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DAWN ARRINGTON PLACE-BASED STRATEGIES MANAGER ioby

SARA CONTINENZA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOOD STRONG

TELEANGÉ THOMAS CHIEF OPERATIONS & RELATIONSHIPS OFFICER, JUMPSTART, INC.

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Writers Shelley M. Shockley Marsha Walker Eastwood Brittany Garrett Rhonda Crowder

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Creative Belé Wondwossen Jason Garrett

Cover Story: Shelley Shockley Photo: Jason Garrett

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Contributing Writers Rhonda Crowder Michelle Phillips Fay Marianna Marron Letitia Nall Stephanie Phelps Kimberly Smith-Woodford

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From the Editor: Shelley M. Shockley

It's a new year, is there also a new you?

With the flip of a page, we have changed our calendars from December 2021 to January 2022. This is also the time that many prepare a list of Resolutions, the many bad habits we are going to wake up on January 1, 2022, and make a part of our history.

When you put that into perspective, the question should be why do we set ourselves up for failure. We are not going to miraculously stop eating sugar one day later and stick to it, because that is a holiday and what celebrations have you attended where dessert is not available?

I have never used resolutions to challenge myself in the new year, but in recent years I have set goals for the new year and not simple goals like “I'm going to lose weight this year.” The key to beginning to bring change into your life is to sit down and give it some serious thought. What is it you want to change? Is it realistic? How long will it take to achieve? These questions will help you to hone in on several things that can be accomplished over the next 12 months.

The work doesn't end there, now you have to list the steps to achieve the goals and add a timeline to each step. You may ask why do I need to do all of that? The purpose is to interlock large and small goals so that you can see progress. When you see that you have achieved a small task, celebrate that and be sure to cross it off of your list.

I have seen this work, but to be totally transparent I have not tried it just yet. What I have learned to do is choose a word to guide me, a practice I believe does help to bring about change. My word for 2022 is “intentional,” chosen so that when I show up for anything I want to know that it is intended to take place. It is also a way to minimize a lot of the multitasking we all tend to do on a daily basis.

Do you have a practice that you use to advance or enhance your life? I would love to hear about them so drop us a note and share your experience.

In this issue, we're talking to local women seeking to bring about change that will impact individuals and communities monumentally.

Let's first talk about Dawn Arrington a resident of Cleveland's Buckeye community, wife, mother, avid reader, and the Place-based Strategies Manager at ioby (In Our Backyards) a web-based crowd-funding 4 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

organization. Arrington is passionate about her community and is very familiar with the high rates of illiteracy in and around her community. Knowing what the percentage is may prompt concern and thoughts about how you can help, but when you're Arrington and you meet a member of your community struggling, you activate and develop a plan. Thinking back to her childhood and her journey to read, she recalled a love for comics and before long she developed Comics at The Corner. The concept is unique and may result in helping hundreds improve their reading skills. To learn more about Comics at The Corner, check out the feature on Dawn Arrington.

The next community focus is on food security where Food Strong executive director and founder Sara Continenza has taken the example set by her mom, a social worker, to lead her on a path to help the community through providing fresh, locally sourced food. Continenza's deep knowledge and experience on the benefits of consuming healthy foods coupled with the unacceptably low levels of access to them in our region convinced her to establish 'Food Strong.' To learn more about Food Strong and how Continenza developed this program while also serving as a South Euclid Councilwoman be sure to read the feature.

In our cover story, we introduce Teleangé Thomas the newly appointed Chief Operations and Relationships Officer for JumpStart. An Alliance, Ohio native, Thomas' story includes a strong introduction to community service and affecting change by her large extended family and a strong academic background of prep school and CWRU to help her impact the community beginning the healthcare space and now in the area of economic development and investment.

Her journey is inspiring and a good example of hard work and a vision.

Finally, if you use any social media platforms we're certain you have seen a post or two on large tips left by diners for great service, or out of a need to give back to the community. These are meant to be feelgood stories citing the kindness of Americans, but unfortunately, these posts are mean-spirited and lead to shaming well-meaning tippers. Columnist Marsha Eastwood offers insight on the practice and also the history of tipping. It's a good read that might make you think twice before leaving that next tip. The column also sheds some light on the decrease in customer service brought on by staff shortages.

We hope you enjoy this edition and we welcome your feedback.

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IT'S A NEW YEAR, IS THERE ALSO A NEW YOU? Shelley M. Shockley

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SOCIAL MEDIA TIP SHAMING AND YOUR WALLET Marsha Walker Eastwood

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5 TIPS TO ACE COLLEGE ENTRY EXAMS

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WALSH UNIVERSITY’S BLACK STUDENT UNION: ON A MISSION DRIVEN BY LOVE

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FEATURES

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DAWN ARRINGTON

TELEANGÉ THOMAS

To enhance the efforts of government organizations and nonprofits taking steps to help increase literacy levels, some women trailblazers have started implementing creative programs to advance these causes. Meet Dawn Arrington, a proud Clevelander, born and raised in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood who has made the fight against illiteracy her primary duty and lifting her community a life's mission.

The marriage of Jumpstart, Inc. and its newly appointed Chief Operations and Relationships Officer is one that seems destined to exist. On its website, the nonprofit is described as “an organization made up of diverse entrepreneurs, investors, and business experts who believe entrepreneurs—and innovation clustered in thriving ecosystems—can transform lives and communities.”

SARA CONTINENZA “Watching my mother help others less fortunate than myself, and be so loved and welcomed by those she worked with inspired me to pursue a life of helping others, too,” said Sara Continenza, founder and executive director of Food Strong, a non-profit organization whose mission is to 'strengthen and PAGE empower communities 12 through fresh, local foods.'

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Social Media Tip shaming and your wallet The advent of using social media platforms By: Marsha Walker Eastwood, to shame a variety of BsEd, MsHSVC behaviors is nothing PWM Contributing Writer new and no place for the onion skinned among us. From what we eat, how much we eat, what we drive, where we live to how we spend money can create a firestorm of insults, put into print by fingertips on fire, the words fly fast and furious with blatant disregard of the immediate and future impact.

