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Dr. RENÉE T. WILLIS SUPERINTENDENT,

Richmond Heights Local Schools

LINDA

PEAVY Owner, LiPav Consulting

NICOLE

SIMS

Partner, Inclusion Initiatives JumpStart, Inc.

Inside This Issue - PAYDAY LOANS, The Good, The Bad and The Ugly...PG 6

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Beletu (Bele') Wondwossen Founder / Publisher Shelley M. Shockley Managing Editor Writers Shelley M. Shockley Marsha Walker Eastwood Brittany Garrett Nirvana St. Cyr

Creative Bele’ Wondwossen Jason Garrett

Cover Story: Shelley M. Shockley Photo: Jason Garrett 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

FALL, A TIME FOR RENEWAL Happy Fall! Welcome to my favorite time of the year. A time to begin looking back over the months that have passed while planning ahead for the end of the year. The days are shorter and the temperature plays tricks on you, but the beauty of nature makes up for it.

Riding through Ohio and other midwestern states at this time is such a beautiful sight. The leaves are transforming from green to bright oranges, deep reds and warm golds.

Look quickly because unfortunately these beautiful hues don't last long.

It's time to put away the light summer cotton and pull out sweaters and long sleeves, and most importantly the opportunity to layer! Particularly at the beginning of fall, layering is the best strategy to fight the chill of the morning, and then be able to remove a layer for the warmth of the afternoon.

It's time for fires in the fireplace or the backyard fire pit and snuggling up with a good book or great conversation with friends. I hope you will find the time to get out and enjoy the changes in seasons and just clear your minds as you prepare for this next phase in your life.

When we met last I challenged everyone to be more inclusive, to greet the stranger walking down the street or strike up a conversation with someone you didn't know at your next event. So, what happened? Did you take the challenge, and how did it feel? I would love for you to share your experiences. If you're so inclined, send me a note at shelleyshockley@gmail.com. If you didn't take up the challenge it's not too late, try it and see what happens.

My goal with this is to get us out of our comfort zones, and to help us all see how wonderful this world would be if we just took the time to get to know someone who doesn't look like us or someone outside of our normal circle.

If you are anything like me this time of renewal is also a time to begin analyzing your life and working to have a better balance between work and play. I'm at a point that I really have to look at the things I'm doing to ensure they have real value and are important to continue doing. I have to use this same level of scrutiny when it comes to taking on new roles and projects. Because time is something we cannot get back, it is important to make sure we are valuing the time we have, but also finding space to enjoy the fruits of our labor.

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We are quick to add something to our schedules without understanding the strain it may place on our existing responsibilities. In this edition we feature some strong women who have either learned how to manage their time, or realize they need to do better.

When you look at the work of the women featured in this edition, I'm sure each of them struggles at some point with making time in their lives for themselves and in turn for their families.

Nicole Sims, JumpStart's Partner, Inclusive Initiatives, overseeing the public-private partnerships and the level of inclusiveness, has a powerful position calling for the melding of many personalities and relationships. At her level meetings before, during and after work have to keep her busy, but, at the end of the day she needs to ensure she has time to complete her own personal goals. To better understand, read the article that takes a look at her life and her role at JumpStart.

Linda Peavy is another example of women pushing themselves to achieve and learning how to manage your time effectively. Peavy notes that in order for her to continue at her current pace she had to do some serious time management. She is not only a literary agent, and public relations and event planning consultant, but also a blogger for plus-sized women over 50. To learn more please read her feature.

Dr. RenĂŠe Willis is the superintendent of the Richmond Heights School District, and she readily admits that she has to do better about working time into her life for herself.

She does take time out now and again to travel, a time that allows her to turn off her mind and be free. Read all about her accomplishments in the short time she has been with the district and the struggles she faced along the way.

If your financial well-being is of concern and you have considered taking out a payday loan, be sure to read our column on these loans before you head over to the website or the brick-and-mortar storefront. The information Marsha Eastwood offers in this column will definitely surprise you and have you re-evaluating your thinking.

I pray that you will take some time out for you over the next few months, and while you're at it, drop us a note to let us know how we're doing, and what you would like to see featured on these pages.

Until next time,

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DR. RENÉE T. WILLIS

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FROM THE EDITOR

As a young girl, teachers and others recognized early on that Dr. Renée Willis possessed a high aptitude for math and science and set out planning a path for her career.

Shelley M. Shockley

Family Features

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Family Features

MAIN FEATURES LINDA PEAVY

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A proud Clevelander who founded LiPav Consulting LLC. Her company's services include non-profit consulting, fund development, marketing campaigns, event planning, literary representation, and book campaigns.

NICOLE SIMS

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In her capacity, Sims supports the growing work of the Inclusion team and leads new initiatives to invigorate the city of Cleveland, areas within the state of Ohio, and beyond.

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PAYDAY LOANS There is no rap like a bad rap, and when it comes to payday loans, By: Marsha Walker Eastwood, the rap is perpetually B.S.Ed, MSHSVC bad. However, despite PWM Contributing Writer that bad rap, the payday loan industry continues to flourish by leaps and bounds. What began as a two-week payday advance has turned into a multimillion-dollar lending business that now includes installment plans with repayment spread out for up to one year. The foundation of the negativity surrounding the payday loan business is the shocking and outrageous interest rates. However, if you look at the picture from an actual financial perspective, those rates may pale in comparison to some other everyday interest rates.

