Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media | March/April 2022

VISION & PURPOSE MARCH/APRIL 2022

LifeStyle Magazine and Media

2ND ANNIVERSARY & WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH EDITION

Principal Carol Montague-Davis Retires from Historic Carver High School VANDPMAGAZINE.COM

Congratulations The First Black Woman Nominated to the United States Supreme Court

VISION & PURPOSE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE AND MEDIA

CONTENTS

4 Dawn Inspires

20 NC Feature

22 Women Who Lead

42 BookTalk

51 TechWorld

2 Editor's Note 6 L.E.A.D Transformational Leadership

By Theresa A. Moseley, Ph.D. 8 It's All Business Entrepreneurial Wellness

By Dr. Erika McCormick 10 Business Spotlight Choose to Live- Anika Cohen

By Sharon H. Porter, Ed.D. 14 Mind. Body, & Soul I Am Not My Legs featuring Katrina Barnes

By Jarita Hagans, M.D.

48 Book Chat With the Baldwins Book Chat With the Baldwins

By Becky V Baldwin & Lauren Baldwin 50 Your Finance Credit: How Does It Really Work

By Chanay Robinson

27 Carol Montague-Davis Retired Principal of Carver High School

53 EducationFIRST Meet Dr. Essie McKoy Educate ME Foundation

By Dr. Sharon H. Porter

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MARCH/APRIL 2022

Editor-In-Chief

Dr. Sharon H. Porter Greetings V&P LifeStyle Magazine readers.

Welcome to the March/April 2022 issue. This is our 2nd Anniversary and Women's History Month Edition. It is my extreme pleasure to bring you an issue of impactful stories of amazing women from across the United States.

In this issue, we honor and recognize retired Principal Carol Montague-Davis, of the Historic Carver High School, in Winston-Salem, NC.

PUBLISHER Perfect Time SHP Publishing EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dr. Sharon H. Porter Layout & Graphic Design SHP Media & Graphics Director of Sales Michelle B. Hauser Photographer & Design Consultant James Adéll Photography

The purpose and mission of V&P LifeStyle Magazine is to promote excellence in all aspects of leadership.

Innovation. Transformation. Collaboration.

Contact www.vandpmagazine.com info@vandpmagazine.com sales@vandpmagazine.com

@vandpmagazine MARCH/APRIL 2022 V&P MAGAZINE

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VISION & PURPOSE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORS Sharon H. Porter, Ed.D. President of SHP Enterprise, CEO of Perfect Time SHP, LLC, Owner and Editor-In-Chief of Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine, LLC

Dawn Marie Bornheimer Business Executive and Coach Founder, Dawn Inspires Chief Movement Officer, WNM Ventures, LLC

Michelle B. Hauser CEO & Owner, Sidez Catering Author

Chanay Robinson CEO, The Professional Credit Diva, LLC Financial Literacy Coach.

Theresa A. Moseley, Ph.D.

Erika McCormick, Ph.D., CLC, Renowned Master Coach, Serial Entrepreneur, Author and Speaker

CEO and owner, TAM Creating Ambassadors of Peace, LLC. Educator, Speaker, and Author.

Essie Mckoy, Ed.D.

Jarita Hagans, M.D.

CEO and Founder o f Dr. Essie Speaks, LLC. Award winning educator and Six times best-selling author.

Board Certified Family Physician and owner of Zion Family Practice.

Lauren Baldwin

Beck y V B aldwin founder of Baubles 'N Buttons Author and Host

Educator, Author, and Host

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D

awn

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nspires

By Dawn Marie Bornheimer Positive Psychology defines self-leadership as “the practice of understanding who you are, identifying your desired experiences, and intentionally guiding yourself toward them.” So how do you arrive at this level of self-awareness? The journey looks a bit different for all of us but what I can tell you is it is possible for each of us!

Understanding who we are - this might just be the most challenging and yet foundation element of self-leadership.

From a young age, we are introduced to the beliefs of our families, caregivers, friends, community, and even now perfect strangers through social media. As we grow up we then start to sort and sift, filtering out the things that do not feel true for us, and this my friends is the essence of becoming more yourself.

As a leader of a team, I recognize the great responsibility and value of continuously working on myself. Selfdevelopment became an intentional practice for me a little over five years ago. One morning on the train, I began reading a book called The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. I had always valued exercise as a way to start my day, getting up at 6:00 am and fitting in a good workout before starting my workday but this book offered me additional tools to put in place to truly take control of my morning routine to set me up for success as I stepped into a place of service around 9:00 am each day!

Having a solid morning routine changed my life for the better! This is where the second component of self-leadership began to take shape. I identified how I desired to feel each day and having this in place, not only allowed me to be on my “A Game” more often, it gave me skills to lead more thoughtful discussions and in the moments of stress, I was better equipped to navigate the challenges and move in the direction of solution faster.

This is where the third element of self-leadership gets amplified! When you see and feel the results, you become more committed to creating more of the same. You begin surrounding yourself with like-minded people, you begin reading the books that you learned about on the podcast you listened to yesterday, you begin engaging with others differently.

You begin spending time with individuals that talk more about their purpose, dreams, and goals, and less about people.

It’s truly amazing what you can welcome into your experience when you start realizing that you attract more of what you radiate into the world.

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If this is exciting to imagine and you are wondering where to start, I have put together some tips that I invite you to try on for size. Some of them will not work for you, and that’s not only okay but it is essential to find out what does work.

Establish a morning routine - this could involve a gratitude journal, reading 10 minutes of scripture, lacing up your sneakers and getting out into nature, or sitting quietly with a cup of hot water with lemon before your house wakes up. Whatever this is, it should be FOR YOU, it should give you energy and help you feel ready to take on the day.

Find Community/Connection - By definition, the word community is a group of people who share something in common. Find people who love to run, knit, read, hike, or create. These individuals will come together to inspire, motivate, and share in your passion allowing you to stay connected to something outside of yourself that excites you. I have a few of these communities and each serves a unique purpose and the people they attract allow me to expand my network, find accountability, and push me to continue to learn and grow!

Dedicate Time to Reflect - This is an important skill in learning to not only understand ourselves to acknowledge that we are always evolving. We are a beautiful work in progress, as life presents us with opportunities to learn and grow, there are lessons along the way that shape us. When we set daily, weekly, and monthly goals we should also build in time to learn from what went well as well as what did not go as planned (after all, we will all encounter missteps). Ask yourself, “What am I meant to learn? What would I do differently if I was presented with a similar challenge? How has this made me a better leader, partner, friend, parent, etc?

Embrace Learning and Play - Always be a student of life and find time to color, explore, laugh, and play more.

This might mean playing in the backyard or at the park or sitting down with a coloring book while you watch TV at night. What can you do to build more play and job? Is this organizing a game night with family and friends, or does it mean hopping on the swings with your eight-year-old? Whatever it looks like for you, play is a great way to raise your vibration and bring more joy into your experience.

This may feel like a tall order, so just start…. Start with whichever one of these lights your heart up, build it into your life until it becomes woven into the fabric of who you are becoming. Then when you are finding consistency, see which one you want to build in next. Before you know it, you will have cultivated a rock-solid self-leadership practice you can be proud of!

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L. E. A. D.

Learn. Excel. Achieve. Develop.

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

By Theresa A. Moseley, Ph.D.

A transformational leader inspires, motivates, encourages, and believes positive change can occur if you empower your employees to perform beyond their expectations. James V. Downton, a sociologist, also known for his charismatic leadership, coined the phrase Transformational Leadership in 1973. There are several definitions that define Transformational Leadership; however, all are consistent with motivating employees to perform above and beyond their goals. Peter Northouse, a leadership consultant, professor, and author describes transformational leadership as a “process whereby a person engages with others and creates a connection that raises the level of motivation and morality in both the leader and the follower.” According to James MacGregor Burns, transforming leadership is a process in which "leaders and followers help each other to advance to a higher level of morale and motivation. In 1985 Bernard M. Bass expanded on the work of transformational leadership and developed a Transformational Leadership Theory that contains four components: Idealized Influence, Inspirational Motivation, Intellectual Stimulation, and Individual Consideration.

As a new high school principal in 2014, I used all four components to create positive change in the school culture and improve student and teacher performance. First, I began with Inspirational Motivation. We made sure our vision was directional, descriptive and included statements on our culture and instructional program. The school staff used a chart to display the old vision and updated the vision with a new focus. We continued to work on the vision until 100 percent of the staff agreed that the vision captured what we valued and represent as a school. Next, we identified our common values and beliefs. Once we identified eight values and beliefs, we determined where we want to go with our mission. A transformational leader understands the importance of sharing values and beliefs, developing a vision and mission statement aligned with those beliefs, and including all stakeholders in the process to ensure consensus and positive change. Next was Intellectual Stimulation and Individualized Consideration. I used two of my top five leadership strengths, strategic and developer, to build the capacity of the leadership team and teachers. We developed goals together and I strategically assigned the administrators areas where I knew they would thrive and perform above what they expected. There was ongoing monthly professional development based on the outcomes of Learning Walks. I also spent time coaching the leadership team to build upon their strengths. All new staff was provided mentors and new teachers were placed in a new teacher academy. We planned, implemented, and monitored all goals while revisiting the vision on a regular basis which is fundamental in the process of change.

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The final piece was Idealized Influence. I had to maintain my enthusiasm with the staff, students, parents, and the community. Communication is a very important piece of the equation. There were monthly parent newsletters, weekly teacher newsletters, and quarterly portfolio reviews to assist teachers with any areas of concern with instructional strategies, best practices, student performance, and professionalism. We developed several partnerships in the community which supported the school with human resources and financial resources.

There were a few stakeholders who were resistant to change; however, that did not stop the day-to-day progress and overall culture of the school. We created shared values and beliefs at the beginning of the year and used them as a focal point to assess where we were. Most staff were enthusiastic about the new instructional focus, professional development, shared purpose. In the book Leverage Leadership (2018) Brian Sims stated “The more unified a culture is around the core ideas and values, the more likely it is that “holdouts” will begin to feel that the culture is simply not for them, leading them to look elsewhere.”