I recently read an article in the New York Post about a diner tipping his server with a $25.00 Amazon gift card. His reason for doing so was that he was flat broke after dealing with Christmas. Although the value of the gift card far exceeded the customary 20%, there was a plethora of unsavory commentary posted on social media. Some commenters felt it was a cheap way to tip, while others felt that the gift card only benefited the server and not the other help who contributed to the overall dining experience, and of course the sarcastic comment about gift cards not keeping the lights on. Much of the significance of the gesture was lost on the “if it were me…” comments rather than the fact that the tipper is a 17-yearold young man who was out having dinner with his sisters and wanted to make a contribution to the tip. At some point during the tipping experience, the young man's older sister left a $15-$20 cash tip. Now the picture changes to what was better for the waiter scenario - the gift card which exceeded the 20% expected tip or the cash tip.

From a tax standpoint generally the person who receives the gift will not have to pay any federal gift tax on it or any income tax on it if it is less than $15,000. So, from a financial standpoint the cash tip was worth less than the gift card.

This is a classic example of how tip shaming can reduce the value of a tip. It is interesting to note that there is so much scheming and manipulating the whole point of tipping.

Long before the days of the pressure tank known as social media, the act of tipping was viewed as a notion of noblesse oblige, and a contributor to the centuries old class system which continues today. Beginning with the feudal master-serf relationship where a servant would be rewarded for exemplary service, the practice was expanded to include barkeeps, chamber maids and others paid pittances for their labors. Tipping found its way to the United States by Americans traveling abroad who considered the behavior the cloak of sophistication. That 6 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

aura of sophistication became part and parcel of a class system that continues today. Rather than pay service workers, the United States federal government minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, they use the formula of $2.13 an hour be paid to employees who receive at least $30 per month in tips. The owners, if wages and tips do not equal the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour during any week, is required to increase cash wages to compensate.

It is interesting to note how the idea of feeding the coffers of the poorly paid servants for jobs well done became an expectation. Not much has changed in today's society.

John Q. Public or Jane Q. Public are still expected to supplement the low paying jobs of food service workers by tipping, and that same expectation lends itself to an expanded expectation of tipping hairdressers, nail salon technicians, hotel staff including doormen, garage attendants, a variety of deliver drivers, and even the mailman if the tip is $20 or less.

In the article written by Samantha Ibrahim, a customer discussed their check from Applebee's in Staten Island last month that showed a person leaving a 9% tip. The check came to $73.45, and the restaurant asked for an 18% tip of $12.14 or a 20% tip of $13.49. The tipper left $6.55 because that is all he had. Of course, that incident met with a backlash of comments as well. The more I read the article the more I realized how some service businesses want to control and manipulate not only our wallets but our emotions as well. As I read some of the lengthier comments, I was reminded of two recent experiences my husband and I had at a local restaurant chain.

After months of being inside due to the pandemic we decided to go out to lunch. After arriving at the restaurant, I noticed two things, - no one was at the greeter station and very few people were sitting in the booths or tables but clustered at the high tables near the bar or seated at the bar. We were asked our seating preference and informed that booth or regular table service would mean an extended wait time to be served, whereas seating at the bar would be most expeditious, which it was not. My beverage which is normally iced was not, and when the food arrived, we had another wait for basic condiments.

After that we were virtually ignored. No beverage refills, no query as to whether everything was fine, just the presentation of the bill. Although the service was mediocre at best, my husband left the customary 20%.

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On our second visit several weeks later, I began to see a trend. The greeter station was staffed with not one but two employees, one doing the actual seating and the other killing time. After being seated in a booth, we waited about five minutes before we were presented with menus and asked for our beverage order. It took over ten minutes for a wait person to approach the table. She took our beverage order and food order at the same time. It took another ten minutes to get the beverages. We ordered an appetizer and it arrived with no plates or napkins, so we cut up the fried onion rings and ate from the server plate.

After fifteen minutes, I asked another wait staff member about refills. We waited so long I went back to the greeter and explained the situation.

During this time, our wait person was seen standing by a wall doing nothing, sitting at a barstool, all the while we were waiting for refills and our food. I finally requested to see a manager. A cook emerged from the kitchen who gave a long speech about staffing and all. Twenty minutes later, I had to once again approach the greeter to get the bill. At this point a tip was the furthest thing from mind.

Whatever amount they envisioned me leaving was not going to happen and I paid the bill and left nothing. The act of tipping in a dine-in restaurant should be a gratuity left for good or outstanding service delivered by people who actually like their jobs or have learned the fine art of putting on a happy face, and not money left behind, just because. While many restaurants and catering companies stated tipping requirements for groups of people, usually 6-8 or more, this is made known at the time of the reservation or posted near the greeter station or register

before anyone is seated. The reason for this is in case at the end of the meal the guests are trying to decide their share while divvying up the bill.

The newest ridiculous tip shaming issue is with food delivery drivers. Apparently, people place orders with a specified tip amount and then change their minds when the food is delivered, invoking the ire of drivers who often take matters into their own hands by either eating the food themselves or making a very delayed delivery. For social media tip shamers, this is exactly the fodder they grind their fingertips on.

In this scenario the first thing that comes to mind is why are customers expected to tip for a service not yet rendered? The caller has no idea what condition the food will arrive in or if it will arrive at all. However, the intimidation factor is in full force from the time that order is called in, and there is a difference between a stated delivery fee amount and an additional tip request amount.

This revisits why delivery drivers should be paid a reasonable wage with the knowledge that it may or may not be supplemented by the generosity of customers.

Also, many customers may want to leave more or hand it to the driver themselves.

Social media is a terrible place to air a grievance of any sort, especially hot button social and financial issues. It is like a runaway jury with no direction, and it should never decide the right or wrong way to manage money, even something as innocuous as tipping. <

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Dawn Arrington

USES COMICS TO COMBAT LITERACY ThinkImpact, an education and career research organization reports on average, 79 percent of U.S. adults are literate leaving the remaining 21 percent as illiterate.

Additionally, 54 percent of adults have literacy levels below the 6th-grade. These low levels of literacy cost the nation up to 2.2 trillion per year taking a heavy toll on the economy.