A recent FDIC report calculated that typical check, debit and ATM overdraft fees would have implicit APRs ranging from 1,067 percent to 3,520 percent. The Community Financial Services Association of America examined the cost of payday loans and other short-term options. The results found that while a $100 payday advance with a $15 fee equals 391% APR, a $100 bounced check with $56 non-sufficient funds and merchant fees equals 1,449% APR. A regular credit card balance of $100 with a $37 late fee equals 965% APR, and a $100 utility bill with $46 late/reconnect fees equals 1,203% APR. A second issue with payday loans has been what seems to be gouging, yet it must be remembered that the lender is assuming all the risk. Initially, the applicant was required to write a post-dated check in the amount of the loan. The loan was due on the next pay date; however, those checks often bounced because of insufficient funds, a change of direct deposit, or a closed account. The account is then turned over to a collection agency or written off as a bad debt. Now the lender requires access to the applicant's banking information. In the cases where the lender bypasses a credit check, the risk is more significant, and the interest rate higher. The applicant will not have a hard hit on their credit record.

There are a variety of instances that can drive a consumer to seek a payday loan, some more emergent than others.

The reasons are what determines the good, the bad, and the ugly of payday loans. Here are a few scenarios that illustrate the difference.

GOOD: A great many people have experienced financial emergencies that require just a little to tide them over until the next payday. Sylvia has been seeking employment for eight months when she is hired at a wellpaying job in her field. The job requires professional 6 ▒ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

business attire. At her last job the dress code was casual because it did not involve face to face dealings with the public. She has no suitable clothing. She has a checking account that she uses to receive a small direct deposit from her widowed mother. The balance is just slightly more than the $500 she needs to buy clothing. A friend tells her how getting a payday loan will allow her to get the clothing. Sylvia applies for and receives the loan. She starts her job and repays the loan on time.

Jonathan's job is 20 miles from home and not on a busline.

He received a memo regarding mandatory overtime, and his car broke down. The repairs cost 900.00. Jonathan tries to borrow money from family members and friends, but no one can help him. He doesn't want to get an increase on his only credit card, so he considers a payday loan. The agent gives him a couple of options but reminds Jonathan not to borrow any more money than he really needs because the interest rate is 499%. He gives Jonathan the option of repaying the loan in one, two- or three-monthly installments.

Jonathan chooses two installments. He repays three-fourths of the loan in the first payment and the remainder in two weeks. The overtime helped him to pay off the loan early and minimized the amount of interest associated with the loan.

Jennifer was feeling under the weather and none of the over the counter medications she tried seemed to work.

She made an urgent care appointment and was given five prescriptions that she needed to start taking right away.

The medications cost 150.00 and she still had a week to go before payday. She tried to borrow money from her brother who only had 75.00 available. Since she did not have a checking account, he secured a payday loan for 100.00. Jennifer was able to get her medication and repaid the loan the following week.

BAD: Timothy was a pleaser and very needy. He thought the way to make people care for him was to give them what they wanted, including his kids. He spent several hundred dollars on electronics and sportswear for his sons. He never wanted them to be ridiculed or bullied at school, not to mention the fact that he really didn't feel like answering a questions from his wife and sister as to why his sons couldn't have this or that since all the other kids had one. His oldest son wanted a laptop that cost $800.00. Timothy had $600.00 in his “special” checking account, but he was trying to save that for an emergency.

He didn't know much about payday loans, but he felt compelled not to disappoint his son. The loan agent informed him of his options but cautioned him against applying for more money than he needed. Timothy decided to borrow “a full grand,” that way he could get the laptop and take his wife out for a nice dinner. The agreed

upon terms were three monthly installments. Timothy made the first payment but needed more time to pay the balance so two extra months were added to the life of the loan, which resulted in Timothy repaying $3000.00 for the laptop and dinner.

UGLY: Linda has never been “good” with money. She has no sense of what is and isn't important. A year ago, she neglected her mortgage payment to buy Christmas presents for her family. Then she took her entire tax return to pay off a payday loan that had been rolled over not once, but twice. Her banker suggested she see a debt counselor when some of her monthly direct debit bills resulted in overdrafts. Instead Linda applied for and received another payday loan.

Richard's business was struggling. His creditors were demanding payment as was his landlord. He also owed everyone in his family and felt as if the walls were closing in on him. After receiving a three-day eviction notice, and confident that the business would turn around Richard applied for a payday loan to pay his rent for a couple of months. Unfortunately, his business failed, he could not repay his loan and he had to file for bankruptcy.

Sharon was addicted to shopping, especially “As Seen On TV” items. She was also a payday loan juggler. She just couldn't resist buying something almost every day. She would use any of her credit cards that had “a little space” on it to pay the upfront fee, confident that within the next

thirty days she would have the money to make the payments with a credit card that had that “little space” on it. The notices began arriving fast and furious. Of the four outstanding payday loans, she rolled two over and was robbing Peter to pay Paul to pay Saul. Eventually it all blew up in her face. Sharon was sued, her paycheck garnished until she was fired and like Richard, ended up filing bankruptcy.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has described the debt cycle as a lending process in which borrowers “can be forced to choose between reborrowing, defaulting, or falling behind on other obligations”. The CFPB found that 67 percent of borrowers took out more than seven payday loans in a 12-month period and that 48 percent took out 10 or more loans. This means that a majority of payday loan borrowers use payday loans at least once every 1.7 months and that almost half of borrowers use them on a near-monthly basis.