As I look back on my role as a transformational leader, our change was guided through shared visioning and the mission we developed during the first year. Each month we revisited the vision as well as revisiting the vision in the beginning of each year. We monitored our goals and made sure all the systems and structures were organized for collaborative work. We implemented fifteen steps as outlined in the book, Step into Leadership Greatness. The steps provided us with a road map to plan, implement, and monitor the instructional program and culture.

As a Transformational Leader, I inspired and motivated others to perform above their perceived capabilities. As a result, we were most improved in truancy and were recognized on NBC4 news. in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. We decreased suspensions by 55 percent during my first year. The 9th-grade promotion rate and 12th-grade graduation rate increased on the average three percentage points each year for three years. In 2017, the 9th-grade promotion rate increased five percentage points to 88 percent. The staff was very passionate about the work and our outcomes were positive. I made sure I used my strengths including positivity to energize the staff and to let them know, I believe in them. As a transformational leader, I also celebrated the small successes and made time to connect with my staff on a personal level. Establishing trust and respect is fundamental in leadership. Having a mantra as a daily reminder that we are all in this together is important.

The one constant reminder for my faculty as we implemented the vision and mission was, “I See the Best in You” “Achieve then Lead.”

References Bass, Bernard (1985) Leadership and Performance Beyond Expectations.

Burns, James Macgregor (2004) Transformational Leadership.

Bamrick-Santoya, Paul (2018) Leverage Leadership 2.0.

Burns, J.M. Transformational Leadership Langston October 5, 2019.

Downton, James V. (1973) Rebel Leadership: Commitment and Charisma in the Revolutionary Process.

Jones Bryant, Jennifer (2021) Step into Leadership Greatness.

Northouse, Peter G (2015) Leadership: Theory and Practice 7th Edition MARCH/APRIL 2022 V&P MAGAZINE

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Entrepreneurial Wellness

By Dr. Erika McCormick

Introduction As an entrepreneur and business owner, it's so easy to get caught up in the daily hustle and bustle of managing, owning, and operating your own company. However, when was the last time you asked yourself how are you doing mentally, physically, and emotionally?

As a serial entrepreneur and master coach, I myself have fallen victim to self-neglect. There are so many books and tools on how to create a successful six and seven figure business and how to grow and scale a fortune 500 company…but nothing for the owner. As I began to manage my own self-care and realized that I was not the only entrepreneur to fall victim to circumstance, that is how my book volume Series The Business Blueprint was born, with the first title to be released being Business Blueprint: Interactive Self-Help Guide to Entrepreneurial Wellness.

What is Entrepreneurial Wellness?

Entrepreneurial Wellness is the foundational element of the overall success and mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of an entrepreneur. The 24/7 hustle non-stop mindset has been an ongoing problematic nature for entrepreneurship culture for decades.

To break this cycle, we as business owners must understand the true importance of entrepreneurial wellness.

The two key components of entrepreneurial wellness are Self-Awareness and Self-Care.

Self-Awareness Self-awareness is the ability to focus on yourself and how your actions, thoughts, or emotions do or don't align with your internal standards. In philosophy of self, self-awareness is the experience of one's own personality or individuality. While consciousness is being aware of one's environment and body and lifestyle, self-awareness is the recognition of that awareness. Self-awareness involves being aware of different aspects of the self-including traits, behaviors, and feelings. Essentially, it is a psychological state in which oneself becomes the focus of attention.

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There Are 5 Elements to Self-Awareness: Self-Concept. Your self-concept is your perception of you.

Thoughts. Our thoughts are tied to our emotions, so when we try to become more aware of our emotions, we must first understand our thoughts and thought processes.

Feelings. How do you feel when you say things about yourself? What about when other people say things about you? No matter what your feelings are, you must identify which are associated with your thoughts and experiences.

Body. The next time you feel a physical response to an emotion, take a couple of minutes to think where in your body you feel the response. Do the feelings present in your facial expressions, heart rate, voice, or somewhere else? Sometimes a physical response to your body may be one that others around you can’t see or notice. Is this the kind of physical response you want?

Emotions. Emotions are the most powerful factor in how we interact with others. People with higher levels of emotional intelligence are able to recognize and accept their varying emotional states. Knowing what emotional state you're in can go a long way toward enhancing your professional and personal relationships.

Remember, you are the only person who can control the optimal power over your body, your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Take back your power and never allow anyone to have that level of control over you.

As a successful entrepreneur, your business can only be as well as you are. Self-Care Self-care has been defined as the process of taking care of oneself with behaviors that promote health and active management of illness when it occurs. When many hear the word “illness” the majority only think of this term in a physical sense of the matter. However, as humans, we can experience illness in all forms and elements of ourselves including mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Self -Care is the action one takes behind their analysis of their own self-awareness.

Effective Self-Care Tips for Entrepreneurs: Start Small: As business owners, our culture has taught us to work nonstop. Start by taking small breaks and allowing yourself downtime. As a business coach, I always introduce my clients to my Make It Micro Approach: Short diversions can provide a powerful boost. Try an online mindfulness meditation to improve emotional regulation, journaling to promote self-awareness, creative writing to increase well-being and creativity, reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken with in a while to increase your social connectedness, a gratitude exercise or an act of kindness to promote positivity, or a walk around the block to get your blood flowing.

Don’t forget to out YOU on the Agenda & To-Do List Create a Schedule: Begin to organize your time and manage it appropriately. Schedule your Self-Care.

Delegate & Orchestrate: Stop thinking YOU must do it all. Remember you are in this for yourself, but you don’t have to do it by yourself. ·Make it your own: Understand that self-care is as individual as the person practicing it, so it can take many different forms.

Entrepreneurial Wellness begins with you. It comes in many shapes and sizes, but done consciously and consistently, it gives you the tools you need to become a better leader and a happier, healthier person. If you want to become the best version of yourself and inspire those around you to do the same, investing in your own well-being is worth making time for.

Don’t forget to be on the lookout for my two new books Women Who Lead in Business & The Business Blueprint volume series to include the Interactive Self-Help Guide to Entrepreneurial Wellness.

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Choose to Live!

By Sharon H. Porter, Ed.D. Choose to Live Enterprises' goal is to help you re-imagine your life. With extensive experience in Life Coaching and a vast history of client success, Anika's individualized positivity and bold approach will help you attain your goals.

As a professionally trained and experienced life coach, Anika has the tools and understanding to help you to create the life you imagine and get a renewed sense of self.

Anika Cohen is known for her bold, direct and confident approach to compelling purpose-driven women to transform their lives. Anika propels her community to set intentions to create intentional strategic movement forward that will formulate transformation mentally, emotionally, and physically in their lifestyles. It's Anika's mantra that “Minor Steps create Major Impact”! Women are inspired through her story of overcoming addiction, domestic violence, separation in marriage, and single parenting. Anika coaches and facilitates intensive workshops and seminars to equip women to transition from being stuck to laser focused, vision to implementation, and from shame to success with the skills to create a brand, living legacy, and massive impact.

Anika has earned an Associate’s degree in Drug and Alcohol Counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science.

She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Science Management at Wilmington University.

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HIGHLIGHTS Gun Violence Survivor 2007 Prestigious Lady of Excellence in Leadership Award, 2014 Empowered Women of the Year for Educational Advancement 2017 Mentor of the Year, ACHI Magazine 2018 Lymphoma Cancer Survivor 2019

a k i n A y d La Anika is the author of her memoir “DIARIES OF AN ELECT LADY” and her self-help book titled Expose Unveil Discover: The Inner Woman Workbook & Guide.

Anika is congenial and passionate about the lives she encounters. She seeks to be an example to women of all diversities.

She continues, "If you're struggling with ideas on how to expand your community, you're in the right spot! If you want to increase your visibility and exposure in the marketplace, you're in the right spot! If you want to learn how to increase effectiveness and productivity, you're in the right spot!"

Anika started in business with nothing but her faith and her story. She is now an International Speaker, two-time Bestselling Author, three-time International Bestselling Visionary of Anthologies, and Business Strategist Coach.

Anika states, "but I had to say yes and give myself permission to GROW!!"

Anika hosts the Annual Propel, Launch, Execute (PLE) LIVE. PLE LIVE is for authors, coaches, and leaders to learn strategies that they can use to start, build and grow in the marketplace.

If you've never attended a PLE LIVE event, you are certainly missing out. This year's two-day event will be held May 13-14, 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Building high-performance entrepreneurs, authors, and career professionals, who are prepared for life's unexpected curveballs.

Contact us at www.thewhatnowmovement.com info@thewhatnowmovement.com

Katrina Barnes "I Am NOT my Legs" Katrina Barnes is 41 and resides in Georgia. She is living with two conditions that will cause her legs to never stop growing, and she exclaims "I still feel beautiful". She has both Lipedema (Lipodema) which is a fat storage disorder, that has caused an abnormal buildup of fat that she can't lose with dieting or exercise. This condition also cause her legs to be disfigured. It also causes extreme pain! Lymphedema, is a disorder dealing lymphatic system that causes Lymph fluid to build up inher legs and causes severe swelling.

Both of these conditions are extremely painful. They also cause a lot of other conditions to manifest in the body.

(Osteoarthritis, blood clots, extreme bruising, neuropathy etc..) Katrina notes that having these conditions are not easy at all.

She also have to live with the reality that these conditions do not have a cure . They are also debilitating conditions.

Though Katrina's mobility is severely affected, and she requires assistance with everyday tasks, she refuses to be defined by her condition. Her ultimate goal is to normalize different body types and redefine beauty standards, This is why she has chosen to become a advocate for both conditions and to live a transparent life when it comes to her conditions. She pose for an empowering photoshoots, tells her story on different platforms, and continue to educate herself and those around her as much as she can. It is also very important for her to join together with her fellow Lippy sisters and brothers, who also has the condition. Her motto is: "I'm not my legs. I am Katrina."

Dr. Jarita Hagans, a board-certified Family Practice doctor, author and owner of Zion Family Practice in Southeast Washington, D.C. and our Lead Writer in Health & Wellness sat down with Katrina for an open dialogue.

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Q&A With Katrina Barnes

By Jarita Hagans, M.D.

JH: Why do you call yourself a lipedema advocate or warrior?

