LIAP Celebrates Women's History Month
Love Is A Parable, in partnership with Lenora Pours by Lenora Lassiter, Good Steward Apparel, and We Are Connect-ED are honoring amazing women during the month of March. March is Women's History Month – commemorating and encouraging the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in history. We are taking it a step further and celebrating those women who are making history every day.
Lois Garnett is an Augusta, GA native and is 17 of 18 siblings. Lois is biologically the mother of 4 sons and the grandmother of 4 girls but spiritually, she is the mother and grandmother to several children throughout the world. In fact, she is affectionately known as “Mama Lois.” To know Lois is to know her famous Salmon Croquettes and Grits, followed by her Macaroni and Cheese! Lois will literally feed anyone who is in need. While growing up in the Augusta area, Lois attended public school, later getting her Associate in Business Administration from Phillips Junior College.
Professionally, she retired from the Fort Gordon Commissary but she has had a successful run as an entrepreneur. She once co-owned a clothing and home goods store, “Threes-A-Charm.” Additionally, she served as a distributor for women's intimate apparel and was a caterer. Throughout all of her endeavors, Lois' focus remained on family and the well-being of others. She continues to volunteer her time serving others, donating to community-based organizations, or finding ways to positively impact her community.
Local History Theatre has been Angie Staheli’s passion for the past decade and a half as she has written and directed historical fiction plays and musicals which have been performed in Texas, Pennsylvania, Utah (at the General Conference Theatre in Salt Lake City), Washington, North Carolina and other locations across the country.
With degrees in Theatre and Sociology, Angie is passionate about creating works that can help bring a community together. After writing and directing the first iteration of the sold-out Finding Patience – The Story of Holly Springs in 2017, she was so touched by the cast, crew and the audience members’ connection to the stories in the play, that she wanted to share the power and potential impact of Local History Theatre on a broader scale.
In 2018, Angie had the honor of giving a TEDx Talk at Duke University entitled Local History Theatre: Empowering Places and Growing Economies, where she compared moving to a new town like starting to read a book in the middle of the story. Much like a book, to truly understand and appreciate a place, we must look to its beginning chapters. Understanding the history of a place connects us to it and provides a sense of belonging.
As the mother of three amazing boys (Parker, Lincoln & Ander) and a wonderful, brilliant, supportive husband (David Staheli), Angie feels incredibly blessed and grateful. Being a mom and wife are her most treasured roles in life.
As an Executive Leadership and Performance Coach, Traci Philips is a trusted adviser to top-performing corporate and entrepreneurial visionaries. She supports her clients to understand and honor their unique genius, needs, methods and principals and to practice better
communication, resolution strategies, decision-making, and leading during times of change and when the stakes are high.
Angela Hollowell is the founder of Ang H. Studio, a creative digital media agency designed for social impact, and host of the Honey & Hustle video podcast. She is a visual storyteller with a love of people, peace, and the planet. Her work features stories with community-centered perspectives to promote environmental justice and human rights. The Honey & Hustle video podcast features episodes on entrepreneurial ecosystem development and innovative approaches in social enterprise business model practices. Through sharing inclusive stories from interviews with founders, she hopes to inspire early-stage entrepreneurs to build their audience and increase their impact.
Aquarius Cain is founder and CEO of Achieve Success Tutoring, LLC (AST), a company that provides expert tutoring, test prep, and educational enrichment services using out-of-the-box strategies that advance the learning and academic skills students need to succeed and compete in the 21st century. We tutor K-12, college students, and adult learners in all subjects and provide career and college guidance and preparation along with study and organizational skills to give students a solid foundation to be successful. We include a large focus on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art, math) learning and exploration. AST’s S.T.E.A.M. programs provide career exploration activities and training that support planning for college and other careers by conducting workshops, seminars, summer camps, and clubs for after school programs, recreation centers, youth organizations, and families and providing monthly fully equipped S.T.E.AM. kits for youth ages 5 and up.
Evelyn S. Booker, author of "A Winner in Spite of...” is the 8th of 10 children born to Roland and Eulah Smith in a small town, Nakina, NC (Columbus County). She attended elementary and high school in Nakina, NC. She and her sister Clara, were the first blacks to integrate the school system in 1965 – Columbus County
She left college after her 1st semester of her freshman year to take care of my sick Mother (massive strokes anda brain tumor) She returned to NCCU after being out for 10 months (with Mom) and was still able to graduate with her class of 1973
Upon graduation from North Carolina Central University with a BA degree, Evelyn went to work for Carolina Power and Light Company (now Progress Energy), as a Computer Programmer.
She is happily married to Lee Booker (my college sweetheart), and after 2 years of marriage, gave birth to our 1st Daughter, Millicent . When her 2nd daughter Eulonda came, she decided to stay at home for a while.