Emergencies can happen at any time. For those fortunate enough to borrow from family and friends those emergencies are handled without a high interest repayment plan. For those who are not so fortunate, a payday loan may be their only option. In that case, it is wise to do a little research on the companies including reviews. Never borrow more than you need and for no longer than necessary to repay the debt. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 7

Keys to Success in Business and Life

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t's not always easy staying organized. Life is busy, chaotic and fast-moving. Although it can be easy to get discouraged at times, there are ways to enhance organization and attitude through the peaks and pits life throws at you.

Carol Lavin Bernick, former executive chairman of beauty conglomerate Alberto Culver, published “Gather As You Go: Lessons Learned Along the Way,” a book sharing insights she's learned through her many roles as a corporate leader, working mother, philanthropist and founder of the nonprofit organization Enchanted Backpack. Bernick offers these tips to be ready for the good times and difficult situations, highlighting the importance of loving what you are doing in both business and life.

1. Attitude is Key A person who is passionately committed to the success of his or her business – who has an “I-can-doit” attitude – is more likely to succeed. One person can make a difference, and it's up to you to demonstrate you are one of those people.

2. If You Never Fail, You Will Never Grow If it's always comfortable and easy, you can't know the big win. When challenged and stretched, you may have a greater chance to learn. Reach out, get involved and take a risk. Oftentimes, the best talent has multiple experiences to share and on which to reflect.

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3. Credibility is Everything Some of the most important career-saving words are “I don't know.” Never fake it. If you're wrong, admit it and correct it. If you've made a mistake, fix it and learn from it. If it's going to take some time to find an answer, set a timetable and stick to it.

4. Complaining Gets You Nowhere People, especially in business, simply do not want to hear complaints. If you are frustrated, it is probably best to keep quiet and figure out how you can fix whatever it is, and if you can't change it, try changing how you think about it and alter your mindset.

5. Give Back Communities are not perfect. They are the responsibility of business, government and citizens. If you don't commit to making a difference, you're instead leaving the burden to others.

6. Nice Guys Don't Finish Last; They Win Aggressive and passionate shouldn't equate with unpleasant. The higher you rise, the more pleasant and understanding you typically need to be. Never underestimate the importance of being thankful and the value of recognition. Ego has no place in business.

If you have one, try to lose it.

Find more tips and inspiration at gatherasyougo.com.

Gladys West is an American mathematician known for her contributions to the mathematics underpinning GPS. Her contributions to GPS were only uncovered when a member of her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, read a short biography West had submitted for an alumni function.

Artist: Geneva B is a self-taught illustrator from North Carolina. She loves working with colours, drawing big hair, and adding whimsy with a touch of realism and happiness.

Gladys West being inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame in 2018

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Linda Peavy Owner, LiPav Consulting

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ntrepreneurship is a catalyst for job creation and plays a vital role in boosting productivity. Over the years, many women-owned companies have flourished, immensely contributing to the nation's well being and economic productivity.

One such example is Linda Peavy, a proud Clevelander who founded LiPav Consulting LLC. Her company's services include non-profit consulting, fund development, marketing campaigns, event planning, literary representation, and book campaigns. While her hard work led her to becoming a successful entrepreneur, she credits her parents for instilling the values of hard work, determination, and, most importantly, the importance of faith.

She recalled, “my parents were strong disciplinarians, and throughout my entire life, I have remembered their teachings and the importance of order.”

Her mother, who faithfully attended church on Sundays, never ceased to bring her along, so she developed a life of faith from a very early age.

Peavy, a proud product of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) attended Case Western Reserve University for three years majoring in Chemical Engineering. A desire to join a more creative field led her to transfer and subsequently graduated from the University of Akron, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Marketing and a Master of Business Administration degree in Management.

Her shift to studying business has also been a key factor in her becoming a smart entrepreneur. Peavy's interest in 10 ▒ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

becoming an entrepreneur started early. She recalls, “I can remember starting a catalog-based fine jewelry store out of my dorm room as an undergraduate at The University of Akron.” Following her graduation, she worked as assistant director of marketing with Pilgrim Press, the publishing imprint of the United Church of Christ in Cleveland and the oldest Christian publishing house in the world. In this role, she developed national and international marketing campaigns for Pilgrim's significant book lists. She then worked as the associate publisher and director of marketing for Judson Press, the publishing imprint of the American Baptist Churches, USA, Inc. in Pennsylvania.

While she enjoyed her work and ensuing accomplishments, her desire has always been to become an entrepreneur.

She resigned from her position, returned to Cleveland and, established LiPav Consulting LLC. In a nutshell, her company's core competencies focus on marketing, fund development, and communications activities.

Peavy's marketing work includes creating and implementing stellar marketing campaigns and collateral for special events, plays, educational programs, musical events, schools, books, religious leaders, conventions, and major conferences across the country. Her company is currently the PR/Booking Agent for the Miss America Organization and Nia Franklin, Miss America 2019. Peavy has also worked with high-profile individuals, that include Danny Glover, Delroy Lindo, Cathy Hughes, Nicole Ari Parker, and Boris Kodjoe to name a few. Her diligent effort

has also garnered publicity for clients in Essence Magazine, the Tom Joyner Morning Show, the D. L. Hughley Show, Ebony Magazine, The Los Angeles Times newspaper, and Guideposts.