While the state of Ohio's literacy rate of 90 percent fares better than the national average, some neighborhoods in the Cleveland area are faced with unacceptably low literacy levels in need of urgent attention and action.

To enhance the efforts of government organizations and nonprofits taking steps to help increase literacy levels, some women trailblazers have started implementing creative programs to advance these causes. Meet Dawn Arrington, a proud Clevelander, born and raised in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood who has made the fight against illiteracy her primary duty and lifting her community a life's mission.

The neighborhoods of Mt. Pleasant and close-by Buckeye (where Dawn currently resides) reveal some of the highest illiteracy levels in the nation. “The neighborhood is mostly black and mostly poor and has an illiteracy rate of nearly 8 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

90%. On a day-to-day basis, it means that 9 out of 10 people that you encounter in that community cannot read nor comprehend above a second grade reading level,” Dawn said. “It means that people from that neighborhood are struggling to understand the label on the prescription bottle, or can't follow a bus schedule to get to employment, can't support their children with their homework, or have no idea what their housing rights really are. However, these people are resourceful, smart, intuitive, and have been figuring out life for a long time.”

In late 2017, Dawn was struck when she saw a mechanic who repaired her family's car window couldn't properly fill out the receipt. Again she said, in early 2018, “our family like many went to see Marvel's Black Panther and during the movie, there were subtitles and all I kept thinking about was how such a moment of pride for people that look like me, that have shared connections to the African diaspora, may not be fully enjoyed by many in my own neighborhood.”

These encounters inspired Dawn to do something and while she was contemplating her ideas to fight illiteracy issues in her neighborhood, she was reminded of her own childhood experience.

Dawn said, “I knew I had to do something and then it hit me that comics played a super important role in my learning how to read. As a child I would lay the Sunday paper out on the living room floor and read the funnies over and over again. I couldn't read all of the words when I was younger but that didn't stop me from looking at the drawings and trying to figure out what was happening.”

She figured out that “even if people can't read the words, the pictures tell a story too, sometimes more so.”

The creative Dawn connected the dots that led to the birth of Comics At the Corner. Through Comics At The Corner, Dawn strives to put culturally relevant and representative comics in the hands of as many of her neighbors as possible. Availing comic books with African- American main characters is a creative way to boost literacy levels.

She noted, “Comics At The Corner strives to combine my personal love for comics, reading, and passion for literacy together to address community illiteracy in the neighborhoods I grew up in and currently reside.”

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and two masters' degrees (an MBA and an MA in English and Creative Writing,) Dawn also serves as Place-based Strategies Manager at ioby (In Our Backyards,) an online crowdfunding platform. ioby whose mission is to 'mobilize neighbors who have good ideas to become powerful civic leaders who plan, fund, and make positive change in their own neighborhoods,' gives local leaders the ability to crowdfund the resources they need to build real, lasting change from the ground up.

As the Place-based Strategies Manager, Dawn is responsible for the City Action Strategist Team as well as implementing strategies in cities and regions that may want to invest in a deeper relationship with ioby and its platform.

Residents and civic leaders use the platform to crowdfund for projects that have a community/public benefit. Dawn has also used the platform twice to raise money to purchase comic books for her 'Comics At the Corner.'

Tackling the complex issues of illiteracy seeks comprehensive and well- rounded solutions, which is contrary to the beliefs of some, who assume that building facilities and making them available will increase literacy levels. According to Dawn, building facilities is only part of the solution. She said, “it can't simply be a 'if we build it they will come' mentality. We can't assume that if we throw money at an issue it will be solved – because so far that hasn't happened. We have to meet people where they are. We have to put things in front of them that they will want to read; like comics with black and brown main characters.” She continued, “Most literacy programs are centered around GED and job attainment and that is for sure needed. But what about reading for fun? What happens when a person is in the movies and subtitles come up? The experience isn't the same or there are some who won't go at all. I couldn't imagine my life without a trip to the theater and some buttered popcorn. It's a simple enjoyment that I often take for granted because subtitles aren't a barrier for me. We will live in a just and equitable world when that holds true for everyone.”

Dawn, who always makes community issues central to her work, was also surprised to see that no one in her neighborhood except her was decorated to hand out candy for Halloween. Studying what steps to take, she noticed that her congregation hosted a truck and treat event in the parking lot and thought that could work in her neighborhood. She reached out to another neighborhood member who had the same idea. “The first year about one hundred people showed up. We reached out to other neighbors from the community and decorated the trunks of our cars. It's grown exponentially since.

The last two years in addition to the candy and comics we've been able to secure personal and household cleaning items.” She continued, “This year I think 100 households were served. It's nice when the adults get into it. They're always so surprised when we offer them treats and family care items too, and everyone gets a comic book!”

Dawn's work has been self-fulfilling. When asked how she evaluated her journey so far, she said, “I do what I do because I love my people. I was raised to believe in service and stepping up. For me it's not about a title or clout chasing. Sure, I want to be appreciated for my efforts, we all should want that – to be valued – however I stay above the mess by remembering that this isn't about my next career move or being granted some false sense of power and or authority. I do this work because I know that small is big, the power should always be with the people, and I'm not special. Anyone who desires to do something should be able to do it and receive the support to get it done.”

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Dawn is grateful to the support she receives from partnership organizations to accomplish her goals. She cited The Collective, an initiative of Neighbor Up for supplying her with PPE and personal care items; Cleveland Neighborhood Progress for printing flyers for Trunk or Treat; and Carol and John's Comic Shop for supplying her with comics. She is also thankful to the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church and Pastor Hall for availing the location to hold her event.

While Dawn has put in a lot of effort towards meeting her goals, she concedes that she couldn't have achieved this level of success without a support system that guided her journey. She singled out her mom as her foundation, the influence on her value system. “My mom raised me and my siblings as a single mom but through her I learned the value of forging community focused relationships with neighbors.” Dawn continued, “even though I don't live on the street I grew up on, I'm still connected to people I grew up with. My mom also served in the military and is one of the most talented people I know. I see her in the people I'm committed to serving.”

In addition to her numerous responsibilities, Dawn supports the mission of other non-profit organizations.