Always wanted to write, so applied at WRAL-TV while I was at home, and was hired as an assistant 1st African American female to sell television for WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC. Other accomplishments Include
Named salesperson of the year 4X
Salesperson of the month 16X -more than anyone in WRAL’s history (awards still posted)
Promoted to Local Sales Manager of WB Affiliate (under Capitol Broadcasting’s umbrella)
Promoted to General Sales Manager of FOX-TV (team broke all sales records) generating millions
in sales (managed local team and a national team with offices throughout the US)
Retired from Capitol March 2011 with 30 years of service
She remains active in her church and community.
She is the grandmother of five (5) gifted grands, KJ (14), Mackenzie (12), Nathan (8), and Ashlynn (5), Madelyn (3).
Sharee L. McCall, a Raleigh native, is the Managing Attorney at McCall Law, PLLC. Atty. McCall set out on her journey to become an attorney at the tender age of 14. It was during that time that she realized being a lawyer was not all about banter and conflict, but the true ability to help those unable to help themselves. During her sophomore year of high school, she began internships with various law offices in the downtown Raleigh area. It was there that she learned the importance of preparedness and building a network. From then on her steps, moves, and decisions became calculated and intentional, she was on the way to be the attorney that she always dreamed of being.
She attended The North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and acquired a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. While there she fostered long-standing relationships with her chairperson and professors that would prove to be advantageous in her future endeavors.
She took a leap of faith and relocated to Baton Rouge, LA to attend Southern University Law Center. While there she excelled in academics and held leadership roles in several student organizations including Women In Law, Criminal Law Society, and Christians in Law. She sat on the Executive Board of her law school’s law journal, Journal of Race, Gender, and Poverty. It was then that she began drafting an article that she will soon publish, “Banking on Bodies: A In-Depth Look into Prison Privatization and The Lost Goals of Incarceration.” Atty. McCall spends a significant amount of time engaging in philanthropy work geared toward the disenfranchised population. She has contributed to efforts such as, license restoration, expunging criminal charges, and reentry of those previously incarcerated. Additionally, she hosts community meetings where Constitutional rights, introduction to legal principles, and the importance of empowerment is discussed.
Atty. McCall has had experience working with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Equal Justice Works, Legal Aid, various non-profit organizations geared towards the vulnerable population, and as a Board member of several community organizations. Atty. McCall has the passion to advocate for those unable, unwilling, or ill-informed. She is of the belief that people deserve a right to counsel and to be advised of issues that directly affect their lives.
Katyna Bunn has been a full-time Realtor for 20 years and consistently performs within the top 20% at Keller Williams Platinum. Prior to real estate, Katyna excelled as an internal auditor, financial analyst and financial recruiter. Katyna transitioned into real estate as an investor. She has a strong passion for the industry because of its ability to help build legacies. Therefore, she named her real estate team Legacy Partners and set out to help others achieve their goals. Katyna strives to match each client's sense of urgency and clearly communicate the financial impact of each decision. Katyna believes that few decisions can be made without understanding the numbers first.
She currently serves on the board of the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce and is the past president of the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Rotary Club. Katyna is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Raleigh/Wake Aggie Alumni Club. When not working or volunteering, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Garion, teenage sons, Noah and Isaiah and bernedoodle, Honey.
Coming from a Business Marketing degree from NCCU, and working in corporate America Chef Carmen used her passion for cooking as motivation to start her own food truck and catering company. It was the passion plus the encouragement from family and friends to pursue this dream of becoming an entrepreneur. No matter the size of the event you will get the same level of customer service from Chef Carmen because having a good time at your event is just as important as having good food!
The one thing that we are proud of is all the opportunities that have been to our company since we started, not only do we cater and run the truck but we now provide cooking classes for youth & adults, Private Chef service, meal prep, corporate and VIP events, wedding receptions, gala's, cooking demos with non-profits and local schools, preferred caterer for Durham County Schools, providing food and service at all the major Universities and venues around the Triangle and we even make our own hot sauce! This is only the beginning and I look forward to serving our new and returning clients for many years to come!
Marion J. Tucker is a 1960 graduate of Fuquay Consolidated High School, Marion furthered her education by graduating from Shaw University with a BS in Home Economics and Science. She attended UNC at Chapel Hill and Greensboro. Eager to remain educationally aware of new information she has continued to network and attend workshops akin to any position held.
Her professional work experiences began in 1966 as an educator teaching in both Teachey, NC and at Brawley High School, Scotland Neck, NC; the National Center of Health Statistics, for the National Center of Health at RTP; Randolph County Agriculture Extension Agent, Asheboro, NC; and finally, Telamon Corporation where she held the positions of Food and Nutrition Coordinator for a twenty-two state area; Housing Coordinator, and Equal Opportunity/Human Resources Director until retirement in February 20ll.
Her educational, work, and professional membership experiences contributed extensively toward her ability to lead the Cultural Arts Society, Inc. which she joined in 2003 as a committee member. She served as secretary, Vice-Chair, and Chair, for a total of 22 years of volunteerism (as of 2022). Excelling in tasks assigned, Marion received numerous awards including the Alabama State Militia. Honorary Lt. Colonel Aide-de-camp. Marion describes herself as a fearless, no-nonsense woman with a strong belief in God and a desire to serve her fellow man.