LiPav's grant writing wing represents midsize to large nonprofits, particularly in the field of education. Here also she secured over $17 million in funding, proving yet again huge success in her efforts. She currently provides grant writing workshops for the Urban League of Greater Cleveland. To Peavy, helping nonprofit organizations is a passion, and gives her enormous satisfaction. “I am always thrilled when my talents can be used to truly make a difference in the lives of the students and people that nonprofits serve,” she noted.

Peavy's love of publishing drives her to provide services; however, select. Due to her many years in the profession, she decided to add literary representation to her portfolio.

She said, “I represent a few preferred authors to traditional publishers. Most publishers will only accept manuscript queries and proposals from literary agents. Peavy recently sold Dr. Susan Williams Smith manuscript, Rest for the Justice Seeking Soul: 90 Meditations, which will be released in November 2019. She also represents other high profile individuals in Ohio and a few other states.

According to Peavy, successfully managing a multitude of responsibilities can be overwhelming. She stressed, “time management is everything. I feel as if I never have enough hours in the day or even administrative support, but I am continually working on improvements.” Adding, “it is never too early to begin building a reliable team. Learning how to delegate and trust your colleagues can determine how fast you falter or fly.”

Peavy with Danny Glover, an American actor, film director, and political activist.

In the course of her distinguished career, Peavy has worked with some of the nation's top-notch organizations and individuals. These interactions have taught her some valuable lessons. She said, “there is no longer a lot that surprises me anymore. I expect “no” in my profession. But I let “no” be my starting point to “yes.” I also find that it is beneficial to be resourceful. When one executive says “no,” I usually have one or two other alternatives.” As an example, she cited using social media. “When prospects don't pick up the phone or answer email, they will often communicate on LinkedIn. Last, visuals and the ability to reach people's emotions tell a much better story in marketing than lots of copy. Whether the activity is grant writing, marketing, or publishing, you still must tell a good story.”

Peavy appreciates the various opportunities available for women-owned businesses to help start and grow their businesses. She concedes that women business owners still face numerous hurdles including the availability of enough capital, which, when available comes at high-interest rates.

To alleviate these problems, Peavy suggests “seed money, angel investors, and access to grants or forgivable loans as an option. Offering these to women business owners based upon the strength of their ideas, business plan, and overall portfolio.” She also encouraged “forming network groups of women business owners.” Adding, “One step of support beyond groups would be organizations that match mentors or coaches with women who own businesses at no charge.

The level of one-on-one accountability and guidance is crucial.”

Linda Peavy with Christian Vincent Siriano, an American fashion designer.

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The Annual Financial Empowerment and Business Opportunities Conference organized by Phenomenal Woman Magazine and held at JumpStart Inc. facilities is one such example. Peavy was a participant at the event and said, “It offered a place for entrepreneurial networking. Many of the steps to business ownership discussed that included financial literacy provided necessary information that is needed before and during a business start-up.” She continued, “without a thorough understanding of how finances drive business can lead to the detriment of any start-up. There was a significant amount of literature and varied speakers who offered excellent knowledge.”

Peavy recently added a new venture, Cultured Curves: Sophisticated Style, Fashion, and Beauty for Curvy Women over 50. The decision to start this blog was significant. She said, “Having been a plus-size person since the second grade, I have come to understand more than ever the need to accept and love the body you reside within.” Her blog provides inspirational messaging that serves to uplift, inspire, and celebrate all women regardless of size. Readers can read more at is www.culturedcurves.com. She is also working on developing partnerships with plus size national clothing retailers that will allow greater visibility to women over 50.

Peavy is committed to giving back to her community and devotes time to inspiring and mentoring activities. She noted, “I have worked with At the Well Conferences, Inc., and From the Fire: Leadership Academy for Young Men on the campus of Princeton University. This work includes devoting time to providing communication services and mentoring to the teenage girls who attend.” “Locally, I offer grant writing workshops for the Urban League. I recently completed the Encore Classes as a part of the Women's Business Centers of Ohio at ECDI and relished in the opportunity to share best practices from my eleven years of entrepreneurship with local businesswomen.”

When asked to convey messages to young women, Peavy stated, “Follow that still small voice inside as it serves as a guide in all good decision making. I want young women to know that success comes in many forms and to find local, and family heroes as.” And, most importantly, “to love what you see in the mirror. Self-image is most important in determining what you become, how you become, and how high you can fly.”

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Peavy is grateful to her friends and colleagues who have played instrumental roles in her career, particularly to her sisters Nancy, Alice, and Shirley, who pushed and inspired her every day to be the best version herself.

Mae Jemison was not only the first black woman to travel in space but also an accomplished engineer and physician. On September 12, 1992, she flew into space on the Shuttle Endeavour for mission STS-47.

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NICOLE SIMS The Corporeal Ethernet- Connecting People, Industries & Communities

By Nirvana St. Cyr PWM Contributing Writer Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in the growth of our economy! Entrepreneurs build businesses, create jobs, support communities, and stimulate economic growth. According to a report from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, 27 million Americansabout 14 percent- are starting or running new businesses injecting trillions of dollars into the economy. Nonetheless, entrepreneurs face numerous hurdles to start and scaleup their businesses. The situation is far bleaker with women entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs of color. Women business owners who own nearly 40 percent of all businesses received just 2.2 percent of venture capital dollars in 2018. Lack of role models and mentors and unequal access to funding and venture capital are some of the obstacles facing women entrepreneurs.