KB: Well, I like to go by “lippy warrior” and so lippy warrior means for me I have two conditions: I have lipedema and lymphedema. I’m in a battle and fight these two conditions every day. I’m a warrior over this state of mind because every day is a battle for me.

JH: So, for people who may not know what lipedema and lymphedema are, let’s talk a little about fat storage and fluid storage from your personal point of view. What are the symptoms that you have?

KB: Lymphedema and lipedema are two different things. Lipedema is a fat storage disorder of the adipose tissue. The way I understand it is that you have diseased fat that you cannot lose by dieting or exercising. If you grow in many ways, and in different forms, that is what causes a disfigurement in your legs.

Sometimes, a lot of people get that confused with calorie weight. There’s a difference. Calorie weight you can lose, and we can all stand to lose some calorie weight! But the lipedema fat you cannot lose, so it builds up. There’s no cure for it, so you cannot stop its growth or its reproduction of it. I have secondary lymphedema. So, my lymphedema was caused by my lipidemia.

That’s just when my lymphatic fluid is not working properly. The fluid that builds up in your lymphatic system and your legs has nowhere else to go. So because it does not know how to expel itself, because it’s broken, so to say, It begins to build up a lot of fluid and that is what causes the swelling in our legs. It’s important for us to do compressions and things of that nature.

JH: So, I have a few patients with lymphedema, and they got a lot of pain from fluid buildup. For people who don’t know what the lymphatic system is, they are like channels that run through the body that is supposed to collect fluid and send it back towards your heart. Then your heart can pump it around and put the fluid where it’s supposed to go, in your blood vessels.

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There are people with conditions that keep it from doing that. For the few patients that I had with lymphedema, I would have them see an occupational therapist get either a compression machine or to get shown how to wrap their own legs in a certain way. Is that something you do?

KB: This is the reason why I try to raise awareness to try to get it out there. Because the more people we get out there, the more it may be covered and understood.

So I got notes from my doctors that they didn't know what was going on with me. Because I have what we call, the “double whammy”. I had lipedema and lymphedema. Sometimes it's harder to treat than the basic lipedema. I have not had the privilege of getting a pump or getting properly wrapped because my insurance has not covered it yet.

I went to a physical therapist while I was in a hospital, recovering from surgery and that was the only time that I did get professionally wrapped. But they did provide me with Tubigrip and that is what I use for my legs to this day. I just mimic what they did in that short period of time for my compression wear. I have not been fitted or had proper compression. Being from a small town, there are not many doctors and not many resources.

My primary care physicians don’t really understand it or don’t know what’s going on, so it's kind of hard. I had to really research and go elsewhere. I had to pay a doctor in California to have a consultation with him so I could have a better understanding of what I was dealing with after I got diagnosed.

JH: So how did you get diagnosed? Was it based on your symptoms, your physical exam or did they have to do some type of test to diagnose you?

I Am NOT My Legs!

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KB: I was at a doctor’s office out of town and when I walked in the office, the lady was like, “I know what you've got. I know what your issue is. I know what’s going on, you have lipedema.” I’m like, “Hmm, ok?” First, I was like, “What is wrong with this lady? Like what is this lady talking about?” Since she just came out with it. I’m like “Ok. Umm, please enlighten me.”

So, I went back into the doctor’s office, and they began to sit me down and to talk and they began to look over my legs, ask me about some symptoms and if I had experienced them. I was like, “Wow. What? Are you serious?” You know how when you get ready to die, it's like your life flashes before your eyes. It did that for me. From my childhood coming up and just put together some of the things that I was feeling. One of the symptoms that I was having that I didn't know was lipedema.

At the time of that visit, I was 35. I have lived with this condition all these years not knowing. Like my aunt used to always say, “There’s something wrong. There’s something wrong.” Because of my rapid growth. I was very active but I was steadily growing.

JH: Like what were some of those symptoms that you were having in childhood or young adulthood that you now know was lymphedema and lipedema?

KB: One of the many things is that even when I was a child, I knew I was in a lot of pain, and I used to complain about my legs or just complain about the pain overall. I used to wake up with bruises all over me or people asking, “how did you do that?” Even in school a couple of times, the teachers were like, “Are you ok? What’s going on at home? Are you being hurt?”

And I was like, “No, I bumped into something. I don’t know.” So, a lot of swelling went on, the rapid growth, the disfigurement of my legs or what we called “fat pads” grew all over my knees, behind my legs, and on the side of my legs.

My legs became really disfigured. As a child, I kind of looked normal but I was always bigger than everyone. By the time I was 9, I was like 200 pounds. I’m 6’2 now, but even then I was taller than everyone in my class. I guess my one fond memory of that was during class pictures. Everyone had to get on the bleachers, and I was standing on the side by the teacher with my pigtails and my little sweatsuit on, looking cute. So, this is something I had to deal with in my life.

When talking to the doctors, while learning about the symptoms I was like, “So, it wasn’t all in my head?” Cause you know, your parents be like, “Oh girl, nothing’s wrong with you. Get back out there and go play. You’re just lazy. You need to get up and do something.” I know they meant no harm, but they didn’t know. It felt like I was having an epiphany and then validation. Those are the right-then emotions when someone was telling you about what you dealt with all your life. Then you’re confused because I tried every diet, I tried every exercise but nothing was working.

JH: I could imagine you were probably relieved at first that somebody finally knew what was going on.

KB: At one point, I feel validated but then you go back to thinking about the past. Listen. I’ve been bullied, I’ve been called lazy, I’ve been called all the names in the book and I have a condition that I didn’t know about that I couldn’t control. I had to go through all these things for this moment. But in the end for me, I was happy that I did not know until I was 35.

JH: Why? KB: Even though I was always larger all my life, like at 16, I was 406 pounds. It’s crazy that I remember all these weights.

Anytime I would go to the doctor, I would see my weight and it would always stick with me. The doctors were telling my mama “Oh she probably will have two years to live”. All this was going on, it's something you never forget. So, I just grew up a big girl like, “that’s how it is” or “that’s how it will be”. My legs and my bottom half are just gonna be huge and that’s how it's going to be. So, I just learned to love myself as I was. I learned to be like, “this is what you are. You are dope; that you are just a cool kid, and you are going to have to live with it.” Because there’s nothing you can do about it. I felt like if I would have known, I would probably use that as a crutch or as an excuse to either not love who I was or I would have isolated myself. Different things would have happened and instead of being the active, happy person I was, I don’t think I was equipped mentally to handle knowing that earlier in life.

JH: So, tell me what a typical day is like for you now?

KB: Of course, the first thing I do is pray and tell God “Thank you for another day”. Because when you’re dealing with something like this, your days are not promised. Your days are numbered according to man. I normally go to my support group to see what’s going on, answer emails and reach out to people who reached out to me. Because a lot of people have given up hope that is dealing with this condition and they are isolated. I know that those people are reaching out to me to give themselves the strength and vice versa. I must pull from their strength as well to keep moving at times.

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JH: So, that’s a support group that you started?

KB: Yes. Lippy Warriors Support Group on Facebook that started. I do go on all my social media platforms since a lot of people reach out and I feel like I’m kind of stretched thin on that a little bit, but I do my best. It’s basically getting myself together, getting myself up. I do have an aide that probably comes around 10-ish. When my aide comes, I get up, get ready, get dressed for whatever it’s going to be for today. A lot of times, I have doctor’s appointments. I also keep my grandson, so just tending to him, getting him ready. It just depends on the day and if I’m going to the gym or other appointments. It’s not easy. It's a struggle because there are days when I desire to get up and do things and I want to do things, but my legs are not allowing me to do anything. What people must understand is that lipedema by itself is painful, then you have lymphedema that’s painful. Then you begin to get other things that happen to you medically. I have joint deterioration; all my joints have really bad arthritis. I have really bad neuropathy. I have widespread nerve pain all over my body that they call fibromyalgia.

JH: So, I can imagine you probably have some skin problems too?

KB: Yes, with the skin thing it is so imperative. Like you should see all the moisturizers, coconut butter, and coconut oils! I tend to make a concoction for my skin to keep my skin up. Because of the swelling going on, the bruising, and then the colors. Like I fell and I still have that bruising on my legs. Every little thing you must be careful with. I have a huge mass on one of my legs. If I nick that or if it swells too much or starts to burst open, I’m about to leak fluid everywhere. After you bathe, make sure you lotion, like that, ’s important. Like going days without putting anything on your skin is detrimental, it’ll crack open, it’ll bust open. Then you’ll have to deal with discoloration and all of that. I have to cook seated in my wheelchair or on my walker. But there are times when I can’t get out of bed for days at a time. Let’s say the day before if I was really active, then I know I need two to three days to recoup. Because one, I’m going to wake up all bruised up, looking like a spotted leopard. Two, I probably can’t move. I’m going to have swelling. You desire to get up and do things, but your body is rejecting it as if it's saying “No”.

Then the pain is so bad sometimes that when I stand up, I break out into a cold sweat. I get hot, I get nauseous. You need those couple of days to regroup. But then it feels like you must learn how to walk all over again, but it's just muscle memory loss from being in bed for days. Some days it just sucks, like “Give me the phone, give me the computer. I’m in bed.” Just work on what I got to do and connect because if not, then it's excruciating. If my aid calls out or anything like that, then I’m on my own, and sometimes that can be scary. It’s not all that glamorous, it’s not all beautiful, cute, because it’s a lot to deal with. It is a lot. I don’t want people to really forget about that and some people don’t understand. Even from a mental health aspect, it’s a lot.

JH: So, what would you say to people with the same condition who just got diagnosed and are scared or confused or need some support? What would be your advice to them?

KB: I would say my advice to people who are just finding out would be that you need to find a support group, find someone who is going through the same thing you’re going through, who’s going to understand you, and go through your steps and be ok going through those steps. You’ve got the knowledge, so then you have to go through the point of denial like “No. This can’t be.” Then you have to go through your acceptance, then you must go through understanding like this is something you really have to deal with. This is in stages; it is a debilitating condition. So, get around people who look like you, who can understand you, who feel your pain. Because there are people that are around us that don’t. I really want to put forward that this is not a big people disease. Not all big people have this. Smaller people, thinner people have it as well, so it is not an isolated situation for people with size, shall I say. That’s what people think. I’ve seen a couple of people and I’m like “They might have it”. I say to myself, “Ooh, look at their legs. I wonder if they know? I wonder if they got it checked out?” Me, I go and ask; I talk to people. Because if you catch it earlier, then you can start treating it. I think it helps.