She serves on the boards of Larchmere Porchfest, Literary Cleveland, Cleveland Leadership Center, and new start ups, Mantles and Makers and Dunnican Foundation.

For her contribution to the well-being of the community, Dawn has received various recognitions and awards.

Recently, MetroHealth honored her as a Community Shero for her 'outstanding effort, dedication, tenacity and passion for making the world a better place.'

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With all of these responsibilities, how does she balance her career with her personal life? Dawn said, “Balance isn't a linear thing! I keep a paper planner to help stay organized and I believe in boundaries. And by boundaries I mean I have no problem saying “hey I'm at capacity right now, or I can't attend this meeting, or I'm prioritizing my family. It doesn't always work out and I can easily feel overwhelmed. That's life I guess, but I'm learning how to keep it all together by taking morning walks with my husband, staying in touch with my therapist, and carving out time to with our kids on their terms.”

Her message to young girls, “I'm a mom to two wonderful children a 12 year old boy and almost 14 year old girl. I have to remind myself that when I was their ages, I thought the world was against me too. It's tough for young people and for some, like our girls navigating a world that tries to get in their way, it's really tough,” she said. “So when you are feeling down or like no one understands you, remember that we actually do and that you are enough. There's no shame in saying your best today is not what it was yesterday because tomorrow is just around the corner and who knows what that will be like.”

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Sara Continenza EMPOWERS COMMUNITIES THROUGH FRESH, LOCAL FOODS

Family Science. Following her graduation, she joined the Peace Corps and spent two years in Burkina Faso, West Africa serving in the sector of Female Empowerment and Education. After completing her assignments in Africa, she returned to the US and worked at Citizens Academy charter school.

“Watching my mother help others less fortunate than myself, and be so loved and welcomed by those she worked with inspired me to pursue a life of helping others, too,” said Sara Continenza, founder and executive director of Food Strong, a non-profit organization whose mission is to 'strengthen and empower communities through fresh, local foods.'

Sara, who was raised in Cleveland's Eastside Suburb of Woodmere and went to Orange High School, enjoyed a good education but also faced some challenges. Unlike her school peers who came from upper middle class, white collar homes, Sara was brought up in a middle-class, blue collar home. As young students, Sara and her brother never expected these 'class differences' to be an issue but as it turned out they were often treated cruelly for no fault of their own.

Her mom, a social worker, kept her children close, ensured they saw the bigger picture and set them up for success in life. She also took the children on home visits to her client's homes where Sara and her brother had lifechanging experiences. Of this, Sara said, “We would go and see insects and rodents in others' homes, and saw firsthand what it looked like to not have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. This ultimately humbled me and made me realize just how lucky I was to never go without, even if I was made fun of at school for not having as much as others.”

Sara enrolled at The Ohio State University and graduated with a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Human Development & 12 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

Not long after her return to the US, Sara's desire to explore the world took her to Takaoka, Japan where she worked for two years, as a participant in the Japan Exchange and Training Program. There she planned and implemented ESL lessons, and also assisted other teachers in translation and lesson implementation.

Sara then got back to the US, and worked at Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland as Stay Well Project Manager, where she met a young lady who 'had never seen or heard of celery.' At that moment, “I became inspired to teach every young person in Northeast Ohio the importance of growing and eating fresh foods.” Sara said.

To broaden her knowledge and serve her community better, Sara enrolled at Cleveland State University and graduated as one of the top students in her class with a Master's in Public Administration and Certification in Nonprofit Management. In 2016, she established her firm, Whole Vision LLC, to improve public health through consulting services to different organizations. The company also undertook project management, grant writing, and program implementation activities.

While she enjoyed the work she has done, her passion lied in answering one important question, “What can I do to help fight food insecurity and more importantly what can I do to help communities gain access to healthy foods? “ Globally, food insecurity is a major issue. A recent report by the UN indicates that overall, more than 2.3 billion people (or 30 percent of the global population) lacked year-round access to adequate food. According to the

USDA, more than 38 million people in the US (about 10.5% of the population) were food insecure, positioning it better than the global average, but more work needs to be done to eliminate food insecurity. On the other hand, 54 million Americans don't have access to healthy foods.

Sara's deep knowledge and experience on the benefits of consuming healthy foods coupled with the unacceptably low levels of access to them in our region convinced her to establish 'Food Strong.'

“Ever since my experience in the Peace Corps, I have recognized how vital adequate access to fresh, nutritious foods is to our overall quality of life. American hunger is a different type of hunger - people can access things to eat, it's just most “food” nowadays isn't really food anymore.

People are overfed yet undernourished.” Sara said. “Japan is a tiny island that has figured out a way to nourish its residents with no issue, having one of the longest life expectancies on average than any other country. My travels, and my time at the Hunger Network, really furthered my passion for ameliorating food access issues (and the resulting health disparities they cause).”

Sara and her team have carefully designed and implemented programs to meet the goals of Food Strong.

Key programs of which include:

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Care-A-Van, a food-focused program that provides a variety of resources to those in need while fostering excitement over fresh, local foods.

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Care Strong Project events focus on offering free health screenings, education, and information to those who are less fortunate.

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Learning Gardens, to build a School Garden toolkit and curriculum based on Ohio's Learning Standards.

While our general population lacks access to a healthy diet, the situation with low income and minority communities is even bleaker. When asked how to create t ra n s f o r m a t i o n a l c h a n g e s , S a ra s a i d , “ Tr u e transformational change starts at the community level.

We need to prepare communities to be self-sustainable by educating youth and families on how to grow their own foods, where and how to access fresh foods, and to prepare them healthfully. Simply giving food to the hungry is very important for those in crisis, but is not a long term solution to the issue of hunger.” She continued, “By helping others to understand just how critical fresh food is for health outcomes and quality of life, we can start moving the needle. Furthermore, we must incorporate activities around entrepreneurship and workforce development into our educational approaches in order to offer others the tools they need to build their own wealth and keep it in their communities. This way, they will be able to afford the foods and activities necessary to be healthy all while meeting their other vital needs.”