LaToya Reed currently serves as the Director of the South Carolina National Guard Youth Challenge Academy under the Adjutant General’s Office. She is the first female director of the academy that existed 20 years prior to her arrival. She previously served as the State Coordinator for the Independent Living Program at the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Department of Juvenile Justice as Director of Volunteer Services. She completed her undergrad studies at Columbia International University (CIU) in Youth Ministry & Bible and truly enjoyed her experience as an undergrad student. She obtained her master’s degree from Liberty University in Human Services - Marriage & Family.
Doris Battle has become a force for good in Holly Springs and surrounding areas. She is gifted at researching, resourcefulness, and organizing people in order to bring forgotten history to light. Her biggest asset is her heart.
Mrs. Doris Battle is the Chairperson and Founder of NC Forgotten History. Realizing there was no Historical Marker for the historical Holly Springs Elementary School, she requested that the Town of Holly Springs purchase one for the school site.
Mrs. Battle was raised by her loving mother (Lunaria Taylor Harris) and father (Willie Cleveland Harris) in a small community near Holly Springs referred to as St. Mary’s (beside Holly Springs Road; Route 1 in Apex). Her entire family would gather on the weekends at the community bench outside her Uncle Frank’s house. Her Aunt Alberta would sell hot dogs and ice cream cones on weekends. Someone would bring watermelons, cantaloupes, or something from their garden and they all would eat. The children would play games, and the adults would tell jokes and laugh. They would share stories of their childhoods and make up some stories on others.
Mrs. Battle’s interest in history developed from the community she grew up in. “They would tell us just enough to keep us wondering what was next in their conversation. There was so much respect for their fellow persons,” Doris observed. Mrs. Doris Battle is married to Rev. Milton O. Battle. She is the mother of four beautiful adult daughters, and grandmother of two marvelous grandchildren - a girl and a boy. Doris’ motto in life is: “Seek And You Shall Find.” Her former professor Mrs. Florence Thomas would say, “Sometimes you have to dig a little deeper.” So that’s what she has decided to do, and it has been a marvelous journey.
Founder and Director of MBolden Ministry, Melissa Bolden is a published author, speaker, and teacher. She is passionate about empowering the Body of Christ to walk in freedom from fear and depression. Through weekly bible studies, regular speaking engagements, and inspirational blogs, Melissa can often be found leading others into a deeper revelation of the Father’s love. In addition, Melissa is fervent about promoting unity. Monthly, she co-hosts a Facebook Live discussion on racial reconciliation. Bi-annually, MBolden Ministry conducts Be the Bridge Book Studies which empowers others to be a part of the solution of racial reconciliation
Melissa is active in her local community. Her motto is “Be the Change you want to see.” Through MBolden Ministry, Melissa sponsors regular grocery distributions, school supply drives, and Vacation Bible School in under served communities. As an ordained Pastor and a Public School Teacher, Melissa desires to embolden, empower, and impact men and women to embrace the fullness of the their purpose and make a difference in their communities.
Stacy Moore is a Certified Career Management Coach with over 10 years of experience in career development and coaching. She holds a Master’s in Education from Colorado State University and Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Muhlenberg College. In addition to her full-time position as a Career Coach for Professional Certificates at Emeritus, Stacy serves as an adjunct instructor of professional development and career exploration courses at Delaware Valley University. She has also been published in New Directions in Adult and Continuing Education. Stacy’s approach to coaching utilizes active listening and a learner-centric style that empowers individuals to effectively share their career stories.
Dr. Evelyn Booker Wicker, born in Fuquay Varina, North Carolina to Kater Brown and Ethel Jones Booker, learned the value of family, hard work, education, Christian values and relationships from her parents and seven brothers and sister. Dr. Wicker, the wife, mother, nurse, educator, administrator, consultant and author has lived her personal and professional life on the principles of Faith, Love, Perseverance and integrity. She graduated as valedictorian from Fuquay Consolidated School in Wake County public schools, received a Diploma in Nursing from Lincoln Hospital School of Nursing in Durham NC, A Bachelor of Science in nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham NC, a Master’s in Public Health Nursing from UNC Chapel Hill, and the Doctorate of Adult Education from North Carolina State University. She has served on numerous professional boards and organizations and was the first nurse to serve on the Board of the Public Health Department in Durham, the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Nursing Association, District 11, and the Durham YMCA Board of Directors.