Early recognition of the remarkable positive impact entrepreneurs can have led to the creation of JumpStart in 2003. Since its formation, JumpStart has made tremendous strides in boosting our economy and benefiting communities. A recent report indicates that since 2010, companies assisted by JumpStart and its partners have generated $6.6 billion in economic output. JumpStart's strong emphasis on inclusiveness also makes it a standout 14 â–’ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

among its peers. In 2018 alone, out of 925 companies, JumpStart was engaged, 51% were led by women and 44% led by people of color.

Meet Nicole Sims, Partner of Inclusion Initiatives at JumpStart Inc. and a public-private partnership expert who continues to play her share at ensuring JumpStart's success on inclusiveness. In her capacity, Sims supports the growing work of the Inclusion team and leads new initiatives to invigorate the city of Cleveland, areas within the state of Ohio, and beyond.

Sims' influences included her father's passion for advancements in technology, and her social worker mother's commitment to exposing new world views among the youth. Sims refined her own philanthropic philosophy to change lives by building significant relationships that boost economies. A Washington, D.C. native, Sims attributes her inspiration and motivation for being a “connector� to her parents. She referred to her father as a techie- always exploring and working on the edge of new technological trends.

Her mother's profession assisted individuals, families, groups, and communities in an effort to enhance social functioning and overall well-being.

Armed with an MBA from the University of Maryland, Sims has worked in strategic partnerships, impact investments, and industry growth for more than 20

years. During which she implemented more than 40 economic development initiatives that have transformed housing, education, workforce, business, and cultural indicators in emerging urban markets.

She also has a track record of developing and implementing successful innovative programming at the convergence of arts and entrepreneurship. Given Sims' successful accomplishments during her tenure as Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Inclusive Innovation Incubator (IN3), and as Business Intelligence Consultant for the Smithsonian Institution, both located in Washington, D.C., it was a no-brainer to recruit her talent and expertise to Cleveland.

In 2017, The KeyBank Foundation's Business Boost & Build Program awarded JumpStart Inc. $24 million over a four-year term in support of workforce development and the acceleration of startups. More than a year ago, Sims was recruited from her position in Washington, D.C., to JumpStart as Partner of Inclusion Initiatives, to oversee the creation and allocation of efforts, offerings, and opportunities.

Sims helps develop and provide project management of new initiatives that the JumpStart Inclusion Team leads. In addition to supporting and executing KeyBank initiatives as a part of JumpStart's KeyBank Business Boost & Build work in Ohio, NY, and new

markets as the partnership requires. The collective goal of KeyBank and JumpStart, among others, is to accelerate the growth of small businesses and microenterprises, create a minimum of 5,350 jobs, support growth in the technological and medical markets, and career awareness of high school students in these fields. Sims is the conduit to make it all happen.

In building productive and profitable relationships between public and private entities, neutrality and objectivity are the keys to a successful partnership.

Throughout our conversation with Sims, she consistently used the term “we,” demonstrating that these programs cannot succeed single-handedly. The collective effort is imperative for goal attainment. For example, Sims describes the diversity initiatives as, “We work to embed inclusion within the organization,” and “We have started with programming to engage youth… and to give our young people a vision…” and a taste of entrepreneurship. Emerging Talent Network, which is “engaging students that don't necessarily envision a four-year college experience in careers that don't require college. “Instead, we introduce them to internships in their sophomore year, with the potential of hiring them after graduation.” said Sims.

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services such as business growth assistance, job creation, and vocational training for high school students. At its core, JumpStart provides funding for tech entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, offers technical assistance, and works on behalf of potential funders to assist entrepreneurs.

Sims' role is to connect a diverse array of community stakeholders and to clear the path toward the finish line. Sims describes the premise of the Boost and Build partnership is for entrepreneurs “to receive technical assistance and services that'll help them scale and grow their businesses. The ultimate goal being to increase jobs overall so that we can increase the ecosystem of the community.”

The collaborative provides greater effectiveness and more efficient infrastructure solutions to economic stagnation. The current demographic focus includes Greater Ohio (Akron/Canton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo), and upstate New York (Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse).

In its 2018 Economic and Fiscal Impact Report, JumpStart reports the combined economic output of Ohio and New York women-owned business as $530 million. During the same period, firms led by people of color resulted in an economic impact of $160 million. These accomplishments were all during Sim's inaugural year as Partner.

This summer, JumpStart awarded $100,000.00 to Per Scholas, a Columbus-based program designed to open doors to transformative technology careers for individuals in overlooked communities. These efforts seek to help diversify the tech workforce in Columbus. According to Sims, "We [JumpStart] are essentially an intermediary between other non-profits where we are now granting monies" to build and sustain economic vitality in various communities.

Wome Inspiring

n To Reach Their Highest Pote

ntial!

JumpStart's successful accomplishments are possible thanks to the incredible staff and the generous support of its partners, chief among which include KeyBank and Ohio Third Frontier.

They have enabled the organization to continue unlocking the full potential of entrepreneurs and contribute to lifting our communities.

As for Sims, her ultimate vision is to be the catalyst for significant change by bringing techsavvy disruptors, entrepreneurs, and minorityowned small businesses to fruition, thus enhancing the livelihood of people, industries, and communities.

TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL

216.702.0845 16 ▒ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

If you would like to turn your innovative ideas into high-growth companies, your answer lies in visiting www.jumpstartinc.org.

#SheCanSTEM Meet the women changing the world with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

The future will be built by women in STEM.