To fulfill the objectives of all her initiatives, several individuals and organizations continue to support Sara's work and she appreciates their generosity. “Our Board has

played an important role along with our amazing volunteers and mentors. Each of our Board members donates their unique, amazing talents to help us grow. For example, President Nicole Salerno hosts our annual fundraising gala Cornucopia at Lago Custom Events, her events company, and mentors our entrepreneurial youth.

Vice President Joe Jerdonek, also President of the Coit Road Farmers Market, donated land at the Market's urban farm for our Learning Garden.” Sara said. “We bring in mentors and volunteer teachers to our educational programming and offer clinical services such as health screenings through our partnerships with the Case PA Program and the UH Department of Family Medicine.

Some folks donate their time, others donate resources or funds. Everyone brings their unique talents and strengths to our work, and together, we are unstoppable.”

Evaluating her self-fulfilling works with Food Strong, she said, “Even though I am only 3 years into my Food Strong journey, I consider the organization to be thus far successful due to the fact that we value collaboration. It has allowed us to do more with our limited resources while assisting other organizations in meeting their own goals.

We also place a heavy emphasis on community engagement, continually surveying our clients and students to make sure we are doing whatever we can to meet their needs.”

Sara also serves as South Euclid's Ward 3 Councilwoman since 2017, again representing and working for her community. Here her focus has been in youth development and recreation services, working closely with the City to enhance various recreation activities in the parks. “We are investing hundreds of thousands into our parks over the next couple of years to make sure there are activities for all age groups, including rehabbing our tennis courts for multiple uses, and building an adventure trail for biking, skating, skateboarding, and more, as well as making a portion of it ADA accessible.” She said. “I would say that one major challenge has been trying to balance all of the perspectives of my constituents and not allowing my personal politics or perspectives to steer my decisions. I was elected to serve my community, not elevate my own agenda. It is essential that I consider everyone's points of view, and not let my own biases get in the way.”

Sara appreciates the support and mentorship she received from her grandmother, Peggy Wisner, the first photographer for any press in Ohio for inspiring her to be the best she can be. Joining her grandmother are her mom and dad. “My mom's influence steered me in the direction of humanitarianism. My father, who didn't make it past 8th grade because he quit school to feed his family during the depression, was an entrepreneur, inventor, and even an elected official. He was a human calculator and man of many talents whose strength and grit helped me become the determined individual I am today.” Sara said. “Lastly, my friend and Care-A-Van Co-Founder Amy Budish has mentored me in my Food Strong journey, and even helped me name the organization.”

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Sara Continenza with board members of Food Strong

Given her work load, juggling work-life balance can be difficult but she said, “there is joy in every day because I am doing something that makes my soul happy, however I also recharge by making sure to take the time I need to travel, have adventures, go dancing with my friends, go hiking, and do art. It is essential we all take the time we need to pursue life's pleasures in order to reinvigorate our souls so that we can keep doing the work we love.”

Sara and her projects have already benefited thousands of our community members but she has no plans to slow down. Her latest project is our Vacant Lot Reinvigoration Project, a partnership with Rid-All Green Partnership and supported by Cuyahoga County and the County Land Bank. The project aims to beautify, enhance food access, enhance entrepreneurship, and help others create vibrant, multipurpose community spaces.

To young girls and the community, Sara advises, “Ask yourselves: What is your passion? What do you love, and how can you bring it to the world to make it a more 14 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

beautiful, joyous place? Don't let anything stop you from pursuing your passions. Setbacks, mistakes, negative experiences are part of the journey and are there to teach you what you need to learn. You usually figure out what you were supposed to learn after the fact, so don't let frustrating moments stop you, just ask yourself, “what am I being taught?” Then reevaluate and keep pushing. You create your own reality, so whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right. And bring people on your journey with you. When you emanate passion and love for your work, you will attract others who match your energy and you can support one another. Whatever you do, don't give up. If I gave up at every setback or failure, I would have never made it very far. I probably would have left Africa after the first week. But I stayed, I learned and because of that experience, I know I can handle anything life throws at me.”

To learn more about Food Strong, visit, www.foodstrong.org

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Photos:

JASON GARRETT

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TELEANGÉ THOMAS Growing Dreams And Opportunities For Entrepreneurs And Community

By Shelley Shockley PWM MANAGING EDITOR

The marriage of Jumpstart, Inc. and its newly appointed Chief Operations and Relationships Officer is one that seems destined to exist. On its website, the non-profit is described as “an organization made up of diverse entrepreneurs, investors, and business experts who believe entrepreneurs—and innovation clustered in thriving ecosystems—can transform lives and communities.”

Transforming lives and communities is something that Thomas has been immersed in her entire life due to the foresight of her grandparents, parents, and extended family. As a youngster, her grandparents were beacons in her community working not only to improve the lives of their family but also to provide opportunities and experiences for their community.

This work started with her grandfather, a foreman with the railroad by day and a boxing trainer by night. Thomas said her grandfather was “very committed to working with young men,” a commitment that ultimately grew to include the entire community.

While observing and participating in the work her family was committed to, Teleangé knew that she had “an entrepreneurial spirit” which led her to plan activities that would bring the community together. She said, “ultimately it was about building that connectivity of community and creating things that I thought should be that did not exist at the time.”

With a strong sense of community, there was still something missing in Thomas' continued maturation. With an early education in the Catholic School system where she was one of only about five, continued academic opportunities that would challenge her were not readily available. This would lead to her connecting with the A Better Chance Program and attending a preparatory high school in State College, PA. A Better Chance is a non-profit launched in 1963 to increase substantially the number of well-educated young people of color who are capable of assuming positions of responsibility and leadership in American society.

By choosing to participate in this program, Thomas left the small city of Alliance to live away from home in an uppermiddle-class community, anchored by Penn State University. While there she would live in a dormitory with students from New York, Philadelphia, and the greater Cleveland area.

In the classroom, Thomas often found herself as the only person of color, and when she graduated there were only two dozen minority students out of a class of 498.