Evelyn has been a trailblazer in nursing, the first Black administrator at Duke Hospital, a Wharton Fellow in the nurse Executive Leadership program at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, recognized as Women of Achievement by the YMCA Board in Durham; a published author who wrote a book on the history of Lincoln Hospital School of Nursing entitled, Voices: Lincoln Hospital School of Nursing Durham, NC 1903..., recounting the experiences of black nurses at a segregated school during the early 1900's. As a graduate of NCCU Department of Nursing, she has been recognized as a Distinguished Alumna. At NCCU, she established the Helen S. Miller Lectureship, an annual event since 1996 which is designed to introduce and engage NCCU nursing students, staff and community nurses to nationally renowned nursing leaders. Committed to advocacy for community involvement and diversity, she became a charter member of the Cultural Arts Society in Fuquay Varina and initiated the first international festival to recognize and celebrate the cultural diversity in the local area. Dr. Wicker’s career has been devoted to developing, nurturing and promoting nurses to achieve their career goals, demanding high standards of care and performance in their roles. She role modeled those values and instilled them into her children, a son who is a minister and educator and a daughter, an administrator at a local university. She believes strongly that, “You are as broad or narrow as your experiences/environment” and she has worked to introduce her children to experiences that would broaden their horizons.
Sofia Hernandez is the Global Head of Business Marketing for TikTok, the leading short-form video platform designed to inspire creativity and bring joy. She's responsible for building innovative marketing solutions that help brands become TikTok fluent and engage with their communities through powerful and creative storytelling.
Prior to TikTok, Sofia was the Chief Client Officer at consumer insights platform Suzy where she was responsible for driving revenue retention and growth, informing the product roadmap, and ensuring the entire company was rooted in a ‘customer first’ approach. With over 18 years leading some of the most iconic global marketing campaigns for Fortune 500 companies including P&G, J&J, Netflix and Spotify, Sofia's passion for people and what makes them tick continues to fuel her keen understanding of how to drive successful connections between brands and the people that love them.
An activist at her core, Sofia recognizes her role as part of the 1% of Latina Executives in Tech and is committed to fostering inclusion in the tech industry by incorporating DEI into everything she touches. Sofia is a passionate advocate for social justice and co-founded a unique apparel line, Black on Black BK, that's dedicated to spreading messages of equality and empowerment.
As an entrepreneur, author, faith-leader, speaker, philanthropist, and community & political activist, Dr. Jennifer Bishop is equally a realist. She has dedicated her life to confronting societal disparities, combating injustices, and advocating for causes and initiatives that empower and equip.
As a member of several organizations whose core values align with her own, Dr. Jennifer Bishop is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jack& Jill of America, Inc., the National Association for Female Executives, the American Association of University Women, to name a few. She currently serves as the Chairwoman of the City of Columbia Commercial Revolving Loan Board.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History, a Master of Public Administration from Savannah State University, and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University.
Dr. Jennifer Bishop is happily married to Dr. Aaron Bishop, and they are the proud parents of one son.
Ashley Cobb is the millennial microphone for people of color seeking ultimate pleasure and sexual liberation. Ashley Cobb, “your favorite friend in filth” is dedicated to bringing the conversation of Black Sexuality to the forefront, and across generational lines. Ashley is a sexpert, blogger, and HIV Educator known for her fun, down to earth and practical commentary that's been featured in top media outlets to include Essence, Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, Women's Health, Self Magazine and many more. She's the creator of the sex entertainment and news website, Gossip and Gasms as well the sex advice columnist for Madame Noire. Ashley has a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion Education, is a certified Sex Coach and works as an HIV Prevention Specialist in Atlanta, GA.
Tequila D. Moore is a native of Augusta, GA. She is the proud owner-operator of SweetsByTequila. A treat-making business that caters to many events and or special moments in the lives of others. She also works full-time at the Augusta VA Medical center in the Nuclear Medicine / PET-Scan dept. where she has been serving and caring for our veterans for the last 17 years. She plays many roles in people’s lives but one she takes dear to heart is her role as ‘Mom’. She is the mother to the Beautiful Little Miss Skye Moore. On her self-care journey, Tequila is encouraging women to live in their purpose. She says, “We take on the role of taking care of everyone else, we often forget about US and what makes US happy.” We have to start back putting ourselves first. So that we may love from a place of being whole and healed.
One of her favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”
Megan Gerber is a REALTOR, COACH, and TRAINER. Her main goals are assisting clients, coaching, and mentoring Real Estate Agents. A specialist in working with first-time and sight-unseen homebuyers, she started her real estate career 16 years ago to give back to others. She works with sellers, buyers, investors, and all who need honest real estate guidance and assistance.
She coaches and mentors new real estate agents and agents who have been in real estate for several years or more. When new agents join the firm Megan assists with the onboarding process. She is admired by her colleagues and is known for being a subject matter expert and problem solver. Megan also serves on Longleaf Pines Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is responsible for the ultimate direction of the management of the affairs of the Association. She goes above and beyond the call of duty as a Realtor, Coach, and Trainer.
When she’s not working, she enjoys visiting softball fields to watch her daughter play travel ball. She’s an active volunteer with the homeless in Fayetteville. She regularly assists the less fortunate with lunches, job resources, networking, and providing basic essentials. She also volunteers with Toys-for-Tots. Megan is an awesome gift to humanity.
Noor Taleb was born and raised in Dallas, TX. Her parents are both immigrants who come from a Lebanese and Syrian lineage and have 3 brothers. She graduated college with a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Education and was a middle school Language Arts teacher for 6 years.
