I want students to know who they are and whose they are prepared to engage the world with wisdom and purpose For staff, I strive to foster a supportive culture where educators are inspired mentors equipped with the tools to
thrive in their calling We will partner closely with families, honoring them as a child’s first spiritual leaders Together, we will raise faithful, confident, and compassionate leaders ready to make a lasting impact in their communities and the world
What is one piece of advice you would give students today to help them in their future?
Take time to discover what truly brings you joy Notice the activities you naturally enjoy; they often point to your Godgiven passions and purpose Choose a path that aligns with your values, strengths, and calling Step outside your comfort zone Growth happens when you embrace challenges and take smart risks New experiences though uncomfortable can lead to powerful breakthroughs
Surround yourself with mentors who can guide you spiritually, academically, and professionally. Be open to honest feedback; it’s key to personal growth. Read often and listen well Books expand your thinking, and listening builds empathy and wisdom
Learn to manage your finances early Budget, save, invest, and give Financial discipline creates long-term freedom and opportunity
If possible, with your parents’ support, pursue a job or internship before graduation. Real-world experience builds confidence, reveals strengths, and helps shape your future direction
Value time with your family, especially your elders Their stories and wisdom are priceless Travel when you can New places and people broaden your view and build gratitude And most importantly, make service a lifestyle A life of generosity and compassion leaves a lasting impact
LEADERS FOR TOMORROW
This special section of the Leadership Magazine is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the incredible achievements of young, driven leaders who are already making a significant and lasting impact in their communities and beyond. These students exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and integrity. From outstanding academic excellence, remarkable leadership, and dedication to community service, to bold steps in entrepreneurship and innovation, they are truly paving the way for a brighter and more empowered future.
Through thoughtful student spotlights, insightful interviews, and meaningful educator recommendations, our goal is to both inspire and ignite the potential of the next generation of leaders As this section continues to grow in future issues, we plan to expand our offerings to include mentorship opportunities, college scholarships, leadership development resources, and even the creation of a student advisory board all designed to cultivate, support, and uplift tomorrow’s changemakers in impactful and sustainable ways.
"The future isn’t waiting — it’s being shaped by the bold, passionate, and purposeful leaders of today. Keep rising, keep leading, and keep believing."
J’NYIA FARMER
JRising Senior Business Administration and Management Major
J’Nyia Farmer has already made a lasting impact through her leadership, service, and academic excellence. A Business Administration and Management major at Alabama A&M University, J'Nyia is on track to graduate in May 2026 with a 3.9 GPA. Originally from Saint Louis, Missouri, she is passionate about creating spaces that empower others especially young girls.
J’Nyia is the embodiment of purpose and professionalism. She recently served as the Second Vice President of the Gamma Mu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., President of the Bulldog Elite Stomp and Shake Team, and held public relations roles in multiple organizations including Baptist Student Ministries, Women of Worth, and Phi Beta Lambda Business Fraternity, Inc. etc.
Her leadership extends beyond campus. As a recent Summer Program Facilitator at Girls Incorporated, J’Nyia developed empowerment programs, advocated for change, and coordinated mentorship initiatives. Her internship experience with BNY(Bank of New York) is further sharpening her business, marketing, and networking skills, while her time at Texas Roadhouse enhanced her communication and customer service abilities.
J’Nyia’s commitment to community service is equally impressive. She’s volunteered with Huntsville Botanical Garden, House of Hope and Restoration Church Nursery, the Downtown Rescue Mission's Women's House, Early Works Children's Museum and more. Her drive and character have earned her numerous honors, including two President’s Silver Medals, three Heritage Silver Scholarships, Sadia Naseem Scholarship, Cheryl Witt Scholarship, Dr Olivia Harris Sanders Scholarship, the Washington D.C. Federal Water Quality Association Scholarship, among others.
With a growing list of accomplishments and a heart for service, J’Nyia Farmer is not just preparing for the future she’s helping shape it
TAYLOR HUGHES
Rising Senior at Hazel Green Highschool
TTaylor Hughes is a rising senior at Hazel Green High School in Alabama, where she stands out as a visionary student driven by purpose, faith, and a passion for building community Raised in North Alabama, Taylor has been shaped by the region’s blend of rural charm and urban growth an environment that ignited her interest in urban development and commercial real estate.