Even with these hurdles, she said this experience, “accelerated my social-emotional intelligence.” She explained the “social-emotional” as realizing that exposure goes both ways and while she was very aware of what she had not been exposed to, the reality was that there were limitations on what they (her peers) had not been exposed to as well. Thomas explained, “One of the main things they had not been exposed to was a black girl that grew up outside of 'Happy Valley' who had to seek opportunities such as education outside of her community because there are inequities that exist.” When she understood this, Thomas built empathy and learned how to meet people where they are. Another positive effect was that she became very inquisitive with the intention of seeking “authentic understanding but also setting a context for relationship and trust.”

While the prep school provided the educational experience she and her parents sought, she noted that “Access to Penn State gave me a much broader cultural experience and began to set me in a context that was much more globally minded.”

“

I felt the greatest value I could add was one that put me in a position where I would have influence and accountability to directly impact the economic inequities that were being felt.

“

The next hurdle for Teleangé was choosing a college to further develop the skills she had received in high school.

The journey to Pennsylvania had expanded her vision of possibilities and she was ready to go “further and farther,” and with many of the best colleges and universities providing acceptance, she had a choice to make. She recalls receiving a call from her mom about a school she had never heard of, Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). Her parents were receiving lots of mail from colleges, but “Case” was unique - they were calling. Thomas remembers her response, “Mom, I just don't see myself coming back to Ohio.” As parents do, they convinced her to do a site visit and she still wasn't sold, but ultimately it was the best choice for the family.

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While Thomas had successfully traveled in challenging environments, the transition to CWRU came with a level of anxiety and a feeling of being overwhelmed. She believes this was due to coming out of a strenuous situation and jumping into another, but this time with even higher stakes stating, “I didn't feel there was any room for failure.”

When asked if she was driven, and placed more stress on herself she responded, “I'm very aspirational, one of my gifts is a gift of vision, and so I get excited about what's possible and when I get clear on how Teleangé can be a value in that space, I become very committed and very accountable in that space.”

Finding comfort on the campus of CWRU didn't come immediately. Once she “found her tribe,” which included the Office of Multicultural Affairs and other faculty, things improved.

When reviewing Thomas' bio, it appears she took a circuitous route to get to her current position, but each stop on her path has built on the experience she would need in her toolbelt to reach this latest stop.

Throughout her life, Teleangé looked up to, and admired her mother, a retired hospital administrator, a woman who worked her way up the ladder retiring from a position where she was the only woman and person of color to hold 18 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

her position. Thomas also notes that her “mental model” was an evolved version of television's Clair Huxtable.

As she began to develop her journey, she utilized the vision of both these women, factored in her love of community, and began to design her path.

These visions were lights to guide her on the journey. To achieve these goals she interned at Timken before entering college, where she became excited about business through a corporate lens and understanding that more and more we were a global economy.

While at Case, Thomas had a plan and part of that plan was to learn to do things. She explained, “I wanted to be able to know how to do things, and I didn't know what I didn't know how to do.” To gain knowledge she found opportunities to work within the University Hospital system for financial needs, and for practical skill development.

After graduating from Case, Thomas worked at University Hospitals where she was given the space to be entrepreneurial and to lean into her love for community and community development. As an undergraduate working at UH, Thomas established relationships with many oncology doctors and nurses as she assisted them with research projects. She left a strong impression at the

Ireland Cancer Center, and this led some of the doctors to seek her out through one of the nurses. At the time she had traveled south seeking opportunities, but when she received the call she decided to take them up on the offer as long as it wasn't on a contractual basis. She explained, “I wanted to have the option to go further and farther.”

After about four months, Thomas found she could add greater value to her position and discussed her ideas with her mentor Rosalie Tyner, who suggested she put it on paper. She planned out the vision, wrote the job description and Tyner, who she affectionately refers to as her Italian Fairy Godmother, assisted with moving the proposal through the system. Hospital administrators agreed with her proposal with some tweaks and offered her the position.

The position she said, “Allowed me to bridge the excellence of what was happening within the walls of University Hospitals with the immediate needs of the community that surrounded it, particularly through the lens of oncology.” The main objectives was to understand what health looked like in the community, what were the challenges, barriers and what were the perceptions about the hospital and the care that people received. Once this was determined she worked with the medical team, community and community leaders to create better ways to work in partnership, thus creating successful outcomes. This experience she said was, “deeply rewarding to be able to do that for the community that reflected me.”

When she launched her career she didn't have a roadmap, but each position added to the toolbelt. Thomas explained, “Each position and opportunity has built upon themselves even though the sectors, fields and issues have been different. What I would say consistent is they have scaled both in terms of the complexity and the challenge.”

The position at JumpStart came at a time when Thomas was entering a new season in her life. “I felt the greatest value I could add was one that put me in a position where I would have influence and accountability to directly impact the economic inequities that were being felt,” she said.

JumpStart was the answer and today she is responsible for ensuring “we are a high performing organization by making sure we have the right talent, resources, systems, tools and software so that our teams can do the work they need to do to serve the entrepreneurs and impact the community.” Additionally she is responsible for ensuring they are positioned to be value added partners and collaborators at all levels of community.

A venture development organization, JumpStart's work is focused on three core areas; Making investments, delivering services, and acting as a value-added partner.

Through its' dedicated staff and well crafted programs, it has thus far engaged more than 6,500 companies. Since 2010, the cumulative work of JumpStart and its partners has directly or indirectly supported more than $9.1 billion

of total economic output. Also, the organization's special focus on women and minority owned businesses makes it a stand out among its peers. In 2019, among the companies JumpStart engaged, 51% were led by women and 42% were led by people of color.

Challenges have been a part of Thomas' life and one of the biggest was joining a new organization several weeks before the world was quarantined due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

She said of that time, “The immediate challenge was getting discernment on what to focus on first, because there was so much that required attention. There was the individual pain and challenge that folks were feeling because the world was shifting in very real ways and pulling on people emotionally, mentally and financially. It was also the reality that who we were as an organization was essential in this time of trying to support this broader conversation of equity as it related to equity in access to resources, business, in terms of opportunity and ensuring that communities and individuals were able to thrive and have their needs met in various ways.”