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PHOTOS: JASON GARRETT

18 â–’ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

Dr. RENÉE WILLIS

By Shelley Shockley PWM, Managing Editor As a young girl, teachers and others recognized early on that Renée Willis possessed a high aptitude for math and science and set out planning a path for her career. The thought, though mostly unspoken, was that Renée would use her gift to elevate her out of the low-income community where she was raised.

That community, once known as the Forgotten Triangle, was a world that reflected her. Everyone looked like her, their struggles were similar, and they understood one another and found their own personal joy.

Her early school years were similar to those of the children she grew up with. They went to school, came home did chores, homework and met up to play. This was the 1970's and a change was afoot in Cleveland leading to the court ordered desegregation of the Cleveland school system. The order resulted in children being bussed from predominately black schools to majority white schools and vice versa, leading to Willis' move to South High School from East Technical High School. While at South, her gift for math and the sciences led to her elevation to classrooms for gifted students. That would normally be a good thing, but when Renée looked around no one looked like her. This trend would continue, but she persevered despite the feelings of isolation. The impact of this isolation didn't surface until she attempted to drop her Physics class. Willis' mom, her biggest cheerleader, would not hear of it and because she couldn't give her a good reason, her mother decided to visit her teacher to get to the bottom of the problem.

While in high school, Willis was also a part of the Upward Bound Program, a federally funded program designed to prepare students like her for college, particularly careers in the sciences. Willis was being prepped for a career as an engineer.

After graduation, Willis enrolled in The Ohio State University to begin her collegiate studies as an engineering student. She recalls, “I was encouraged to go there because I was an African American female good in math and sciences.”

After two short quarters, Willis called it quits. “I told my mom, I don't, I don't care, I'll go to the military but I can't do this big school and be an engineering major.”

As she reflects on the experience she says, “I was the only African American female in my core classes.

Unbeknownst to me that was the beginning of what has become a familiar place for me, being the only African American female in a context.”

That feeling of isolation would not last long. After leaving Ohio State, Renée transferred to Spelman College in Atlanta, a place she fondly refers to as “my mecca.” At Spelman she changed her major from

engineering to Mathematics. The shift was because she wanted to be out in four years and as a partner with Georgia Tech, she would have to attend Spelman for three years before continuing the program at Georgia Tech for two years. After foregoing the engineering path, Willis settled on Mathematics. Once again, she was following the thoughts of others, explaining “Someone said I was good in the hard sciences so I should major in math.” Each summer she interned at NASA Lewis Research Center and again found herself the only African American female, “so I knew about “Hidden Figures.”

What she didn't know how to do was navigate a world where she was the only African American female, so despite receiving a full-time job at NASA after graduation, she would soon leave because she couldn't handle the lack of diversity.

Of this experience she said, “Now that I'm saying this, I was refusing my calling to be a trailblazer. I didn't know what to do, but I knew I wasn't going to be unhappy in my career.” At this impasse her Upward Bound counselors offered her support and advice. She had started teaching in the program and found it fulfilling so they suggested she get her certificate to teach. She enrolled in Baldwin Wallace College and received her certificate to teach math in grades 6-12.

She also began working for the Upward Bound program where she learned, “if you work for them (Upward Bound) you can get your certificate free.”

After receiving her certificate, she also studied for her master's degree and principal's certificate.

Armed with a Master of Arts degree in education administration and all other credentials, she decided it was time to go back to Cleveland and teach, but it was 1989 and the Cleveland school system was in the midst of massive layoffs. The Cleveland Heights district was seeking teachers, particularly minority teachers in the hard sciences and they hired her on site.

Willis had found her niche – teaching. She spent 17 years in the Cleveland Heights-University Heights School district starting as a math teacher. She also served as high school unit principal and as middle school principal. She then successively served as deputy chief of PreK-8 Education, Chief of Transformation and as Chief Strategic Implementation Officer for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

In these positions, Willis helped establish many important and innovative programs and was instrumental in increasing the graduation rate among African American students by 15 percent in just one academic year.

With a strong desire to pursue her education, Willis put in hard work and earned a doctor of philosophy in Urban Education from Cleveland State University further qualifying her for leadership positions in the urban education.

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These accomplishments paved the way to where she is now, superintendent of the Richmond Heights School District. She says of the experience, “I never thought I would be a superintendent. I thought I would teach math for thirty years and retire, but someone always stopped and patted me on the back and said you have a higher calling, you need to make a greater impact.” With that inspiration she says, “my class of 30 became a unit grade of 400 which quickly became a middle school of 600 and now a district of just shy of 1000.”

So, just a few days into the new school year, Superintendent Renée Willis is at the board office late on a Friday evening dressed in business casual attire complete with sneakers and a safety jacket talking into a cell phone as she greets Phenomenal Woman to discuss her career and her commitment to promoting STEM to students.

This school year marks Willis' sixth year at the helm of the Richmond Heights schools. During this short timeframe, she has achieved major goals. Willis began her tenure as the district and the city were working to overcome many challenges, and new leadership was met with caution. Many of the growing pains were due in part to a change in the community demographics. In the span of a little more than a decade the racial makeup of Richmond Heights shifted from approximately 86% Caucasian and 28% African American to 48% and 45% respectively.

When she came aboard Willis said, “It was a district that had gone through hell and back. Prior to me this was a

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district that had for all intents and purposes hit rock bottom.” To overcome some of the mistrust and skepticism she says, “We had to do a lot of healing. Heal the community, regain the trust. Trust had been lost in public schools, in public servants and that was a yeoman's job, and it speaks volumes that we were able to do that.” Part of the trust building was the passage of a levy for the construction of the Richmond Heights Upper School, which was originally built in 1921.