Currently, she is married and a mother of 3 young children. She spends her time caring for and maintaining their home. Additionally, she volunteers at her mosque, focusing on events for outreach and women. She also enjoys skateboarding, playing her guitar, and just spending time with family and friends.
Ann Marie Amico, who makes her living as an artist and designer, has been actively involved in the Fuquay-Varina community and Wake County through service in various organizations and committees for the last thirty-four years. She is currently the Facilitator for Leadership Fuquay-Varina. This program, offered through the FV Chamber of Commerce, creates a network of local citizens who understand the qualities of effective leaders, the functions of town government, and the local systems that create community. They are united in their intention to help move our community forward together. https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmarieamico/
Lisa McMillan is a lifelong resident of Greensboro, NC. She is the mother of 5 and grandmother of 3 amazing humans. In addition to her biological children, she has cared for dozens of children in her home and community. Kids are her business! Lisa stays committed to her motherhood journey by trusting God and following His direction daily through prayer, meditation, and education. A great amount of her time is spent listening and learning about how to be a better woman and mother through music, books, podcast, and events. She loves her family and friends more than the air she breathes.
Lisa is purposefully passionate about serving children and families, through education and advocacy. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, Magna Cum Laude, from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in 2011, while raising her five children as a single mother. Lisa enrolled at Charlotte School of Law and had the honor of being the student law representative for the immigration clinic before a car crash forced her to end that educational pursuit. Although she become disabled after the car crash, she continues to pivot, finding ways to help others. She believes in leading by example. Her days are filled with strategizing with individuals and families, on which opportunities would best move them just surviving to actually thriving, through her work at the nonprofit she founded in 2019, Turning Everything Around. Lisa additionally serves the community as the secretary of the Greensboro Transit Advisory Commission, co-chair of the Student Engagement and Recruitment Committee with the NC A&T Gate City Alumni Chapter, a 25-year member of the Guilford County Schools PTA, a proud member of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church and host a weekly, “T.E.A. Time Podcast,” where she shares tips and strategies with the public.
Samantha Thomas is Marketing Director of Valet Energy, co-host of the Millennial’s Search for Meaning podcast, and speaker on the Love Ethic. She is the founder of #JustChooseLove and the Love Summit, a business conference that brings awareness to the Love Ethic as a solution to global challenges. Samantha's work has been featured on FOX19, Real Leaders, The Huffington Post, and Yes! Magazine. She received a MSc in Global Prosperity at University College London, where she conducted research on the Love Ethic as a force for social justice. Learn more at justchooselove.com. Follow Samantha @lovebyst.
Tenikka Smith Hughes is an Emmy Award-winning evening anchor with CBS47 & FOX30 Action News Jax. The North Carolina native has worked in television news for nearly 20 years with stops in Charlotte, Memphis, and Macon. Tenikka is known for being a mentor and a compassionate, authentic leader in her newsroom. Tenikka also has a heart for children - spending countless hours visiting schools, camps, and churches reading to children and sharing her story, while promoting the importance of literacy and education. She is the driving force behind “Tenikka’s Books for Kids,” an annual book collection drive launched in 2018. The effort has put thousands of free books into the hands of Jacksonville-area children during the critical summer months, to help prevent the declines in reading and learning.
Tenikka is a proud HBCU graduate attending Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where she served as Miss Benedict College. She also earned a Master of Journalism from the University of Maryland at College Park.
Genel Lee Webb is a native of Bladen County, North Carolina. By way of Chapel Hill and Durham, she along with her husband and two sons, became residents of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, in 2004. In 2005, she founded a home health care company, CenterPeace Home HealthCare & Companion Services. For sixteen years, the company served many residents in southern Wake County. In 2021, CenterPeace was sold, and she retired with excitement, anticipating the next season of life! Prior to becoming a business owner, Genel worked for Verizon, for 20 years in Research Triangle Park. She also owned and operated CenterPeace Publishing for several years.
Currently, Genel serves as a Board member on the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce. She is the Chairperson of the Chamber’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council. Additionally, Genel is an appointed member of the Fuquay-Varina Board of Adjustments. She is a past board member of FACES - Family and Community Empowerment Services (Secretary) and the Cultural Arts Society of Fuquay-Varina (Co-Chair of 2019 MLK Celebration). Genel also served as a committee member on the Fuquay-Varina Consumer Advisory Council of the United States Postal Service.
Genel has held certification as a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), and currently, she is a member of the Association of Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina. She has also volunteered as a Wake County Meals on Wheels driver.
Genel greatly cherishes the blessing of spending time with family and friends, and she recently achieved the status of retirement. She loves authentic conversation and getting to know new people. She enjoys writing and contends that everyone has an interesting story. She loves books that cause reflections of one’s life and offers instructions as to how to navigate this one beautiful life, successfully --- including and most importantly the bible!
In the field of higher education, Dr. Kellie M. Dixon is committed to the space and work done at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As a student affairs professional, and assessment professional, she empowers others to reflect on the narratives that haven't been written about HBCUs and write them, unapologetically. Her research includes institutional effectiveness, assessment, Black womyn in higher education, Black male achievement, student engagement, and HBCUs.