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PHENOMENAL FACTS

While she joined the organization in 2020, she was promoted to her current position in January and has set a goal of ensuring that JumpStart is high performing, high functioning and on a path of being sustainable over the long term. She is also working, “to continue strengthening our alignment to our mission of unlocking the power of entrepreneurship to transform entire communities.”

These goals show up in different ways and include partnerships, collaborations and the allocation of resources, talent, and initiatives. Ultimately it is “to ensure that as we are growing the dreams and opportunities of entrepreneurs and businesses, and that there is a ripple effect that comes from that.”

Thomas' position is vast and on any given day, the work is different. She said, “There is not a typical day with the exception that everyday brings challenge in a good way. It is very dynamic, this is a place of movement and exchange and the other typical thing is a general commitment to be excellent as it relates to our service to entrepreneurs and trying to be good partners, and to continue to serve the mission.”

B.S. Business Management Case Western Reserve University A Fellow of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Published in Academic Journals Serves as Member Board of Trustees Cleveland Public Library Serves as Executive Committee Member Cleveland Black Equity & Humanity Fund Served as Volunteer- Health Impact Committee United way of Greater Cleveland Served as Board of Directors Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park Served as Member of the Board Health Policy Institute of Ohio Serves as Board Member Green City Growers Serves as Board Member Creating Healthier Communities (CHC) Serves as Board Member Policy Matters Ohio A member of Zeta-Phi-Beta Sorority and the Order of the Eastern Star

20 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022

While she finds good challenges with her job, to achieve this position and the successes she has made over the years, there have been other challenges.

When identifying the challenges she said, “My not being the prototype of what may be anticipated for the position or opportunity because my journey has not been linear. I bring a very different context to the work, but it's that context that has added value and has contributed to the outcomes and levels of success that I have been able to achieve.” Another challenge is being a woman, and a black woman. While challenging Thomas said, “I don't see it as a hindrance by any stretch of the imagination.”

When asked about advice she would give to young girls coming behind her she said, “my number one piece of advice is to stay curious and ask questions. There shouldn't be limitations on asking and seeking knowledge in whatever fashion. Start exploring what makes you happy, what makes you tick. Be flexible.”

In her spare time, Thomas loves to travel for food and live music and to have cultural experiences, but ultimately it all comes back to community and family. She is a proud auntie, and spending enough time with her nephew is important as well as with her family as a whole. Also important is giving back to the community and beginning and ending her day with God. She is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta sorority and the Order of the Eastern Star.

Teleangé's sẀccessful story is a testament to hard work, dedication and self discipline. Her mission is evidently personal and not merely business. This phenomenal woman's dedicated service continues to positively affect communities in our region and beyond, but more is coming.

Stay tuned!

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Tri-C Ranked Among Nation’s Best Community Colleges for 2022 College claims Top 5 spot on Intelligent.com’s list of two-year schools Intelligent.com LogoFor the second consecutive year, Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) has been recognized as one of the nation's “Best Community Colleges” by Intelligent.com.

Tri-C ranked fifth in Intelligent.com's 2022 list of top two-year schools across the country and earned the top spot in the northeast region. The College was also in the Top 25 nationally in two other key categories: Most Affordable Online Community Colleges (No. 13) and Best Online Community Colleges and Trade Schools (No. 24).

Nearly 1,200 community colleges were reviewed, with 21 making the list of top schools. Evaluations were based on flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost and reputation.

Tri-C offers more than 1,000 credit courses each semester in more than 200 career and technical programs that lead to associate degrees. The College also grants shortterm certificates, certificates of proficiency and postdegree professional certificates.

More than 3,300 students petitioned for graduation during 2021. That total reflects the ongoing impact of College programs and initiatives designed to keep students on the path to commencement.

SOURCE: TRI-C

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5 TIPS TO ACE COLLEGE ENTRY EXAMS Because most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process.

While it can oftentimes be hard to deal with the anxiety that comes with a rigorous test meant to show your mastery of certain subjects and concepts, such as reading and mathematics, consider these test prep tips to help boost your score while simultaneously lowering stress.

Register Early To allow yourself as much flexibility as possible, taking college entrance exams during your junior year of high school is encouraged. If you don't get an ideal score, you can refine your approach and retake the exam with a better idea of what to expect.

Take a Practice Test Any test prep plan should start with a practice SAT or ACT exam. Taking practice tests under realistic conditions can help you gain a better understanding of the content of the test, improve your time management and help combat test anxiety. You can use your practice test as a baseline to set goals and focus the rest of your prep on areas you would like to improve before the real thing.

Sign Up for a Prep Course If you find studying on your own difficult or not as successful as you'd hoped, a prep course can put you

through the paces and hold you accountable. Complete with homework and in-class practice, prep classes can range from small groups to larger classes taught by test experts. Some school districts even offer after-school programs dedicated to ACT or SAT prep.

Gather Supplies To help reduce test day stress, gather everything you'll need the night before. Check the list of banned items – cellphones aren't permitted – to make sure you don't accidentally bring something you're not allowed to have.

Ensure your bag is packed with your admission ticket, valid photo identification, several sharpened pencils with erasers, an approved calculator (with fresh batteries) and a watch, if allowed.

Get a Good Night's Sleep and Eat Breakfast While it can be tempting to stay up late the night before the test to cram, you're likely to perform better with a full night's sleep. Sleep is important for retention, and eating a balanced breakfast before heading out the door can aid in your ability to focus. To make your morning easier, prep breakfast before bed to keep an early morning from starting even earlier.

Remember, the college admissions process involves more than just test scores. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more education tips and information.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 23

Black Student Union: On a Mission Driven by Love Spend a few minutes talking to Black Student Union (BSU) members about the organization, and it won't be long before themes of unity and inclusion quickly surface.

“We really strive to bring resources, fun events, and build a community for all students on campus. With 'Black' in the name, there is the misconception that BSU is only open to minority students,” said Skyler Stewart, current BSU President and Walsh senior. “If you come to our events, you do see students of all colors and different backgrounds.”

A precursor to BSU began in 1985 as Ebony Eyes: The Black Outlook, with the purpose to help students understand and appreciate Black American culture and heritage. By 1993, BSU had been established. Today, BSU aims to be an organization that supports and highlights diversity of all kinds with a centralized mission toward the advancement of students at Walsh University.