Inspired by her entrepreneurial mother, Taylor learned early on what it means to build something meaningful from the ground up with heart, intention, and impact. Her upbringing, along with deep involvement in her church and community, taught her that leadership is not just about achievement, but about using her gifts to serve others and create lasting change.
Academically, Taylor holds an impressive 4.0 GPA and is a dual enrollment student She has completed a Real Estate Academy course, a Graphic Design course, and holds certifications in Customer Service & Sales, as well as College & Career Readiness. Her drive and discipline led her to compete at the state level in DECA, where she presented a strategic marketing plan to scale a local hair salon; an experience that further sharpened her creative and business acumen.
Taylor currently serves as President of her school’s DECA chapter, a Student Vault Teller at Redstone Federal Credit Union, and the Senior Lead School Ambassador She’s also a committed volunteer mentoring youth as a summer camp counselor, choreographing for her church’s dance ministry, and contributing to her media team.
Looking ahead, Taylor plans to pursue a degree in Urban Planning with a minor in Finance, followed by an MBA and real estate license. Her goal is to lead innovative commercial real estate developments that reflect culture, community, and global connection. She also dreams of launching initiatives to empower teens and multifaceted women around the world.
With her heart for service, mind for strategy, and eye for design, Taylor Hughes isn’t just planning for the future she’s preparing to transform it.
AANDREW JACKSON
CIS Grad, Engineering Student at Drake State Community College
Andrew Jackson graduated in May 2025 with a degree in Computer Information Systems and is currently working toward completing a second degree in Engineering Design by Spring 2026. Afterward, he plans to continue his studies in CIS and pursue a Ph.D. His academic and professional journey has been dynamic and inspiring. He recently completed two rotations at NASA, spending about a year and a half working with 3D additive manufacturing to support the design of moon bases and the reduction of moon regolith for future Artemis missions. He is now continuing that momentum at Northrop Grumman, where he works as a Software Engineer.
During high school, Andrew often felt overlooked. However, his experience at Drake State marked a turning point he began to feel seen and appreciated for his hard work. He transitioned from feeling like an invisible student to leading multiple teams and collaborating with some of the most respected organizations in the nation. That transformation remains surreal to him and continues to drive his passion.
Currently classified as a sophomore, Andrew has received numerous honors throughout his college career. In October, he will be awarded the Engineering and Science Scholarship from
the National Space Club. He is also proud to serve as a Jacob’s Frontier Research Scholar and as President of the Blue Eagle Ambassadors. One of his most notable accomplishments includes leading his team to a 4th place finish in the FICO AI Data Analytics Challenge. In addition, he has made the Dean’s List for both Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 and earned a certificate from the Boeing Regional Technical Hub.
Beyond academics and internships, Andrew is passionate about community service. Through the Blue Eagle Ambassadors, he has participated in numerous service projects throughout North Alabama. One of the most impactful experiences was partnering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for families in need. He and his team also organize seasonal donation drives, such as collecting blankets for women with breast cancer and gathering essential supplies for those preparing for winter (More information on how to get involved or donate can be found on the Drake State website.)
Andrew sees all he has accomplished so far as just the beginning and is excited for what lies ahead.
JAMARION WILLIE-HUGHES
Rising Sophomore at Troy University
AAt just 19 years old, Jamarion Willie-Hughes is already charting a path marked by purpose, passion, and impact. A rising sophomore at Troy University and a proud 2024 graduate of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE), Jamarion is deeply committed to leadership, innovation, and meaningful community engagement.
Currently majoring in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Jamarion maintains a 3.5 GPA while focusing on technology innovation and systems design. His vision is clear: to use engineering not just as a profession, but as a powerful tool to solve real-world problems and uplift communities His academic drive is matched by an entrepreneurial spirit and a hands-on approach to learning.
Jamarion’s college journey has already been filled with milestones. He earned 3rd Place in a Business Pitch Competition, receiving $1,000 toward his business venture. He’s been elected SGA Senator for both the West Housing District and At-Large for the 2025–2026 school year, and serves in multiple leadership roles across campus, including Community Engagement Manager for Student Made, Vice President of the TRIO Student Advisory Council, and Committee Chair for Spirit and Traditions in SGA.