Instead of getting to the stage that I was at and it's like “That’s the end of the road.”

JH: I feel the same way. I was sitting next to somebody at church one day, and they had a mole in their hand. I was like, “Hey, have you had that checked out? You should really get somebody to look at that.”

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KB: I also tell people that for me I must turn to my faith because God brought me to it, He will definitely get me through it. A lot of people, and this is going to sound crazy as painful as this condition is and how hard it is to deal with, the worst thing people have to deal with is the disfigurement. How it looks, and how other people look at them. They become reclusive and stay in their house, they won’t come out, certain things they don’t want to wear, and they just don’t like their body which will bring down their selfesteem. They don’t like who they are, they don’t have acceptance. Some of them were ready to give up the ghost. Like literally.

JH: Because I think people can look at this condition in a judgmental way. They think that it’s your fault and that there is something that you did to make your body this way.

KB: They do; every day. And this is what I tell people in my support group. That’s what they’re going to do. People are going to be people regardless at the end of the day. So, you must understand that you cannot control what people say, think, feel and do. So, once you get that understanding you know that you control only what you think, say, or do. I also want them to think about it- stop and think about it; God has created you in His image. So, when you were created, it was all good baby. If God created me this way and this is what I am, I don’t have the authority to not be how I was created. So many people come to me from all walks of life and I deal with people who are ready to just give it all up, ready to take their life. I tell them, “You didn’t create you. So, you don’t have the authority to take you away. You don’t have the ability to take your life because you didn’t give yourself life.”

JH: Well, Amen.

KB: I thank God because you know, I pray, and I fast and I’m just trying to hear God when dealing with certain things because, for me, God is first in my life. Whomever you serve and whomever you’re dealing with that’s on you. And I’m talking about me, and the God I serve. I don’t know anything else. I’m just an old country church girl, getting old. If it’s in you, it’s gonna come out of you. So, that’s what I just want people to know, leave people in faith, tell them to believe in themselves, push themselves beyond their boundaries, and get around people that can support you.

Take your family with you. Like when I made my documentary, it was important for people to see that in my view. So, the people around you can understand what you’re going through. Because most people get tormented in their homes, in their own dwellings, most people get called the worst names and get treated the worst by the ones that love you the most.

Dr. Hagans: Wow! So, I know that there are going to be people who're going to read this interview and want to get in touch with you or want to follow you. So, how would people find you and find the support group?

KB: I can be found online on YouTube: Lippy Warrior! (Trina) Facebook Group: Lippy Warrior Support Group by Katrina Instagram: @bigbabytheboss

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NCFeature Fayetteville, NC

Quiana Watson Atlanta real estate broker Quiana Watson hails from Fayetteville, North Carolina, and currently resides in Georgia.

She is a graduate of Fayetteville State University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing. Shortly after, she obtained her MBA. She owns her own brokerage, Watson Realty Co. Her ability to successfully leverage her marketing and management expertise has been the key to her successful real estate career. . Quiana is renowned among colleagues and clients alike for her integrity, loyalty, and professionalism.

Quiana has been ranked in the top two percent of realtors according to the National Association of Realtors. Quiana is ready to show you the finest, most exclusive listings while being mindful of your own, style, taste, and needs."

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NCFeature Eden, NC

Tabitha Brown A small-town girl from Eden, North Carolina, Tabitha Brown is a Wife, Mom, Actress and Vegan food Influencer. Tabitha is known for her loving demeanor and her honest, viral, and comedic food reviews! She has been featured on GMA3 Strahan, Sara & Keke, Buzzfeed, Tasty, Now This Food, and Goodful just to name a few.

Millions of fans tune in weekly for her live cooking shows on Facebook, quick recipes on Tik Tok, funny stories, and inspirational posts on all of her social media platforms!

She is a Brand Ambassador for Whole Foods Market Plant-based Living and is responsible for making the TTLA sandwich go viral and become available worldwide! As an actress Tabitha has had multiple TV and Film appearances such as The Ellen Degeneres Show, (NBC), Will &Grace, Bounce TV’s Family Time & Stone Cold Christmas, (Netflix) Freeform’s Switched at Birth, and I am Still Here(Now playing on Amazon Prime).

While all of these accomplishments are great Tabitha finds the most JOY in simply spreading love and light to all and helping others see the world and food differently! She travels the country speaking at different events sharing her story of how going Plant Based saved and changed her life! Her prayer is that God continues to use her to help people all over the world!

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Women Who Lead

Dr. Karen Roseboro Educator. Scholar. Survivor.

By Sharon H. Porter. Ed. D.

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Dr. Karen Morning Roseboro serves as the first Chief Officer of Choice and Magnet Schools in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School system. She is a product of the district, having attended Paisley Middle School and graduating from Mt. Tabor High School in 1995.

As Chief Officer of Choice and Magnet Schools, Dr. Roseboro is responsible for creating innovative and equitable school choice systems that ensure fair and informed school options for all students and their families.

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Dr. Roseboro received the Dr. Frances Jones Trailblazer Award, in January of 2022, given by the North Carolina Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (NCASCD). This award was created to honor and celebrate Dr. Frances Jones who retired as the Executive Director of NCASCD in April 2015.

Dr. Roseboro serves on the University North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) School of Education (SOE) Advisory Board. The Advisory Board is charged with enhancing excellence in the research, teaching, and service functions of the SOE and thereby strengthening its leadership in promoting UNC Greensboro as a leading studentcentered university.

Dr. Roseboro is celebrating five years as a breast cancer survivor and is a champion and believer in the power of early detection. Shortly after her diagnosis, she was connected to a breast health mentor. Roseboro says the mentor spoke life to her. She started to realize that her diagnosis was not a death sentence, she would survive this. Not long after the two met, Roseboro's mentor lost her battle. Roseboro created the Pink Morning Breast Health Network shortly thereafter, to put the ideas and thoughts of creating a breast health network that would help women know other women were thinking of them and supporting them while they navigated through breast cancer that she and her mentor discussed quite often. Pink Morning supports women of color who are living with the impact of breast cancer.

Dr. Roseboro will be a part of the Women in the City Official Ribbon-Cutting of the Women's Legacy Parade being held on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at Winston Square Park in downtown Winston-Salem.

Women Who Lead demonstrate strength, resilience, perseverance, tenacity, and competency. They have an unshakeable belief in themselves, are able to focus on achieving goals that they have set, and are able to build and lead teams. Dr. Roseboro embodies all of these qualities and more. And for this, Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media recognizes Dr. Karen Morning Roseboro as a Woman Who Leads!

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Visionary Author

www.womenwholeadanthology.com

3050 University Parkway | Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Follow Us @SimplySonyasWS

Carol Montague-Davis

Carol Montague-Davis retires and has ended her second stint at Carver High School with the WinstonSalem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Carver is one of the school district's most historic high schools. I just happen to be a proud graduate. She first served as principal at Carver from 20042008. She left to take an assistant superintendent position with WS/FCS. This is where I met Montague-Davis in 2011 when I relocated back to North Carolina from Maryland. She was the Assistant Superintendent of Middle Schools and became my supervisor when I was selected as principal at Kernersville Middle School. In 2017, Montague-Davis requested to return to Carver and once again serve as principal.

Under her leadership, Carver showed more growth than any other high school in WS/FCS and exceeded expectations according to the North Carolina Accountability Report. Montague-Davis brought the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism to Carver, the Academy of Information Technology, she helped establish a boys' soccer team for the first time in over a decade, there was an increase in enrollment in JROTC and attendance at football games increased. Montague-Davis launched the E-Cubed Program (enroll in a two-year or four year college, enlist in the military, or be prepared to be employed).

Carver High School, an Historical Black High School (HBHS) was the first high school to serve African American students outside the Winston-Salem city limits. The school opened in 1936 and was named after George Washington Carver. The first class of 18 students graduated in May 1939. The school became Carver High School in 1971 and has always been known for a strong marching band and chorus and an outstanding athletics program.

Carver is one of what is known as the "Big 4"---Four historically black local high schools: Atkins, Paisley, Carver, and Anderson. Shai Woodbury, former chair of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education and 1992 Carver graduate is one of the Big 4 organizers Students and alumni have always had a sense of pride for Carver. My childhood home is still on New Walkertown Road and until this day it is guaranteed that when it's game time, you will here the cheers of the crowd, the band and the excitement that comes with a football game. I personally want to thank Carol Montague-Davis for keeping the YELLOW JACKET PRIDE alive. We are CARVER NATION!

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When I hear from former students that attended Carver while Montague-Davis was principal, one theme emerges...she was relatable--down-to-earth.

I can attest to that as someone who worked under her leadership. I always felt she was able to assist through her lived-experiences.

Montague-Davis has served in education as a teacher, principal, and district leader that spans over a 40-year career.

Dr. Karrie G. Dixon, Chancellor of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), and a 1993 graduate of Carver stated "Principal Montague-Davis is a wonderful friend, sorority sister, and a mentor to many. I have been honored to be invited back to Carver by Principal Montague-Davis to share the commencement address on two different occasions and enjoyed returning to such a special place. Principal Montague-Davis is a proud ECSU graduate and as the Chancellor of ECSU we are so proud of her accomplishments and applaud her for her years of service to educating children."

I had an opportunity to speak with the new principal, Dr. Thyais L. Maxwell She says, "Carver High School is a gift and I believe in its history and the future of the school and community.

Transitioning in the middle of the year, was great.

Dr. Montague-Davis was supportive and informative; the students and the staff were eager and anticipatory; the community was inviting and engaging; it showed me what our possibilities could be....endless. We are Carver!"

Carol Montague-Davis, enjoy retirement. You have earned this time. We thank you for believing in Carver High School...TWICE! Follow Carver High School on Twitter @CarverHS_Nation

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Brittany Robertson Brittany Robertson is a proud graduate of the 2007 class at Carver High School. While at Carver, it was her World War II teaching project in AP U.S. History and the encouragement from Dr. Paula BoozerWilkins that solidified her desire to teach.

After graduation she graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte as a North Carolina Teaching Fellow in 2012.

Ms. Robertson began her teaching career in Wake County Public Schools. She continued teaching in Guilford County Schools and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.

May 2020 Ms. Robertson received her Master’s in School Administration & Leadership. As a MTSS Specialist, Brittany created systems of support for students in academics, behavior, and attendance in a pandemic. She created and implemented a school-wide weekly program where all teachers provided math support, created systems to track student engagement and parent communication, and oversaw the distribution and management of student devices in a pandemic.

In 2021, Ms. Robertson began her assistant principal career at Kiser Middle school.

Carver High School Class of 2007

Fond Memory: The annual Drug-Free cookouts were the best. The class of 2007 knew how to show up and show out, as we were the class who'd always win the class-off.

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Stephanie Smith Miles Stephanie Smith Miles is a boardcertified Nurse Practitioner, business owner, wife, mother, and former graduate of Carver High School. She graduated from Carver in 2006 and attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) initially before transferring to Winston- Salem State University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s in nursing degree in 2011.

She spent the next nine years working as a RN in the emergency department at Baptist Hospital, where she had the roles of charge nurse, triage nurse, and sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE).

In 2017 Stephanie enrolled at Walden University online to obtain her master’s in nursing and became an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (NP) in 2019. Her first NP role was at a private practice in Lexington where she worked for two and half years before opening the first blacked owned female IV vitamin hydration business in Winston Salem, IV SMiles Hydration & Wellness, PLLC. Stephanie is now starting the first direct primary care clinic, Smith’s Primary Care & Wellness, PLLC, in Winston Salem also.

Stephanie has a true passion for health and wellness, a heart of gold, a true calling for nursing, and absolutely loves taking care of her community.

Carver High School Class of 2006

Fond Memory: My most fond memories are centered around being a Sweet Stinger with the band. Performing for football games, basketball games, the local parades, and festivals, allowed for fun, friendship, exposure and support to and from the community. Great times that I'll never forget and often miss. (I still remember the stand routines and Mrs. Montague-Davis fussing if we shook too much) MARCH/APRIL

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Philishia David Philisha David is the proud mother of two beautiful girls.

She currently is a Banker with Truist in Winston Salem and aspires to become Branch Manager. She is a part of the “Ramily” legacy as she is a student at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), studying nursing.

During the day, she works in the banking industry and at night she is transformed into full glam! She has a passion for makeup! Her business is Beatz By Phi, which is the reason she is in school for nursing. Medical esthetics is something additionally, she would love to spearhead!

She’s a fitness junkie, a great cook, mom, and friend!

Since graduating high school she has been chasing her dreams like never before and this is only the beginning!

She loves to inspire women with a mentality of CONSTANT PERSEVERANCE! That no matter what cards you are dealt…”ALWAYS PLAY YOUR HAND WITH BEAUTY AND FINESSE!”

Carver High School Class of 2004

Fond Memory: My favorite times at Carver were during spirit week and our infamous talent show. It made the morale so high and everyone together like the family we were. The energy was always unmatched that people from schools all around wanted to be a part of the hive.

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Kameelah Parker Kameelah Parker is the owner and founder of Secu(HER) Bag L.L.C and Secuher nails by Wisdom & Jada vending machine. She is originally from Winston-Salem NC. Kameelah is a mother of four children and a published author. She enjoys devoting much of her time securing (HER) Bag and writing inspirational books that promote selfawareness for women in her free time. She realized at an early age she wanted to help other women. Enduring some of her own struggles with domestic violence as well as witnessing it gave her a deep passion for wanting to keep other women protected and uplifted.

Secu(HER) Bag is her way of making a positive contribution to a world filled with so much negativity.

In her words, “I can't save the world, but I will reach millions one bag at a time.”

Carver High School Class of 2004

Fond Memory: My days at Carver High School was so exciting. Every day was filled with excitement from math class with Ms. Woody to the Talent shows, to Football games and marching band performances that every one came out to see. Carver days were the best. We were LIT as the young kids say today.

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Latisha Coleman Based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Latisha Coleman is a 3-dimensional painter and graphic designer.

Known in the art world by Tish, she is also a freelance graphic designer. She earned both a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Communication Systems and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Arts and Design from North Carolina A&T State University. In addition to that, she earned a Master of Business Administration degree from The University of Phoenix.

Also an entrepreneur, Tish has operated her own graphic design business since 2017, specializing in brand creation, graphic design and marketing solutions for start-up and existing business owners.

Approximately four years ago, Tish found herself drawn back to producing the art that she was most passionate about. Finding the flexibility to create again, Tish says that her art reflects herself—and the most influential women and men in her life. Tish credits her family as a source of influence on her work, whom she describes as, “some powerful individuals, who have sacrificed, provided and instilled the importance of God and family.”

As a 3-D visual artist, Tish’s intention is to create art that gives tribute to all people of color and honors their flaws, insecurities, accomplishments, dreams, and aspirations. Tish’s art is the way she celebrates people of color. She loves the feeling that creating art gives her and strives to support the arts through her contributions to the local arts scene.

Through the exploration of various mediums and textures, Tish works to convey a message of strength, beauty, and resilience, adding depth to each piece. She uses the inclusion of hair extensions, floral, hair jewelry, and African print fabrics to highlight the uniqueness and elegance of each piece.

Carver High School Class of 2003

Fond Memory: Being apart of the best cheerleading squad ever! 1999 - 2003 MARCH/APRIL

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Krishaunda Penn Pearson Krishunda Penn Pearson was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Since she was five years old, she had one dream, to attend Howard University. In 2006 she graduated from Howard University with a bachelor’s in political science and history. While at Howard she felt the pull to education and decided to pursue a career in teaching. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she obtained her masters from Howard in elementary education.

In 2006 she started her career in education in Prince George's County, Maryland as a teacher and champion of math education. She transitioned to the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) in 2011 as a math teacher. Since joining DCPS she has received a master’s degree in Instruction and technology from Western Governors University, came out of the classroom to become a math instructional coach, and an instructional technology coach.

Early in Krishunda’s professional career she realized she had a passion for providing STEM opportunities to underrepresented minorities. She was offered the chance to establish an Engineering and Computer Science Academy for high school students at Columbia Heights Education campus.

She now serves as the founding Director of the NAF Academy of Engineering and the NAF Academy of Computer Science at Columbia Heights Education Campus in the DCPS. The academy has over 200 students, several partners, and is nationally ranked. She currently lives in Bowie, Maryland with her husband Christopher Pearson and daughter Erin Pearson. She says her life’s purpose is to expand the dreams of children.

Carver High School Class of 2002

Fond Memory: I think of my first day of 9th grade when India made me talk to her. I think of being in Marian’s backyard preparing to try out for the flag team. I think of marching in parades and dancing at all the football games. I remember gaining a lot of brothers and sisters, as an only child this was much needed. I remember coming home on Fridays after school to take a nap when everyone else would go to IHOP, it’s a reason they called me grandma. I remember laughing, talking, and working hard. I remember the joys and the letdowns in AP English. I remember growing in confidence and making the first steps in becoming me. I can honestly say my time at Carver was one of the main reasons why education and STEM became my passion. If I have never said thank you before I want to say thank you to all my friends and teachers at Carver Nation for playing a role in helping me discover who I am. So, when I say Jacket Pride, I mean it.

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Marian Wilkins Marian Wilkins, a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina is an educational leader and author who recently transitioned to the Washington, DC area (DMV) in 2015. Currently, Ms. Wilkins serves as an Assistant Principal of Mathematics at Brookland Middle School in Washington, DC. As an Assistant Principal, Ms. Wilkins utilizes academic and attendance data to plan, support, and facilitate effective school and classroom level instructional planning through weekly professional development seminars and data analysis cycles.

Previously, Ms. Wilkins served as the Math Instructional Coach and LEAP Leader at Kelly Miller Middle School in Washington, DC. Beyond her school-based duties, Ms. Wilkins works with the DCPS Office of Teaching and Learning to design 6th grade math virtual curriculum and facilitate seminars for teachers and leaders. Ms. Wilkins also had the opportunity to work with Teach for America as a Secondary Mathematics Content Specialist. In this role Ms. Wilkins coached a group of first year Secondary Mathematics teachers from DC Public Schools and Prince George's County Public Schools. Ms. Wilkins led bi-monthly professional development sessions and coaching support centered around Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Mathematics. In 2019, Ms. Wilkins co authored a book entitled, North Carolina Girls Living in a Maryland World that shares the stories of six North Carolina Girls’ experience growing up in North Carolina and relocating to Maryland. We reflected on our childhood, college experience, and experience as adults in a new state.

Prior to her move to the DMV, Ms. Wilkins was a middle school Math and Social Studies teacher in North Carolina for nine years. At Kernersville Middle School, Ms. Wilkins served as a grade level chair and a member of the academic leadership team. Ms. Wilkins created the Ladies of Distinction (LOD) team, a performance art-based organization that served the community. These ladies were and currently are the only middle school color guard team in the district that performs for the school and the greater community. Each year the Ladies of Distinction would partner with a local sorority to complete their yearly community service project. In 2014, LOD partnered with the Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated to host a screening of Girl Rising. This film depicted the critical role education plays in the lives of young women across the globe.

The theme for the month was, Girls Rising above their circumstances both locally and globally. The quote for the month was “An educated girl can empower herself, lift her family, help her community, change her country.”

Ms. Wilkins received her bachelor's degree from North Carolina Central University in MiddleGrades Education, Math and Social Studies. Her masters degree from North Carolina A&T State University in Special Education and her Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University. Currently Ms. Wilkins is participating in the DCPS Leadership & Innovation Program for Assistant Principals at Georgetown University.

Carver High School Class of 2002

Fond Memory: One of my fondest memories from Carver High School is performing under the Friday night lights at David Lash Stadium as a member of the high stepping Marching Yellowjackets flag team. Oh, to be a Flag Diva at CHS was everything. Mrs. McKoy, Ms. Angie, and Mrs. Hall gave me an opportunity and it changed my life.

From the daily practices, Thursday night performance checks, sheer to the waist stockings, blue and gold sequence uniforms, nights we spent making our tassels for our boots, and from the moment the drum major called us to attention, the band was EVERYTHING! MARCH/APRIL

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India N. Reaves Tenacious. Determined. Strong. Tough. Just as these attributes apply to Watty Piper’s The Little Engine that Could, these are also characteristics used to describe India N. Reaves. Having faced many obstacles in life – from losing both of her parents just 16 months apart to surviving unhealthy relationships, – she has an incomparable will to keep pressing forward, overcoming any situation, and defeating all odds.

India has learned the importance of a balanced work ethic and as a talented author and empowerment specialist, transcends every race, culture, and career. Her unique delivery style and powerful messages has afforded her the opportunity to serve as the commencement speaker for Carver High School’s 2015 graduation as well as design the curriculum for and facilitate professional development seminars for major childcare centers in Winston-Salem to assist in rebranding their business for exceptional success. Speaking at conferences, church leadership assemblies, and education gatherings, India is quickly building a name as one whose messages invoke hope, faith, and confidence for all to pursue their very best life.

India released her first book, “I’m T.O.U.G.H.“ which stands for “Tackling Obstacles and Unleashing God‘s Hope.“ I’m T.O.U.G.H. is a 60 day devotional designed to firmly establish you using simple biblical principles.

In November of 2014 India debuted her blog site, www.imtoughenough.com and is currently working on the follow up book to I’m T.O.U.G.H. India is a 2002 graduate of Carver High School.

After graduating from Carver, she received dual degrees in History Education and Criminal Justice. She is currently a Secondary Social Studies Teacher with the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School district and has been for 14 years.

Carver High School Class of 2002

Fond Memory: One of my fondest memories of Carver High School is the Friday night football games! I was a member of the Marching Yellowjacket band and I absolutely loved marching into David Lash Stadium on Friday nights to a sold out crowd! I loved the fans, the competition, and the overall sense of community! You really had to be there to understand!

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Dr. Karrie G. Dixon Dr. Karrie G. Dixon was named 12th Chief Executive Officer and 7th Chancellor of Elizabeth City State University on December 14, 2018. Prior to her appointment as interim chancellor on April 9, 2018, Dr. Dixon served as co-lead on the ECSU New Directions Phase 2 Operational Team since early 2017.

Dr. Dixon has served as a senior administrator at the University of North Carolina System since 2008. In 2014, she was promoted to Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Dixon was responsible for overseeing the Division of Academic and Student Affairs for the System’s 17 institutions. During her tenure, she was responsible for providing Universitywide guidance for policy that shapes the work and practice within academic and student affairs divisions.

For nearly 10 years, she has provided the UNC System office with her expertise in academic policy, while leading various student success initiatives and managing processes to increase student access, enrollment, retention and graduation rates. She has fostered innovative collaborations among the UNC System, the NC Community College System, the state's independent colleges and universities, and the NC Department of Public Instruction and has been instrumental in leading multiple projects and policy changes that have greatly impacted students in the University of North Carolina System and statewide.

Dixon also served as the Chief Student Affairs Officer for the UNC System, working closely with Vice Chancellors for Student Affairs and other University leaders on efforts regarding community college transfers, enrollment and minimum admission requirements, campus safety, and military student success. Statewide programs, under her direction, included the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) Pathways and the federally-funded NC State Approving Agency. Over the years, her research and scholarly presentations focused on summer bridge programs, transfer articulation and strategies for student success.

Dr. Dixon holds a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina (NC) State University, a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a doctorate from NC State. She and her husband Devi have two daughters.

Carver High School Class of 1993

Fond Memory: I truly enjoyed my time as a Carver High School Yellowjacket! Some of my fondest memories are of being a varsity cheerleader and being crowned as homecoming queen. My time at Carver and the relationships I made there have been instrumental in the decisions I have made to pursue a career in higher education. I will always be a Yellowjacket!

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Shai Woodbury Shai Woodbury is a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She is the daughter of Patricia Switzer and Arthur Woodbury. She has two sisters, Johnetta and Tamatha, and three brothers, Sam, John, and Arthur Jr. She graduated from Carver High School of WinstonSalem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) in 1992. She graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1996 and completed graduate degrees from North Carolina A&T State University in 1999 and 2006.

Shai Woodbury believes that every student can succeed! With over 20 years of educational experience in secondary and higher education, she has worked to serve other teachers and students.

She is a licensed highly qualified teacher and administrator in the state of NC and Instructor of History at NC A&T State University. She is also certified as a Priority School Leader through the Principals' Executive Program of the Kenan-Flagler Business School as designated by the state to transform failing schools. Since 2007 Shai has worked successfully with low-performing schools to make sure all students succeed.

Shai Woodbury is an active servant in the WinstonSalem community. She has served on the city's Mayor committees, Winston-Salem Foundation Scholarship committee, President of the Carver High School Alumni Association, and the advisory board of the Naomi Jones Resource Center to name a few.

She helped to start the Community Coalition for Equity in Education. Initially, this group organized around the 2016 education bond and ultimately morphed into a group that focuses on equity in education. She also was also instrumental in starting the cause of Action 4 Ashley, which became Action4Equity.

She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She currently serves as the Vice-Chair of Triad Cultural Arts Board of Directors. She was the first African American to Chair the WSFC Board of Education. She served as the Chair for three years.

Carver High School Class of 1992

Fond Memory: I enjoyed the family- feel at Carver. The faculty and staff really cared about the students well-being.

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Trina Dunlap-Sampson Trina Dunlap-Sampson is a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina where she attended and received her High School Diploma from Carver High School (19841988).

Trina went on to attend Winston-Salem State University, where she received a double degree in Music Education and Mass Communication (TV & Radio Broadcasting).

Trina married her now husband Sean Sampson on October 23, 1999.

In October of 2007, Trina decided to go back to school where she then received her Master in Business Administration (emphasis in Marketing) in 2010.

In March of 2012 - Trina and Sean adopted their daughter Aleah, who has completed their family circle.

Carver High School Class of 1988

Fond Memory: The class of 1988 was like a BIG family. We all supported and cheered each other on in accomplishments and shared our downfalls, but were always lifted up.

I remember my most memorable day at Carver was being chosen to sing at our Class Day Ceremony (in which I was the first person on the program). I was so nervous but yet so eager to share my gift in song to my graduating classmates. The song I song was 'Where do we go from here" by the Winans. This song was selected to inspire my former classmates - that we could do anything we set our minds to do, as long as it was directed by God. MARCH/APRIL

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Dr. Anita Timmons Anita Timmons was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina by her wonderful parents Bradley and Doris Timmons. She graduated from Carver High School in 1988. After high school, Anita completed her undergraduate studies in Electrical Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University and her master’s degree in Information Assurance with Capella University.

In 2009, she was hired by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) where she works as a Chief Systems Engineer supporting the Department of Defense.

In 2017, Anita completed her final educational milestone and became Dr. Anita Timmons with a Ph. D. in Systems Engineering from The George Washington University (GWU) in Washington DC. Currently, Anita resides in Woodbridge Virginia where she is active in the Northern Virginia NC A&T Alumni Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

She has three beautiful dogs (Scottie, Bella, and Azul) who keep her active on the walking trails.

Finally, She gives God the credit for all her life and career success.

Carver High School Class of 1988

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Lanita Rae Cromer Lanita Rae Cromer was born in Forsyth County, Winston-Salem, North Carolina On April 12, 1969, to Ray & Juanita Cromer. She attended Oak Summit Elementary (K-6), Mineral Springs Jr. High grades (grades 7-8), and Carver High (grades 912). She is a part of the Class of 1987. Lanita was very active in the Army JROTC program and in Coop Business Administration. She gives great credit to the staff at the home of the "Yellowjackets" Peggy Witherspoon, SGM Kirby, Col. Rybat, Renee Schmidley, Mr. Vic Johnson, Coach Alfred Poe, and Mrs. Pauline Davis at Oak Summit.

Further studies were placed on hold to be a caregiver to four family members with terminal illnesses. She chose to work in transportation for 15 years and has raised a family of two daughters, Amanda 29, and Heather 24. For 10 years she took the task of Building Maintenance at her local/home church, New Friendship Baptist Church. At the present time, she is helping to raise her four-yearold granddaughter, Haven Rae "Moop Moop."

She puts her heart and soul into the community with many needs, assisting homeless residents and inhouse mentally challenged adults throughout the city. She assists Art Vaughn Green with "Friends Helping Friends" events at Bethesda Homeless Shelter" contributing with cooking from "Brown Sugar's Kitchen." Her passion extends even into helping the youth in our community and city of Winston Salem and surrounding areas.

Additionally, she works with Antonio "Tiny" Stevenson with "My Brother's Second Chance" as a mentor. As time allows she assists in mentoring with Polish for Girls with Kendra Marie. Lanita's goal is to give with a humbled heart. To make great changes with an abundance of strength. Doing so shows greatness in leadership. By starting one step at a time with one child at a time. Lanita states... "Together we are stronger no matter what our struggles and challenges may be in our lives.

We need each other at all times. Everyone has a purpose in life. And we must help strengthen one another for all our callings."

Carver High School Class of 1987

Fond Memory: The day of graduation for the Class of 1987. Together we weathered our first storm as adults literally. Encouraging words of wisdom were spoken to us by Denise Franklin of WXII NEWS 12. To this day, I have very actively used it from that day forward. I listened to great advice that carried out a lifetime. I've cherished ever since.

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Sonya Powers Wadell Sonya Powers Waddell is the owner and operator of Simply Soul Restaurant and Catering, Simply Sonya's Restaurant, and Simply Living Family Care Homes LLC, an assisted living community located in North Carolina.

She is the mother of two beautiful children, Jimmie and Joi and grandmother to Brayden.

Sonya was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and is a graduate of Carver High School, Class of 1987.

Her love for serving others directed her path into the restaurant/catering business as well as taking care of the elderly and handicap. Sonya’s future aspirations include opening more assisted living homes.

Carver High School Class of 1987

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Karen Pegram Fishel Karen Pegram Fishel is a 1987 graduate of Carver High School. During her four years at Carver, she was very active in many clubs and organizations such as Anchor Club, Latin Club, National Honor Society, Yearbook and Cheerleading. After graduation from high school, she attended and graduated from North Carolina State University with two degrees, Animal Science and Agricultural Business Management.

Karen was accepted into the graduate program at High Point University where she graduated with a Master of Science in Business Management. She then began her career in the field of Human Resources. She achieved her Senior Professional of Human Resources accreditation (SPHR) in 2004.She has led organizations in both the private and public sector including Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, Guilford County and Furnitureland South, where she currently serves as the Executive Director of Human Resources.

Karen is passionate about building phenomenal cultures in companies as well as creating pathways for women to excel in organizations. She founded upLIFT Women’s Leadership Circle with her current employer. upLIFT provides a platform for all ladies to mentor, be mentored, share without judgment and be unapologetically authentic. The group, while supporting women within the organization, also performs many philanthropic activities in the community supporting other women and children based needs. In addition to her current employment, she also serves on the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Friends and Alumni Board at North Carolina State University as well as the NCSU Employer Advisor Council. She is also a member of the Triad’s Women in Motion organization and serves on the grant selection Board. She is a 2022 nominee for the Triad Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business, to be determined later this spring.

In 2017, Karen’s then 16 year old son was involved in a tragic bull riding accident. This pivotal life event led her to author and publish the non-fiction, faith based novel Say I Won’t. She conducts many speaking engagements throughout the year at churches, social circles and other clubs and organizations sharing her journey and testimony from this accident. Her novel is available in print as well as audible and has been sold and downloaded throughout the country.

Karen and her husband also own and operate a beef cattle operation, Windmill Acres Farm. In addition to raising and exhibiting champion cattle, they sell their farm raised beef product locally and in surrounding states.

Carver High School Class of 1987

Fond Memory: I have so many fond moments, it's difficult to select just one. I tried to involve myself in many activities, but my favorite was as a Carver cheerleader. My most favorite memories are spending our summers fundraising so we could have nice uniforms (we were a new high school with no funds for this), attending and competing at cheerleading camps and Friday nights in our brand new stadium cheering. We had such amazing school spirit and pure love for our classmates.

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Dr. Sharon Hargro Porter Dr. Sharon H. Porter (Dr. Sharon), a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and a proud 1987 graduate of Carver High School, is an educator, author, publisher, and host. She is the President of SHP Enterprise, the umbrella entity for Perfect Time SHP LLC, Book Publishing Firm, SHP Media and Broadcasting, and Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media, LLC. She is the Executive Director and Founder of The Next In Line to Lead Aspiring Principal Leadership Academy (APLA), where she trains, mentors, and coaches assistant principals from across the U.S. who desire to take the helm as principal.

Dr. Sharon is owner and Editor-In-Chief of Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media™and is the host of The I Am Dr. Sharon Show. She is a founding partner and VicePresident of Media and Communications for WNM Ventures LLC. She also currently serves as an elementary school principal in Maryland.

Dr. Sharon is a graduate of Howard University, Walden University, Johns Hopkins University, National-Louis University, and Winston-Salem State University. She is a participant in the 2019 Harvard University School of Education Women in Leadership Cohort, a School of Education mentor for Johns Hopkins University, and a Walden University Alumni Ambassador.

She is a member of the Forbes Coaches Council, International Association of Women (IAW), American Business Women's Association (ABWA), Professional Women of Winston-Salem (PWWS), and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She serves on the Board of Advisors for The Women of Prince George’s and Envision, Lead, Grow (ELG), Inc, and is a part of the Executive Team of Black Women Education Leaders (BWEL), Inc., serving as National Secretary.

Carver High School Class of 1987

Fond Memory: I loved playing volleyball at Carver. We had such talent and a lot of heart! After our sophomore year, school boundaries changed and many of our classmates attended and graduated from East Forsyth. From 1985 until present, you can catch the Class of 1987 (Carver & East) together!

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BOOKTALK Women Who Lead In Law Contributing Authors:

Women Who Lead In Technology Contributing Authors:

Nicole G. Ramón, Esq.

Dr. Jocelyn McDonald Alexis Nicole White Karen Walsh Laura Hart Dr. Sarah Thomas Dr. Sonja Jones Mandy Froehlick Kenyatta Powers-Rucker Chanel Johnson Patricia Brown Dr. Carol Gorst Foreword by Dr. Tracy Daniel-Hardy

Andrea L. Clark, Esq. Brittany Gardner, Esq. Ziara Rose, Esq. Rashondra Jackson, Esq

Publishing

Women Who Lead In Medicine

Women Who Lead In Real Estate

Contributing Authors:

Contributing Authors:

Dr. Courtney Yarbrough

Crystal Peace Mishonna Perry Jeanne Kelly Jenn Costigan Tahirah Stephenson Lauren Cohen Stacy Neir

Dr. Kimberly Braxton Dr. Antonia Neal Foreword by Dr. Jarita Hagans

Foreword by: Chairidee "Mrs. Mogul" ™Smith

Perfect Time SHP Publishing | www.perfecttimeshppublishing.com

Introducing..."Book Chat With the Baldwins"

We are a mother and daughter duo who love reading books. We both read books from every type of genre.

Reading has always been my favorite pastime since college and books continue to draw me in with promises of new adventures.

Before my daughter Lauren was old enough to hold a book, I was always reading to her. In fact, she was unable to fall asleep without me reading at least 5 books every night. This love for books has continued into Lauren's adulthood.

We began Book Chat with the Baldwins on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 15 days after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown and have continued to share every Tuesday since. While being locked in the house and working 8 hours every weekday, locked into a room working, I noticed after work how we both went into a quiet place to read until late into the evening. We decided to do something together to break up the monotony of our new normal. For fun, we jumped onto Facebook to share with our family and friends what we are reading and to encourage engagement and fun through reading.

Book Chat with the Baldwins is where we share what books we are reading, how we feel while reading our books, what we take away from the story upon completion of each book, and what excerpts we feel convey a message or generate intrigue and excitement for us and our fellow book enthusiasts.

We are excited and look forward to sharing with you, through Vision and Purpose Magazine, Book Talk and taking you on our journeys with characters and to places we've never been or imagined. A safe space to find enchantment or intrigue through the power of storytelling and of where the plot and characters take us.

We hope you enjoy the ride!

Becky & Lauren Baldwin MARCH/APRIL 2022 V&P MAGAZINE

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Now Available on Amazon

www.womenwholeadanthology.com

Credit: How Does it Really Work How Much Do You Know?

By Chanay Robinson, Credit Repair Owner/Operator

March is “National Credit Education Month”, so what better time, but I encourage you to not make this the only time, you fully educate yourself on how credit works, how it affects you, your family, your job, and/or even your business.

Secondly, you need to know what makes up your credit score, how it is calculated, how to raise it, and what you may be doing to actually ruin your own credit score!

1. There are five components that make up your *FICO® credit score. They are Payment History, Credit Usage, Length of Credit, Credit Mix, and last but not least New Credit.

2. Each component holds a percentage value that makes up 100 percent of the 550 points that you are responsible for in your credit score. Payment History is 35 percent of your FICO® credit score and is equal to 192.5 credit score points. Credit Usage is 30 percent of your score and is 165 points, Credit Mix is 15 percent and is 82.5 points. Then we have Credit Mix and New Credit both representing10 percent each of your credit score and equally 55 points for their areas of your FICO® score.

3. When you know the credit points that each section holds, then you will know how to increase your FICO® score, and ultimately win at the “credit game”. Here’s an example: You have four revolving credit card accounts, you miss a payment for 1 of those accounts, you lose 25 percent of the 35 percent in your payment history category. That means your score would drop about 48 points. But if you only have one revolving credit card account and you miss a payment, then you lose 100 percent in that 35 percent category, that’s all 192.5 points!!! Let’s face it, when you know the rules of the game, you know how to win at that game!

4. And believe it or not, there are things we do as consumers that actually ruin our credit without us knowing it or realizing it. Here’s a prime example: You opened your first store credit card when you were 20 years old, you are now 45 years old, and the company is now closed, and you have since paid off that card about five years ago. You have never missed a payment or defaulted on that account, but you figure since the store is closed and you haven’t used the card in five years, you would “just get rid of this account that is taking up space on your credit report”. You are successful in having that account removed and then all of a sudden, your credit score drops about 30 points or more. “What the heck!”, you shout, “why did my score drop?” You actually caused your score to drop by removing a POSITIVE account, even though it was closed. In trying to accomplish something good, you negatively affected your positive payment history and your credit length. It is things like this that we unknowingly do that cause us to ruin our own credit.

Next, I want you to “pull” your own credit report to see what is listed. I want you to take a deep dive into your credit story and see what type of picture it is a painting of you. Is this a true story or is there room for tweaks or correction? Is everything listed 100 percent correct? Did you know that you have rights, and you can challenge the incorrect or erroneous items that are listed on your credit report, no matter how small or insignificant it may appear to be? There are statutes and laws put into place to protect us against the large CRA’s and I encourage you to learn what are some of our basic rights as credit consumers are. Such as the right to have accurate information listed across the board from all of the major CRA’s.

And lastly, I challenge you to do something to better your knowledge of credit in general, but most importantly learn something new about your credit practices and what you can do to better or improve your credit situation. *FICO® is a registered trademark owned by the Fair Issacs Corporation, is an industry-standard & used on over 90% of lending decisions.

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How I Use Technology To Make An Impact

By Dr. Aikyna Finch, Guest Contributor My love for technology started when I was eight years old. My mother gave me a Tandy Computer. She sat me down, showed me how to turn it on and what to do, and left me to play. A few hours later, she realized she hadn’t seen me, and there I was still sitting where she left me coding away. That became my safe space, that thing I did well and enjoyed along with education. As I when through school, technology was there, but it wasn’t until college when my two loves came together, and it was a gamechanger. By the time I was studying for my Doctorate, I was working at an alternative high school, and teaching students with technology became part of my job. Because of the needs of the students, I realized that I was meant to use technology to make an impact. I didn’t know that was when I discovered my purpose, and everything after that became the building blocks to my greater.

What I thought would be a Nonprofit Charter School became two companies that make an impact through technology. So how did that happen? After I left the school, I went on to help soldiers find jobs after the Army. Well, this is when the journey with social media began. I was introduced to LinkedIn, and a coworker and I created a group to help our soldiers network with employers. From that group, jobs were found, connections were created, and the impact was made overall.

As I watched the group grow, I realized that there were so many people out there to be helped, and they can be reached easier with technology, in this case, social media. I created a class for the soldiers to brand and market themselves on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. The more I taught, the more I realized that I was developing a passion for social media.

After I graduated with my Doctorate and left my work the soldiers, I became a dean for a satellite campus. I needed professors so I went to LinkedIn to recruit. I made so many connections that LinkedIn took notice, and reached out with different beta opportunities. From social media, I started connecting with people that I could bring in as guest speakers, mentors, and faculty for my students. These connections motivated my students to reach higher heights in their careers.

When I moved to my second campus, I started doing training for the leadership of the satellite campuses in addition to my students and taught them about branding and presence online to make a difference while growing in their careers.

During this time I started my first company with a partner where the sole purpose was to expose people to information so they strive for greater and make a difference in their lives, community, and the world. We did it through a podcast that is still going to this day. Through the podcast, my brand grew and opportunities started to appear and so did the audience.

But then the shift came, before this point education was the forerunner in my life but in March 2015, I discovered Periscope and I made a profile and left until June while waiting for a Twitter chat to start.

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I pushed the “Go Live” button and the rest is history. People started coming on the screen and chatting and I started talking about why you should use Twitter chats. As I taught and saw the questions come on the screen and seeing how engaged they were I was hooked. I started a group to train new “Scopers” to go live and all the other features and functions of Periscope and other social media. Then I was training on social media while motivating the people to go after what they wanted out of life. Because of my background, I had so many different things I could cover so I became an influencer and I was all over including the Periscope Summit as a speaker. The people would reach out with their questions and the event organizers would reach out with their needs from this my coaching business was formed. I was able to Livestream about coaching topics in the arenas of sobriety, depression, career, education, and business. This started the events and traveling.

For years I would go to events and help with social media, Livestream interviews, or presenting. I was able to use my platform to expose my audience to many different topics that helped to open their eyes and change their minds through technology.

Then I did my own event in 2018, featuring Women in STEM and People of Color in Social Media that just need a seat at the table. That event was game-changing. Many of the connections that were made at that conference are still going strong today. This was a way to build connections and teach the audience how to get out there and make an impact in their way. I realized that I was watching the impact of technology on the world unfold in one room. The rest of the events have been online but it is now time to bring the community together again!

h inc F na y k Ai .

Dr

Going through a pandemic and being separated from people have given a new meaning to community and a new perspective on how technology will make an impact. Today I use technology to train coaches to get their certifications so they can make a bigger impact. I use technology to coach business owners on how they can put themselves out there in a way to make an impact on their current and future clients through social media and technology automation. I use technology to train Faculty so they can make an impact in their students’ lives. I use technology to produce podcast and video content to educate and inform people who are looking to create change in areas such as business, DEI, education, and social issues. In a time when we hear how technology is being used to impact the world negatively, make the choice to use technology to impact the world positively!

If you have questions about my work or my services contact me at hello@aikynafinch.com or on all social media at @dradfinch.

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Meet Dr. Essie McKoy Award-Winning Educator/Speaker/AwardWinning Podcaster/Consultant/Amazon 6Xs Best Selling Author Coach and Entrepreneur

By Sharon H. Porter, Ed.D.

Dr. Essie McKoy is the Lead Writer for Education

at Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine. Dr. McKoy received her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) and an Educational Specialist Degree (Ed. S.) in Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master’s Degree in Middle Grades Education from Appalachian State University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Special Education with certification in Learning Disabilities from Winston-Salem State University.

She has additional areas of certification in Public School Administration/Supervision/Principalship, Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in English, K-12 General Curriculum, and the Superintendency in North Carolina and Virginia.

She was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from WWMI Bible Institute and Seminary in Chicago, Illinois. She possesses expansive knowledge in primary, secondary, and higher education, and general and special education. Her dissertation topic, “A Study of Elementary Principals’ Perceptions of Accountability and Leadership in an Era of High Stakes Testing,” is a foundational part of her first book, “The Heart of School Transformation: My Journey into Transforming Urban Schools.”

She attended The Urban Superintendent’s Program at Howard University and The American Association of School Administrators and received the National Superintendent’s Certification.

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In addition, she attended Harvard University’s Public Education Leadership Project Program and many other leadership programs throughout the nation, including the Wake Forest University Leadership Program for Public Engagement, The Distinguished Leadership Program, and the Distinguished Leadership Program Digital Learning at North Carolina State University, The Principals’ Executive Program – Leadership Program for Assistant Principals at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received the Program’s Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and she graduated from the Principals’ Executive Program – Leadership Program for New Principals at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she received the prestigious Jack McCall Award. Dr. McKoy also attended the Mastering Leadership Dynamics Program with the BB&T Institute, as well as three other programs at BB&T. In addition, she was accepted into The National Scholars Honor Society. A highlight of her career is that she was selected by Winston Salem State University as the Education Alumni Achiever Recipient.

Her most recent professional development led her to become a member of The Leadership Academy in Virginia and she has engaged in “Better Communication” professional development with the well-known, Ann G. Hoffman. Dr. Mckoy believes that learning should occur throughout your lifetime and she continues to be involved in the latest growth opportunities to enhance her capacity.

She began her teaching career at an alternative middle school and later taught at a comprehensive middle school.

She has served as assistant principal at the elementary level before becoming the principal of two elementary schools. She worked as an instructor at the Math and Science Academy of Excellence at Winston-Salem State University, worked as an Adjunct Professor at NC A&T State University, ITT Technical Institute, and in the College of Education at George Mason University. Furthermore, she served as an Executive Director/Principal at the middle school level and has experience at the high school level as a Special Education Department Chairperson. Her experience spans from pre-K through college and she uses her experience and knowledge to continue to make an impact in the field of education! She served as the former Senior Executive Director of the DMV Mastermind Organization and cohost of EducationFIRST Radio Show with Urban Style Media in Maryland.

Dr. McKoy was nominated for the AASA Women in School Leadership Award with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. In addition, she received the Educator of the Year Award and The Executive Citation of Anne Arundel County Maryland Award and was honored with being COPA Style Magazine’s 2021 Woman of the Year. Dr. McKoy has been featured in K.I.S.H., BSM, SwagHer, Glambitious, UP WORDS (Edutopia), Powerhouse Global Magazine, She Speaks, and Vision and Purpose Lifestyle magazines. She has been a Top 40 Most Influential Dreamers Movers & Shakers with K.I.S.H Magazine! She has received many accolades and recognitions for her accomplishments throughout the span of her career and has been interviewed by a magnitude of radio show personalities throughout the nation and other countries.

Dr. McKoy is known as a transformational leader where schools under her leadership became Piedmont Triad Signature Schools- the highest growth schools! Her mission is to continue to ignite a passion in others and to make a profound impact in the field of education!

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18 She is the President and CEO of her own Educational Consulting Business, Dr. Essie Speaks. She travels the nation to do speaking engagements and is an Amazon 6Xs bestselling author.

She has written extensively and continues to contribute to a wide variety of nationwide writing projects. She has written as an author, featured author, contributing author, and a foreword author. Her books are: The Heart of School Transformation; My Journey into Transforming Urban Schools, Coaching Champions- How to understand the players before giving the plays; A Guide to Improvement and Success, two Women of Virtue: Walking in Excellence books, two Leadership Tidbits books, and The Grylfriend Code Sorority Edition, Vision and Purpose; Inspiring Our Community, Women Who Lead; Extraordinary Women With Extraordinary Achievements – Featuring School Principals, and Iron Sharpens Iron: Inspired to Achieve, Think, and Grow.

In addition, she continues to work in her area of expertise, school transformation for a local school district in the DMV and writes for Vision & Purpose Lifestyle Magazine! Furthermore, she is an awardwinning podcaster of her own show, “Dr. Essie Speaks Education, that airs each Sunday at 5:30 PM EST. Her podcast has received many recognitions for being number one, top seven, top ten, top twenty-five and Billboard 100! You may view all her podcast shows at www.dressiespeaks.com/podcast and tune in on Spotify, IHEART Radio, Sound Cloud, Blog Talk Radio, and Apple Podcast!

Dr. McKoy is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc. Her own inspiring quote is, “Education is HARD work, but it is also HEART work!”

She invites you to visit her web site at www.dressiespeaks.com and keep abreast of updates on all social media outlets.

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The HBCU ED Fest creates an opportunity for HBCU students majoring in education and HBCU alumni to secure new employment opportunities during the teachers fair. HBCU current and prospective students and alumni to learn from our guest speakers and panelists to grow as educators during the education conference and high school students to meet with school representatives during our college fair. The virtual event will take place on our platform EDCOM HQ. Educate ME is an organization founded and operated by HBCU alumni who understand how HBCUs help close decadeslong achievement gaps, providing opportunities that can advance our nation’s social progress and economic recovery.

Through teacher mentorship, partnerships, and professional placement Educate ME Foundation strives to inspire current educators and those majoring in education to encourage and empower the next generation of educators of color.

Sparking the continuum to begin again. Educate ME, partners, with teacher prep programs, organizations, and universities to ensure our recruited candidates can receive the proper training and support on the path to becoming a full-time certified educator.

Educate ME is hosting an HBCU Fest Education conference spanning over three days.

Day 1: April 19th (HBCU Education Conference Day) Day 2: April 20th (HBCU College Fair for high school students and universities) Day 3: April 21st (HBCU Teachers Fair for teacher candidates and schools)

The Educate Me Team Brittany Stephens Director of Community Engagement

Blake Nathan CEO/Founder

Board Members

Aaron T. McGee

Javaris Carrion

Justine Gonzalez Decari Middlebrooks Jummy Obayanju Jeremy williams

Visit www.educatemefoundation.org for more details MARCH/APRIL 2022 V&P MAGAZINE

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The 2nd ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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