“The Black Student Union provides same-minded students the opportunity to engage in service learning activities as well as develop leaderships skills,” said Carrilyn Long, BSU Advisor and Director of Multicultural Affairs. “The most valuable asset of the Black Student Union is to see the transformation of students from their freshman year to their senior year. Students become empowered and take ownership of their learning and career path. I feel like a 'proud mama' when I see their transformation and how they have embraced it. Graduation is of course the icing on the cake—mission accomplished!”

Stewart said she began her journey at Walsh as a shy freshman, but the connections she made at her first BSU meeting helped her find her community and her voice.

“Even though none of us knew anybody, they just came to us with welcoming arms and open hearts. They were super kind and willing to help you in all aspects of your experience here at Walsh,” she said. “BSU means so much to me because I can be that friend, I can be that mentor, and I can be an advocate, but also we can build a community here at Walsh University that has the longevity to persist after we've graduated.”

When planning campus events, the BSU leadership team looks for ways in which they can seek collaboration with other groups and departments on campus. Examples include a fall cookout co-hosted with World Student Organization (WSO), a mental health awareness event cohosted with Counseling Services, and the annual Homecoming Dance, which drew a crowd of more than 200.In honor of Black History Month, BSU has a full scheduleof programsfeaturing informative and recreational events showcasing “The Power of One.” A few of Stewart's favorite programs this year include the Black History Showcase, highlighting minority businesses with takeaways for students,Soul Food Sunday with Black History BINGO and sharing of traditions, and a video project answering the question “What does Black History mean to you?”

Service is another component to the BSU mission.

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frontline workers and educators, volunteering at the North Canton Church of Christ food distribution center, and more. Though COVID precautions have limited in-person service opportunities, they seek other ways to give back.

Most recently, BSU partnered with Athletics to host a January Diaper Drive through Stark County Diaper Bank to benefit families in need.

“It's really important that we branch out and build that community,” Stewart said. “We're more than just BSU – we're a community here at Walsh and a family if we choose to become one, so I think it's important that we do engage ourselves in other activities. You never know who is needing that support.”

In some cases, that support comes in the form of spreading the word about resources on campus such as the Cavs Closet or Cavs Cave, and helping reduce the stigma of utilizing those resources.

In addition to President Skyler Stewart, the 2021-22 BSU leadership team consists of 1st Vice President Thomas nd Wilks, 2 Vice President Mattison Davis, Secretary Style Henry, Treasurer Tyree Broyles, Senator Jaden Baxter, and Marketing Coordinators Juanita Gray and Marley Manigault.

“They are the most loving and supportive people I have ever met,” Stewart said. “Just to be part of an organization that is driven by a mission of nothing but love shows what you're able to do for others in need. BSU is one of the most transformative things I have been able to be a part of at Walsh because of the people we reach and because we took a little bit of extra time to show some love to someone that needed it.”

Hear from the rest of the BSU leadership team: Jaden Baxter '23 BSU Senator Political Science Major “My favorite thing about BSU is the impact we leave on students all across campus. The fulfillment in unifying people from different walks of life through meetings, events, and the love of God is priceless. I want the Walsh University community to know that we welcome all people, no matter their race, gender or creed. We love and accept everyone.”

Tyree Broyles '23 BSU Treasurer Graphic Design Major “BSU is a fun group that holds events for all students. I know some people get confused when they see 'Black' in the name, but we encourage all students to get in on the fun. BSU has helped me open up and learn about myself. I want to help other students be successful, and it makes me proud and happy to help others do just that. By being the best I can be, others are able to see me and follow in my footsteps.”

Front row (l-r) Thomas Wilks, Skyler Stewart, Style Henry. Back row (l-r) Juanita Gray, Jaden Baxter, Tyree Broyles, Mattison Davis. Not pictured: Marley Manigault

Mattison Davis '23 BSU 2nd Vice President Business Management Major “My favorite thing about BSU is our unity. We support each other and our community, and we strive to always make sure that everyone feels valued and welcomed. BSU has impacted my leadership skills as a mentor. These skills have helped mecreate W.O.W., a women's Christian leadership organization on campus.”

Juanita Gray '22 BSU Marketing Coordinator Marketing Major “What motivates me as a student leader is knowing that the work and contributions I do for BSU positively impacts and inspires my peers to take the necessary steps to be a leader themselves. BSU has contributed to my growth both professionally and personally. BSU led me to become more confident, empathetic, and overall has allowed me to unlock my true potential. My experience with BSU influences me to carry on my leadership both in my community and in my future career.”

Style Henry '22 BSU Secretary Exercise Science Major

now than I've ever been. I've learned and continue to learn how to lead effectively. BSU has made a significant difference in my life, and I am and will forever be grateful for being a part of this club. I want the Walsh community to know that BSU is a club for everyone. We strive to be an all-inclusive club that also promotes and educates others about the black culture.”

Marley Manigault '22 BSU Marketing Coordinator Marketing Major “My favorite thing about BSU is seeing so many engaging and excepting students of so many backgrounds. BSU has made it possible for me to get to know people outside of athletics and or school, to learn about issues going on in the world, and learn other people's perspectives on those issues. It has also given me a great opportunity to talk about my own experiences, but having an engaging community to feel safe and comfortable to share my perspective on issues.”

Thomas Wilks '22 BSU 1stVice President Marketing Major “As BSU officers, we want everyone to feel included in everything we do. While being involved with BSU, I have gained lifelong friends and great connections with people.”

“BSU has helped me grow more into the woman I wish to be in the future. I'm more goal-oriented and concentrated www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 25

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GOING THE DISTANCE

FOR OUR

COMMUNITIES. At Dominion East Ohio, going the distance for our customers means more than just delivering safe, affordable natural gas. It means being a positive force in the communities we serve. Our EnergyShare® program has raised $6.8 million and helped more than 70,000 people in Ohio alone. These resources, combined with more than 6,300 volunteer hours from our employees, have benefited organizations as diverse as the American Red Cross, the Boy Scouts of America and the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition.