Women Of Excellence Magazine May 2025

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TABLE OF CONTENT 3

EDITORS NOTE

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THE JOURNEY TO GREATNESS

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WHERE TO?

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Dear Momma

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Dear Momma

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MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

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LUPUS AWARNESS

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BROWN BEAUTY OF THE MONTH

Deborah Risper

Tatiana Geanes

Christina Atkins LaKisha Sanders Deborah Risper Decarah Myers

Deborah Risper

Tiffany A. Green-Hood

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Editors NOTE

May has arrived, wrapped in sunshine, celebration, and remembrance.

This month holds a complex beauty…….Mother’s Day brings warmth and gratitude, but for many of us, it also brings the quiet ache of loss. Whether you’re grieving a Mother, a child, or the dream of Motherhood, know that you’re not alone. This edition holds space for joy and sorrow. We honor Mothers in all forms; present, passed, spiritual, and chosen.

May also marks the beginning of travel and graduation season, a time of new journeys, milestones, and well-deserved rest. Whether you’re walking across a stage or strolling through a new city, this is your reminder to pause and acknowledge how far you’ve come. You deserve to celebrate yourself.

And then there’s Lupus Awareness Month, a topic that’s deeply personal to me. As a Lupus Butterfly, I know firsthand the strength it takes to thrive while battling an invisible illness. This month, we spotlight stories of resilience, education, and advocacy. May they inspire, inform, and ignite hope.

In true WOE fashion, this issue is a reflection of the multifaceted, unstoppable women we are.

Joyful. Grieving. Traveling. Healing. Graduating. Rising. Always rising.

Here’s to honoring every layer of our journey!

With Grace and Power,

Deborah

Editor-in-Chief Women of Excellence Magazine

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THE JOURNEY TO GREATNESS

By Tatiana Geanes

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y college journey at the University of Illinois Springfield has involved growth, discovery, and purpose. Majoring in Psychology, I developed a deep understanding of human behavior and mental processes, which has assisted in engaging with people and challenges around me.

One of my proudest achievements during college has been receiving the National Society of Leadership and Success Nomination. Being recognized for both academic excellence and community engagement has affirmed my commitment to leading with integrity and purpose and has motivated me to stay active in various service and leadership initiatives while being online.

Additionally, my internship experience at work has also provided me with invaluable real-world skills, strengthening my ability to app ly psychological principles in practical settings and preparing me for the professional world that lies ahead. Looking forward, I am excited to further my education by pursuing a master's degree in Cybersecurity. Although this may seem like a bit of a shift from Psychology, from my viewpoint I see it as a unique opportunity to connect human behavior with technology-especially in areas like digital ethics, user experience, and security awareness. Alongside my academic and career goals, I'm extremely passionate about personal growth as this journey has had many highs and lows.

I plan to travel and explore new hobbies, continue journaling as a way of reflection and self-expression, and volunteer in communities that need support. Overall, this journey has laid the foundation for a meaningful and multidisciplinary future, and I look forward to continuing to grow, give back, live life, and lead with purpose.

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WHERE TO GO?

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By Christina Atkins “Wander Wisely: Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Women on the Go” Summer is calling—and so is your suitcase!

But let’s be honest: inflation is real, and travel costs can add up quickly. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family getaway, or staying local like me (yes, I’ll be acting like a tourist right in Chicago!), you can explore without breaking the bank. Here are a few of my favorite travel tips to make the most of your summer—on a budget:

3. Family Vacations Without the Financial Stress

1. Be a Tourist at Home

4. Budget Like a Boss

You don’t need a passport to explore. This summer, I’m discovering Chicago all over again—neighborhood festivals, museum free days, lakefront bike rides, and even food truck hopping. Pretend you’re visiting for the first time. You’d be surprised what you’ve overlooked right in your backyard.

Set a travel budget before you plan, not after.

Use envelope budgeting or apps like Mint to track what you’re spending. Travel in groups to split costs, look for combo passes (like the CityPASS for museums), and avoid peak travel days if you can.

2. Solo Travel = Flexibility + Savings

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. Consider day trips to nearby towns, camping (even in your backyard!), or visiting national and state parks. Pack your own snacks, create your own games, and focus on experiences, not souvenirs. A weekend unplugged can mean the world to your family.