Many said it was unpassable but through hard work and putting boots on the ground, Willis and her team were able to pass a double-digit millage, 12 mils which she says, “produced the $26 million that we're building our new upper school with now and it passed the first time out.” Willis explained the work, “It took a lot of ground work, meeting in people's homes, meeting with homeowners associations, not talking necessarily academics but just talking vision and letting people hear my heart.

That's all they wanted to do, people were wounded and now we are celebrating because the school is being built – people see it.”

Now that she has the community on board, the next big hurdle she faces is the disparate way in which educational funds are distributed. One of the biggest obstacles as it relates to funding is the district's size. With just under 1,000 students it is a small district with large property tax valuations placing it in the same bracket as the Worthington, Solon, and Hudson's. Despite property values and size, Richmond Heights is much like other inner-ring districts dealing with similar issues. It is a voucher system that has received a 'D' on the state report card, yet the resources that would come to Cleveland, East Cleveland and others don't come to Richmond Heights.

it's incumbent on the organization or college to also single out those students, even if it's only inviting them to a mixer or meeting.

Willis knows first-hand the power of support, and working with others to achieve similar goals. While working on her Ph.D. at Cleveland State University, the program utilized a cohort model, where candidates worked in teams, to complete their studies. She said of the program, “that support group was critical because there were times I wanted to throw in the towel or someone else wanted to throw in the towel, but we were like 'no,' we're going to do this together. So, where I was strong in the statistical part of the cohort, I struggled with the writing and there was a colleague that was good in the writing so she helped me and I helped her in the support group and we moved on.” Teaming up with a colleague was key to her successfully achieving the goal of becoming Dr. Renée Willis.

So much of Willis' work is left to deal with administrative duties and delegating the classroom responsibilities to her team. The work she has done includes testifying before the State House to bring attention to the disparities she and the other inner-ring suburbs battle each day.

While the position of superintendent encompasses a wide-range of responsibilities, Willis notes that, “from a policy making position, and the curriculum directive position, I have the ability to create opportunities for students in areas that they would traditionally not seek or know to even seek in the STEM areas where we are underrepresented.” An example of that is a major grant the district recently received to expose students to the field of aviation and all of the careers that encompasses.

These careers she said include manufacturing around Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, or drones as we call them areas, “our kids don't traditionally have exposure to.

They know a pilot, a stewardess but there are so many more opportunities and those are STEM areas.” Another opportunity is Richmond Coders, a partnership with the United Black Fund that introduces fifth grade students to coding. The students in this program are thriving and are now also partnering with Indeed We Code.

Looking back Willis said, “Even in my case if I had a little more exposure, I wouldn't have had so many rude awakenings and maybe I would have not been so overcome with the fact that I am the only minority or would know how to better navigate those situations. So, giving our kids opportunities and exposures is one of my foremost responsibilities in exposing STEM.” Along with exposure she said it is important to have teachers that teach those areas, specifically teachers who are, “culturally congruent to our student body, because part of what I've learned as a teacher, is as a student we all have a learning style and if a teacher's teaching style is not congruent or if they're culturally incongruent, it just makes the learning of the sciences and the math that much harder.”

Armed with many experiences feeling isolated, her advice to young women in college or looking for their first jobs in STEM fields is to develop a support system.

She explained, “Support is key, but finding that support system is a two-way street. Colleges will say we have the office of student support, well I didn't know that and I didn't even know to go look for it. Students have to seek support, there has to be someone you can ask to help.” Once the student has sought out support she says

When Dr. Willis is not shaping the minds of tomorrow's leaders, this proud mother of a very successful daughter loves to travel. She said, “it's my solitude, my informal sabbatical where I can free my mind and do mindless things.” She's also active in her church.

For her remarkable accomplishments in leading schoolwide turnaround initiatives, putting relentless efforts towards excellence in education and executing ambitious strategic plans, Dr. Renée Willis has received numerous accolades and awards making her truly Phenomenal.

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PHENOMENAL FACTS: Ph.D. Urban Education Cleveland State University M.A. Education Administration Baldwin-Wallace College B.S. Mathematics Spelman College Certificate, Executive Leadership Harvard University Certificate, Strategic Planning Cornell University Recipient of a 2015 Visionary Award from the Richmond Heights Education Foundation Received congressional recognition from U.S. Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge in 2015 Recognized as Outstanding Educator of the Year in 2014, Baldwin-Wallace University Served as adjunct instructor at Cleveland State University and Baldwin Wallace University Served on the Board of Directors for Faith Community United Credit Union and the Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation Noted by the American Association of School Administrators as an “Administrator to Watch”.

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Simple STEM Activities to Do at Home KinderCareWinter is the season for family gatherings, snow days and breaks from school and work, but all this time indoors can lead to a serious case of cabin fever for both children and adults. Before you face another chorus of “I'm bored,” consider these simple activities you and your child can do together when winter weather or schedules have you stuck indoors.

purplish, drain it into a clear container. After the water cools, invite your child to measure a small amount of white vinegar and stir it in while observing what happens as additional vinegar is added. Next, have your child measure a small amount of baking soda or milk and stir it in to observe even more changes. Exploration, experimentation and observation are all key STEM skills.