Beyond titles and accolades, Jamarion remains grounded in service. He works in the Troy University Admissions Office, serves as Secretary for Circle K International (CKI), and is an active member of organizations like NAACP, Trojan Ambassadors, and the Civic Scholar Lab and Democracy Project.
He’s been honored as a two-time inductee to the Student Made Wall of Fame and was recently featured in Troy University’s official marketing video alongside the Chancellor, proof that his leadership is not only seen but celebrated.
With a powerful combination of academic excellence, civic engagement, and a heart for others, Jamarion Willie-Hughes is not only preparing for the future; he’s helping redefine it.
SED’S POV:
From freshman year to senior year, What started as an elective has now become a purpose-driven passion Today, Sed travels across the Southeast capturing powerful moments in high school and college sports, blending his love for storytelling with creative excellence.
He carved his own lane, built his own style, and turned a class assignment into a career Now, he shoots high school games across the Southeast and have stepped into college-level sports photography; all from staying consistent, selftaught, and committed to striving every day
This section of Leadership Magazine is dedicated to those who strive every day. It’s for the students becoming leaders, and for the educators who never stop believing in them
To every student reading this: Your gift might be hidden in a moment you didn’t expect; an elective, a conversation, a spark Stay curious, keep showing up, and trust the journey
Every story has a spark, and for Sed, that spark was found behind the lens in Mr Mittman’s photography class
Eric Mittman
In a world that sometimes seems more about politics than potential, Kee’s journey reminds us that the timing of your breakthrough is just as important as the talent behind it
Kee is choosing to train harder, get stronger, and sharpen his craft under the guidance of his uncle, RC; the coach and mentor who has helped him grow into a confident young player over the past three years.
KEEMARION BASS
WHO FUELS KEE’S GAME:
LEBRON JAMES
“You have to be able to accept failure to get better ”
LeBron James is an professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Nicknamed "King James", he is the NBA's alltime leading scorer and has won four NBA championships from 10 NBA Finals appearances, having made eight consecutive appearances between 2011 and 2018.
ANTHONY EDWARDS
“I’m never scared. I just play. That’s what I love to do ”
Anthony Edwards nicknamed "Ant-Man" is an professional basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association (NBA). A shooting guard, Edwards played college basketball for the Georgia Bulldogs and was selected with the first overall pick by the Timberwolves in the 2020 NBA draft. He is a three-time NBA All-Star, a two-time All-NBA Second Team selection, and won a gold medal on the 2024 U.S. Olympic team
JA MORANT
“Beneath every struggle is a strength You just gotta keep working ”
TRUSTING THE TIMING TRUSTING THE TIMING
By Keemarion Bass
From REC Ball to JV: Kee’s Journey
Temetrius Jamel "Ja" Morant is an American professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Murray State Racers, where he was a consensus firstteam All-American as a sophomore in 2019.
From REC ball to AAU, Kee has been lacing up since grade school but when he didn’t make his middle school team, he didn’t stop He trained He stayed in the gym He showed up. And when the time was right, he made his freshman summer team and played a great season. Now, after earning his spot on the JV summer team, Kee is more focused than ever. This summer, he’s skipping AAU to grind in the gym, build strength, and keep growing under the mentorship of his uncle RC the coach who’s believed in him from the very start.
Just because they didnt pick you, doesnt mean you’re not chosen.
Kennidi Bass is a rising high school freshman, entrepreneur, and team leader with a heart full of faith and creativity. As the youngest and only girl in her family, Kennidi brings a unique blend of strength, style, and compassion to everything she does.
She is the founder of Kennidi’s Kreations, a custom treat and gifting brand known for its candy grapes, strawberry crunch creations, and beautifully themed gift bundles. Her business blends purpose and presentation proving you can be both sweet and strategic.
Kennidi also serves as a Sparkman High School cheer manager, where she supports her team with leadership, organization, and school spirit. Whether she’s leading a fundraiser, designing a birthday bundle, or cheering from the sidelines, Kennidi is dedicated to making a difference with excellence and heart.
She is a shining example that you’re never too young to lead with purpose, walk in faith, and create something unforgettable.
Rooted in Legacy, Rising in Purpose
Honoring where we come from while shaping where we’re going.
“Your gift might be hidden in an elective, a conversation, or a moment you didn’t expect ” -Kee
“I’m learning that discipline off the court makes a better player on it ”
“It’s not about fitting in. It’s about showing up as yourself.”
When someone believes in you, it can change the entire course of your life. I’m living proof.
NevilleSimpson
THE VISION BEHIND THE CAMERA
Neville Simpson Photographer
As we spotlight educators in this edition, can you share about a teacher or mentor who made a lasting impact on your life?
My junior high school teacher, Mr. William, saw that I had a knack for drawing. He offered to meet with me two to three mornings a week before school to help me hone my skills. Thanks to his guidance, I was able to pass the entrance exam to attend LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City the same school that produced talents like Jennifer Aniston, Robert De Niro, Omar Epps, Al Pacino, and Billy Dee Williams
However, my parents didn’t see art as a viable career path and encouraged me to attend Aviation High School instead, where I graduated with an Airframe and Powerplant license to fix airplanes. Mr. William was heartbroken and a bit disappointed that I didn’t attend the art school, but I often wish he could see me now I’m still using the foundational techniques he taught me, just with a camera instead of a pencil
Was there a specific moment or influence that led you to photography and did an educator play a role in that discovery?
Absolutely I discovered photography through the encouragement of a former educator and pastor, Dr Oscar L Montgomery. He advised me to pray and ask God to reveal where He wanted me to serve in the church. Shortly after, I overheard a conversation about how the church used to have a photographer, and that sparked something in me I bought my first camera, and within a year, I was appointed the church photographer That decision launched what would become my photography business Two decades later, photography is still my ministry and now operate four distinct photography brands:
Neville Simpson Photography for weddings and portraits
Headshot HSV for headshots and corporate events
HSV and Beyond Art Gallery featuring motivational fine art
NHS Studio specializing in architectural and interior photography
It all started with a prayer and the encouragement of an educator who believed in me
How has mentorship influenced your journey not just creatively, but personally?
Mentorship has shaped every part of my journey I believe in paying it forward because so many people have poured into me. Over 20 years ago, I had the opportunity to assist Beth Boldt, the fashion photographer who discovered Naomi Campbell which gave me early insight into the industry. I also learned editing and Photoshop from my close friend Bill Boehm, collaborating on countless projects in the early 2000s
As an educator at Oakwood University, it brings me real joy to mentor the next generation of photographers and watch them build their own businesses On a personal level, one of my greatest mentors was my late father-in-law, Pastor John Henderson. From our first lunch in 2014 until the week he passed, he never stopped encouraging me. Inspired by him and the film The Forge, I’m now developing a mentorship curriculum and Bible study for young men to continue his legacy
This edition highlights educators and their impact. What has it meant to you to photograph leaders in the education space?
It takes a special kind of person to be an educator I’ve learned so much from the incredible individuals featured in this issue hearing their “why” and witnessing their passion firsthand.
For me, photography is more than getting the perfect shot It’s about building a connection so my subjects feel seen, valued, and at ease That’s when the real magic happens I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to capture their stories
BRIDGING TECHNOLOGY & SECURITY
For Safer Communities & Smarter Schools
Services We Offer:
At 4D Communications, we specialize in tailored technical solutions. Our core services include:
for K-12 schools and colleges in underserved areas
We believe that when schools are safe and connected, students thrive Our faith-based mission fuels our commitment to empower communities through technology; one campus, one classroom, one family at a time
THE LEGACY. THE LESSON. THE LEADERS.
The Legacy
On March 10th, 2025, Leadership Magazine made its unforgettable debut. A dream born out of loss, love, and unwavering vision came to life on my mother’s birthday forever stamping her legacy across every page. It was my real estate anniversary and a reminder that from the deepest valleys, something greater always rises.
The Lesson
This Educator Edition is more than a collection of pages it’s a tribute to those who pour knowledge into others, shape the future in silence, and rarely receive the recognition they deserve. As we honor their efforts, I’m reminded that leadership doesn’t always start in boardrooms it begins in classrooms, with chalk-covered hands and tireless hearts.
The Leaders
Every teacher, mentor, and administrator featured here is a reflection of the future they’re helping mold. Their influence is generational. Their stories are proof that one voice, one act of belief, can change the entire trajectory of a student’s life
With gratitude,
Pamela Bass
Pamela Jackson Bass Publisher & Visionary
“Education is not just about lessons learned in school, but about legacies written into the hearts of every student they touch.”