Dr. Dixon is a highly qualified expert as a student affairs administrator with over seven years of experience in housing and residence life, multicultural affairs, staff development, and assessment. Though she has worked with different types of institutions, she specializes in historically Black colleges and universities. She has demonstrated success in strategic planning, assessment, institutional effectiveness, and student engagement. Currently, Dr. Dixon oversees student affairs assessment and staff development in North Carolina.
Dr. Dixon is also a well-recognized mentor to students (undergrad/grad/doctoral) and new professionals. She is the CEO/Founder of Clear Pathway Consulting Services, LLC.
Dr. Dixon is affectionally known as Dr. K, Assessment Queen, Storyteller for Student Affairs at HBCUs!
Abiyah Baht Yashraal is the owner and creator of Abyah's Qodesh closet, where she makes homemade soap Shea Butter and TzitZits. She is a veteran of the United States Army and has retired from the Department of Justice as well.
In her spare time, she is a notary and loan signing agent. Her passion is being a stay-at-home mom and wife. She is Torah Observant and enjoys reading The Word of Yahuah. Her values are deeply rooted in Yahuah's word and loving and caring for other like-minded people.
Her personal interests are in homeschooling, being creative, and volunteering. Lastly, she enjoys helping her Ish (Husband) in ministry, Path to Yahuah.
Kristina Natt och Dag has a Ph.D. in Educational Research and Policy Analysis from North Carolina State University. Her specific research areas are authentic and ethical leadership as well as women and leadership. She has a Master in Human Rights from Lund’s University in Lund, Sweden, and has been working in the field of training and development in the corporate as well as the non-profit sector. She joined the North Carolina Medical Society Foundation in 2014 and holds the position of Vice President of Education & Training. She is also an adjunct with Campbell School of Osteopathic Medicine where she teaches a course on the successful clinical leader. She is a foodie and enjoys baking and cooking as well as being outdoors with her family, whether skiing, biking, hiking, playing tennis, or boating. She recently co-founded a foundation to address the quality of air in the local community. She lives outside Raleigh with her husband Magnus and their two children, Alexander and Emma, and their little dog with a big name, Ivan.
Kristie Tolbert is a native of Augusta, Georgia. She is a graduate of Paine College where she earned her B.S. in Mathematics and became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She later earned her Master's in Business Accountancy from the University of Phoenix.
After her mom passed in 2012 from cancer, baking part-time was one of the ways she coped with her passing and in turn, created Kalila's Kupcakes where she bakes simple and delicious treats from scratch. Her slogan is: "If I can't Eat it, I won't Bake it". Most people ask "why"? Since converting to Islam, she's had to take a different approach to baking treats that don't contain non-halal products.
In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, taking walks, and spending time with family and friends.
God's prompting and Susan Henson's heart for the innocent led her to found Pharaoh’s Daughter for babies born into the NC penal system. Burdened by the lack of viable options for women newly released from prison, the program was expanded to include the mothers. Pharaoh's Daughter takes a holistic approach to encourage the health and well-being of women with families who have been in prison and have suffered other traumas, offering education in hard skills, soft skills, and mentoring, enabling these families the opportunity for long-term sustainability. Susan and her team work hard to keep families together throughout incarceration and beyond! Inquire at www.PharaohsDaughterNC.org
Carmen Jimenez-Pride is the founder and Executive Director of Outspoken Counseling and Consulting. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Certified EMDR Therapist, Internal Family Systems Therapist, Registered Yoga Teacher, Registered Children Yoga Teacher and a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator. Carmen is also a LEGO® Serious Play® Facilitator. Carmen is the developer of Diversity in Play Therapy Inc.; and creator/organizer of the 2020 Diversity in Play Therapy Summit.
Carmen received her Bachelor of Social Work with a certificate in Child Protective Services from Benedict College. She was then accepted into the advanced standing program at the University of South Carolina earning a Master of Social Work with a focus on communities and organizations. Carmen’s passion is youth/ children, and she has dedicated herself not only to enriching the lives of children but also to providing the tools and curriculum for clinicians to ensure her goal to reach others has an even farther span in society.
Carmen is experienced in the clinical treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with culturally diverse backgrounds addressing a wide range of concerns. Carmen’s career in the mental health field spans more than 15 years. Carmen has extensive training in the sand tray, play therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Adlerian Play Therapy. Her experience as a therapist, consultant, trainer, educator, coach, and author encompasses Carmen’s approach to practice, which is “Together We Will Grow”
Dionne DG McGee is a Transformational Leader. Motivating, Empowering, Inspiring speaker, change agent, and thought-guru. Dionne McGee brings her insane energy and compelling empathy for women in leadership to her speaking, writing, and coaching roles. Her career, built on more than 20 years of corporate life, has included in excess of a decade in the executive suite. What she’s learned there has been by turns painful and powerful.