Each activity idea from the experts at KinderCare can help children build foundational skills they'll need for success in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) areas so you can combine fun and learning.

Pre-Kindergarten (4-5-year-olds) Gather a variety of craft items, building toys and recycled materials like construction paper, markers, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, fabric scraps, glue sticks, tape, scissors, blocks, interlocking toys, paper towel rolls, tissue boxes, cardboard, lids and plastic food containers. Place the materials you've gathered in a bag. Give your child the “tinker bag” and some space to build. Invite him or her to explore the materials, create something and share it with you as a way to build engineering skills and curiosity.

Limiting the number of materials children have to work with can often create more opportunities for problem solving and innovation.

Infants Most babies love sensory baskets, and it's easy to make one at home. Fill a basket or low-sided container with materials in a variety of shapes, textures, weights, smells and sounds for your baby to explore. While your baby explores the materials and develops hand-eye coordination, describe what he or she is doing, seeing, feeling, hearing or tasting to help build his or her vocabulary.

Toddlers Show your toddler how to make ramps by stacking blocks or small cardboard boxes and placing one edge of a piece of cardboard on top. Invite your child to gather toy vehicles or balls and other objects to see how they roll.

Gather objects that will roll and a few that won't.

Encourage your child to ask questions and experiment with ramps of different heights. These experiments in force and motion can help develop your child's understanding about how different objects behave on inclines.

School Ages Gather a few containers from your recycle bin, such as plastic food containers, tin cans or cracker boxes. Talk with your child about how some things typically thrown away or recycled can be reused for the same purpose or a new one.

When items are reused, the amount of waste that ends up in landfills is reduced. Invite your child to select one of the containers and decide on a new use for it. When your child is finished creating something new using on-hand craft materials, ask him or her to share the innovation with you.

Give your child feedback in the same way engineers do by giving a compliment, asking a question or offering a suggestion.

Preschool (3-4-year-olds) Invite your child to observe from a safe distance as you boil 1 cup red cabbage in 2 cups water. As the water turns

For more activity ideas, visit kindercare.com.

24 ▒ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

Katherine Johnson (one of the three black female mathematicians portrayed in the film Hidden Figures) made calculations for NASA that were instrumental to America’s first manned spaceflight in 1960, the orbital mission of John Glenn in 1962, and the Apollo 11 lunar mission in 1969.

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In recognition of National Skin Care Awareness Month, I thought I would touch on the importance of skin care whether you wear makeup or not. If you are an avid makeup wearer, the need to take care of your skin is even greater. I cringe when I hear clients say they wash their face with water only, if you wash your body with soap your face deserves the same respect. Your face is even more unprotected from the elements than your body, being exposed to dirt, sweat, pollution and more. In this issue, I have listed the different skin types, how to care for them as well as share my Top 5 Favorite Skin Care Products!

foam cleansers are your best friends, it will take away all the extra oil your face produces leaving just what your skin needs.

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cannot use scented products or certain ingredients. Brands are starting to be well aware of sensitive skin and are coming out with products catering to such.

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dries elasticity,

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Official Tour Opening in Cleveland!

Oct 8 - 27 | Connor Palace

SUMMER KeyBank Broadway Series

She was a girl from Boston with a voice from heaven, who shot through the stars from gospel choir to dance floor diva. But what the world didn’t know was how Donna Summer risked it all to break through barriers, becoming the icon of an era and the inspiration for every music diva who followed.

With a score featuring more than 20 of Summer’s classic hits including “Love to Love You Baby,” “Bad Girls” and “Hot Stuff,” this electric experience is a moving tribute to the voice of a generation.

CLEVELAND MEGA BLUES FESTIVAL Nov 22 – 8:00pm | KeyBank State Theatre 32 ▒ SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

The Cleveland Mega Blues Festival is the most anticipated blues event of 2019. Never before seen together on one stage are these six chart topping blues and R&B artist of all time. The Legendary Millie Jackson and Latimore along with Willie Clayton, TK Soul, Wendell B and Pokey Bear.

This will be a show you don't want to miss!!

Nov 24 | KeyBank State Theatre

THE SINGING ANGELS HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

Come and join The Singing Angels at the KeyBank State Theatre as we sing your holiday favorites. We have twice the reason to sing with joy this year; we are also commemorating 55 years of audiences hearing some of Northeast Ohio’s best young voices raised in song!

As always, our repertoire encompasses classical, pop, barbershop harmony, and gospel styles, and includes a good oldfashioned sing-a-long. This year, we are also featuring a medley of songs from The Polar Express.

So, raise your hearts with us in song as we continue our mission to “Make Music.

Make Friends. Make a Difference.”

Dec 3 - 22 | Connor Palace

MEAN GIRLS KeyBank Broadway Series

Direct from Broadway, MEAN GIRLS is the hilarious hit musical from book writer TINA FEY (“30 Rock), composer JEFF RICHMOND (“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), lyricist NELL BENJAMIN (Legally Blonde) and director CASEY NICHOLAW (The Book of Mormon). The story of a naïve newbie who falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies, MEAN GIRLS “delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” USA Today says, “We’ll let you in on a little secret, because we’re such good friends: GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!” www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 33

May-Britt Moser, modern heroine, pioneered research on the brain's mechanism for representing space. She won the Nobel Prize in 2014 for her discovery of grid cells in the entorhinal cortex and several other space representing neurons that make up the positioning system of the brain.

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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 EnergyShareÂŽ 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.