5. Travel is Self-Care Remember, travel doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful. Whether it’s a solo coffee date in a new café, a train ride to a nearby town, or an overnight staycation, it’s still a gift to yourself.

Traveling alone means you can jump on last-minute deals. Use apps like Hopper or Skyscanner to track flight price drops. Stay in hostels, boutique hotels, or Airbnbs with kitchen access to save on meals. And don’t forget—you can plan your whole trip around This summer, let’s redefine what luxury looks free experiences like walking tours, public art, like—it’s not about how far you go, but how or sunrise hikes. fully you enjoy the journey. Whether you’re hopping on a plane or catching the “L,” make memories, not debt.

— Christina Marie The Financial Doctor

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DEAR MOMMA

By LaKisha Sanders

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his year marked my first Mother’s Day without my mom and nothing could’ve prepared me for the silence that came with it.

I woke up wanting to hear her voice, to send that annual bouquet, to call and say, “Happy Mother’s Day, Momma.” But instead, I sat with the ache of absence. Still, in that quiet space, love found its way in. My husband, children, friends, and family surrounded me with calls, hugs, messages, and prayers. They didn’t try to fix it, they just held me. And that love helped soften the sting.

Grieving on Mother’s Day doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate. In fact, honoring our mothers can bring comfort and connection. One powerful way is by doing something they loved. Cook her favorite dish. Play her favorite song. Let her presence live on in your actions. Another way is to write her a letter. Pour your heart out. Tell her what you miss, what you’ve learned, and how her love still lives in you. You’ll be surprised how healing it can be.

To anyone navigating Mother’s Day with an empty chair at the table, your grief is sacred. Your love is eternal. And you are not alone.

A Prayer for the Motherless: God, comfort every child whose Mother is no longer here. Fill the hollow places with Your peace. Let their memories bring warmth, not just pain. Surround them with love, light, and the reminder that they are forever held.

-Amen

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Journeying Through Grief on Mother’s Day: Remembering a Mother Gone Too Soon Mother’s Day is often a time of joy and celebration, a day that is filled with flowers, hugs, and cherished memories. But for those who have lost their mother, especially to a sudden and unexpected passing, this day becomes quiet, full of tears and a reminder of what has been lost that you can never get back. It can feel like the world is celebrating while your heart is still mourning.

Grief, in my own words- is a journey. When a mother transitions too soon, the loss cuts deep. My mother was the culture of my home. She was a nurturer, a guide, a huge presence. Her absence leaves a silence that echoes through each day, and Mother’s Day has a way of bringing that absence to the forefront of my mind.

For those who share in walking this difficult road, it is important to allow space for both grief and remembrance. Reflecting on the values she instilled, the prayers she whispered, and the sacrifices she made can offer comfort. Remembering her laughter, her amazing meals, reading her favorite Scripture, or simply sitting with our memories are all small acts that can be sacred moments of healing.

My faith plays an important role in enduring such a loss. Trusting in God’s promises and holding onto the hope of reunion in eternity offers peace even in the time of grief. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to

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the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”In the stillness of grief, He is present.

Mother’s Day will never be the same for me, but through my own children, they have made it meaningful. Through prayer, remembrance, and quiet strength, we honor her legacy and the love that never fades.

Though she is no longer with us on the earth, her legacy lives on in our hearts, our choices, and the lives we touch, just like she did.

With Love, LaKisha Janay Sanders

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DEAR MOMMA

By Deborah S Risper This year marked my first Mother’s Day without my mom and nothing could’ve prepared me for the silence that came with it.

I woke up wanting to hear her voice, to send that annual bouquet, to call and say, “Happy Mother’s Day, Momma.” But instead, I sat with the ache of absence. Still, in that quiet space, love found its way in. My husband, children, friends, and family surrounded me with calls, hugs, messages, and prayers. They didn’t try to fix it, they just held me. And that love helped soften the sting.

Grieving on Mother’s Day doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate. In fact, honoring our mothers can bring comfort and connection. One powerful way is by doing something they loved. Cook her favorite dish. Play her favorite song. Let her presence live on in your actions. Another way is to write her a letter. Pour your heart out. Tell her what you miss, what you’ve learned, and how her love still lives in you. You’ll be surprised how healing it can be.

To anyone navigating Mother’s Day with an empty chair at the table, your grief is sacred. Your love is eternal. And you are not alone.

A Prayer for the Motherless: God, comfort every child whose Mother is no longer here. Fill the hollow places with Your peace. Let their memories bring warmth, not just pain. Surround them with love, light, and the reminder that they are forever held.

-Amen

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MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

By Decarah Myers You and Your Mental Health Matter, Before Anything…and Anyone.

It’s Mental Health Awareness Month, so let me start this out by simply asking you; how are you? Like really, how are you and how are you feeling?

Overwhelmed? Elated and excited for the future? Or filled with worries and battling something you can hardly bare alone anymore?

That was invasive of me, maybe, but I think brutally honest check-in’s with ourselves are vital and should be practiced, not often, but daily. That sounds like a lot, because who has the time to silently sit with themselves and make sure they’re OK every day? In this world and in this economy? Really, I get it. As adults we have far more to think about; deadlines, and worst of all, bills. So we can rub our mental health off as circumstantial. We believe that stress is just what we have to endure and hold on to in order to fight for what we have. Or that deep sadness is just the result of loss. And anxiety motivates us. This is not normal.

“It’s OK to rest,” I heard today in my mom’s “Do It Scared” LIVE with [insert her name]. It’s OK to show up the best way you can. Every day won’t be 100% and should not be. You matter the most, the world waits for you…Just be respectful about it, and don’t blame me if you make your job or kids wait and you get in trouble. Seriously though, try it today, right now for me. Take a deep breath and close your eyes. Let that breath out dramatically and look introspective, curiously.

“How am I?” “What do I instantly think about?” “What’s worrying me?” “What’s giving me relief/joy right now?”

When I used to see stuff like this on the Internet, stuff about mental health and all that breathing in and breathing out mess, it used to annoy me. Will taking a deep breath pay my bills?! Joking, I know, but I get it. So seriously please just take that moment out for yourself. It’s so simple, so we think it couldn’t possibly help with something so complex or whatever it may be troubling you. You’ll never have to trust me again after this, so just trust me this once and do it. You deserve it.

Check in with yourself today, because I know you won’t do it again tomorrow, but you’ll think about it again in a few days when you see how much clarity it bought you. Sit with yourself, sit with God, or whatever it may be that you believe in and hold space today. Happy Mental Health Awareness Month, I wish you peace and joy.

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LUPUS AWARENESS Lupus Picked the Right Girl for the Mystery Fight By: Deborah S. Risper Lupus is often called the “great imitator” because its symptoms mimic many other conditions. This autoimmune disease causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, leading to widespread inflammation and damage to joints, skin, kidneys, brain, and other organs.

With over 5 million people affected globally—most of them women of color—lupus remains misunderstood and underfunded.

My personal journey with lupus hasn’t been easy, but I believe lupus picked the right girl for this mystery fight.

I’ve endured the pain, fatigue, and unpredictability that come with the disease.

I’ve lost time, opportunities, and even relationships—but I’ve gained perspective, strength, and a voice that refuses to be silenced. My story is proof that even when your body fights you, your spirit can still rise. I carry the lessons of my mother, who battled endometriosis with resilience, and I channel that same strength to educate and empower others walking this complex path.

Supporting someone with lupus takes compassion, not perfection. Here are three ways to truly show up:

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BROWN BEAUTY OF THE MONTH

By Tiffany A. Green-Hood

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eet Tiffany A. Green-Hood, a true trailblazer in the realm of self­-publishing and digital entrepreneurship. With a wealth of experience and expertise as the CEO of TA MEDIA CO, Tiffany has spent years empowering aspiring authors and entrepreneurs to amplify their voices and elevate their brands. Drawing from her rich background in publishing, coaching, and brand strategy, Tiffany offers a holistic approach to content creation that's both comprehensive and cutting-edge.

As a seasoned publisher, author, and coach, Tiffany is deeply passionate about helping others unlock the potential of passive income through innovative digital products such as journals, planners, ebooks, and workbooks.

Beyond business, Tiffany's mission is rooted in fostering healing and connection through impactful storytelling and community engagement.

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thank you May writers Tatiana Geanes LaKisha Sanders Christina Atkins Decarah Myers Tiffany A. Green-Hood

Thank You Advertisers TA Media Deborah Risper Inc Serenti Life

Thank You Designers Cover Photo-Perfect Capture Photography Cover- TA Media Hair-Arrogant Dame (Mz.CeCe) _

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