With a special heart for women in the workplace, Dionne has become a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion. Today, she’s using her unique talents to help other budding leaders find their best selves, gain new courage, and embrace their dreams. With a solid foundation in excellence, ethics, and entrepreneurship, her approach resonates with those seeking to find their places in leadership. Today, Dionne is recognized as a powerful motivational speaker, coach, consultant, and now—author. She has had the good fortune to travel the country to inspire thousands to chase after their dreams and goals and not settle for the status quo. “We must be fulfilled; otherwise what’s the point of being here? We should live life to the fullest, not just exist. Our voices must be heard in order for us to leave a legacy.” Find Your ROAR.
Evelyn D. Ellis is the daughter of the late Rev. John M. Ellis and Thelma G. Ellis. She is a graduate of Boggs Academy in Keysville, Georgia. Ms. Ellis received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, and did graduate study at both San Jose State University, San Jose California, and at Augusta College (now Augusta University). She received her Graduate Music Teaching Certificate from Kodaly Musical Training Institute in Watertown, Massachusetts.
During her years as a teacher, Ms. Ellis has taught across the country in places such as the Fulton County School System in Atlanta; the Cupertino, California School System; Framingham Massachusetts School System; Greensboro North Carolina School System; Charleston South Carolina, School System; and the Burke County School System in Waynesboro, Georgia. Ms. Ellis has retired from teaching in the Richmond County School System, where she worked for sixteen years. Over the years, Ms. Ellis has also served as a musician for several area churches, and she has been the recipient of many awards and recognitions which include the Women of Excellence Award in the Arts by the CSRA Girl Scout League in May 2003; the President’s Award given by the Greater Augusta Arts Council in 2005, and the Giving Your Best Award from Channel 6 Television in Augusta, Georgia also in 2005. In the fall of 2006, Ms. Ellis was finally able to realize a long-time dream when she entered Erskine Theological Seminary to pursue a Master of Theology/Divinity degree. In 2009 she achieved the fulfillment of that dream when she successfully completed her Master of Divinity Degree. In the fall of 2010, she successfully completed all ordination exams, and in 2011 she was ordained and installed as Pastor in the Westminster Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) in Waynesboro, GA.
Not only is Ms. Ellis the proud mother of two sons, Paul and Christopher Johnson, the proud grandmother of Korey Johnson, she is also the adopted mother of many members of Barefoot Productions, Inc. /Creative Impressions (past and present). Her unfailing dedication and hard work has set the standard for the quality of the organization’s performances and is also the reason for the success that the group
Nikki Webb a.k.a. Ladi Bounce is an Intervention Specialist and Special Education Coordinator, DJ, and Co-host of the Fly With Us Podcast. She is a proud Daytonian and community advocate. Ladi Bounce is also a graduate of Central State University and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education.~ Intervention Specialist. Ladi Bounce is a 2019 recipient of the Ambition Award presented by Ambition Magazine.
Ladi Bounce has always had a knack for sensing the needs of others and trying to fulfill those needs. The people on this Earth with the greatest needs are children. She brings her areas of knowledge and expertise in brain science and Self-Care to each episode to enhance the lives of others. A ‘natural born teacher’, Ladi Bounce has a strong desire to share her ideas and inspire those around her. She takes her commitment to her students and their families very seriously. Her favorite quote is by Maya Angelou; “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something”.
Ladi Bounce is doing her ‘something’ every day to make those in her care a little better, stronger, smarter, and a little more ready to take on the world. She can be seen and heard playing your favorite songs from 8 pm-12 am at The Barrel House on the third Friday of each month for “Fenom Friday”. The Fly With Us Podcast is a podcast about simple things and ways to take better care of yourself and your mental wellness. The weekly episodes can be found wherever you get your favorite podcasts, social media, and YouTube. Fly With Us Podcast was the winner of Dayton’s Best Podcast 2021 in the Best of Dayton Competition.
After Years of uplifting and encouraging through song, Deshanna “Niki” Elmore expanded her reach by creating the I’m Not My Yesterday blog. A space created to share her stories of overcoming insecurities, low self-esteem, grief, and unforgiveness. Through these stories we are reminded that our yesterday doesn’t define who we are today. She hopes that her blog will encourage women, as well as men, to exhale and make room for greater.
Dr. Aneta Bhojwani Hopkins has over a decade of experience in counseling children and adults who have DSM diagnoses. She conducts intakes, assessments, individual therapy, family therapy, crisis management, and various other services individualized to her clients’ needs. She has also conducted Parenting workshops and facilitated workshops on topics such as Group Building, Leadership Skills, Positive Discipline in the Classroom, Working with Children of Poverty, and various other topics.
Additionally, Aneta has more than a decade of experience in Higher Education management and teaching. She has held positions such as College Campus Chair and Program Director for local colleges, with responsibilities that include hiring, training, managing, and evaluating instructors, and Lead Faculty Area Chair Faculty Members, reviewing curriculum and working with committees to improve curriculum and student engagement.
Makeithra (Ketra) Evans is a native of Chapel Hill, NC by way of Creedmoor NC. I am the proud owner of Ketras Kreations and Devine Destiny. Ketras Kreations is her home-based handcrafted items made from scratch; items such as flower arrangements, porch signs, wall decor of different styles, and noodle boards just to name a few. Apparel designs as well such as vinyl and heat pressed shirts, hats, pants, sweatshirts, custom socks, etc. She is married to the love of her life Gregory Evans Sr. of coming upon 9 years as of April 2022. They have a blended family of 3 adult women and 3 adult men along with 4 grandboys and 2 grandgirls. Family is very important to her as the journey of obstacles has been too familiar these last few years but, Now Faith is the substance of things hoped and the Evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1) Just one scripture that has been got Mrs. Evans through.
I enjoy meeting new people, going to church, encouraging even when I myself may be discouraged, I enjoy learning new things as they are presented to me from food to wisdom of various life experiences. As one may know me from Finding Patience the original stage play I was Patience. I must say that was one of the most dynamic opportunities I've ever experienced on the stage play platform. I'm extremely honored to have been nominated along with other phenomenal women as we celebrate Woman of many hats this month.
Carla Tuttle is a NC native, originally from the western part of the state and now residing in Holly Springs. Professionally, she has been a secondary English teacher for 28 years, working with remedial, honors, and AP students and providing academic support to at-risk students. She is a two-time Teacher of the Year and was a finalist for WCPSS Teacher of the Year in 2009. Carla has National Board Certification for Professional Teaching standards and has written curriculum for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.
Personally, she has been married to her husband Greg for almost 29 years. She is a distance runner, an avid reader, and has a heart for helping others. Passionate about racial, educational, and economic equity, Carla is an advocate for social justice and improving her community. She planned and organized No Miles Between Us Virtual Run 4 Justice in 2020, a successful fundraiser for NC Justice Center, and has organized community nights at a local high school for students to share research about systemic injustice.
Ms. Jovita Simons is a successful entrepreneur, child advocate, leadership trainer and has owned and operated a retail business for the past 20+ years. She holds a master’s degree in public administration in Govt and a BA in Sociology. Her business degree is from life experience, loss, sacrifice, and hard work. In New York City (NYCCC) she primarily worked in the nonprofit sector for community-based organizations that focused on youth leadership and development. She was a member of the Coalition for $200 million and eventually was Chairperson. This group lobbied for funding for what is now a national federally funded program called Youthbuild. Ms. Simons was appointed to public office under the leadership of Manhattan Borough President Ruth Messenger and served as Director of Community Services and a policy analyst.
This chapter of her life has proven to be the most challenging, rewarding, and exceptional experience thus far. She is presently writing a book that focuses on success for those willing to use their courage, inner skills, drive, and motivation to step off the grid. Her goals are to have a screenplay written and produced based on the book, continue to increase, and develop multiple streams of passive income and move into retirement comfortably and for an exceptionally long time!
Glenda Evans-Walston, a Fuquay-Varina native, was born to a brick mason and care provider and at a very young age was taught the importance of hard work and giving back. Glenda, the youngest girl of nine, graduated from Fuquay-Varina High School in 1983 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from St Augustine College in Raleigh. It was shortly after that Glenda began her work in the mental health field working with adults with intellectual disabilities with her intentions set on helping others.
While working with her clients that she affectionately refers to as her “guys”, Glenda found her next calling in helping children when she was asked to organize a before and after school program and summer camp out of her home church’s family life center. Being the tenacious woman that she is, she graciously accepted and went on to facilitate the programs, mentoring over 100 children in the community along the way. Through that avenue, Glenda was also able to advocate for those children within the school system. To know “Mrs. Glenda” is to know someone who when given a problem will provide a solution. She has made it her life’s mission to help those in need and uplift the Fuquay-Varina community.
From advocating for the youth in the community, volunteering at schools, continuing her work with individuals with intellectual disabilities, to running a successful company focused on the advancement of her clients, Glenda’s passion stems from helping others. Now, Glenda is a pillar of the community volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church, and other various businesses in the community that delivers meals to those in need. When she’s not volunteering, she’s serving on the Fuquay-Varina Community Alliance Committee to advocate for the betterment of Fuquay-Varina. While the next chapter of her community activism journey has not yet been written, one thing for sure is that she will continue to serve her community and do so with a smile on her face.
Queen Esther Wright Dawson lives up to her name Queen. She is the hands and feet of Jesus, a Philanthropist, and Humanitarian. Queen’s story of giving back to the community started at a very young age. As a teenager, she helped take care of her great-grandmother and her blind uncle. As a young adult, she cared for those who were sick and in need. That’s how she met her husband. She was taking a gift to a young girl who was about to have heart surgery, not realizing that she would meet the love of her life. She organized the young children in the community and talk to them about God and started a children’s choir. Her love for people continued after she married her husband. She and her husband visited local nursing homes to display love and to share God’s word with the residents who were often forgotten. Her fondness for the elderly population continues to this day. She adopted one elderly lady that she met during delivering meals on wheels. Mrs. Dawson, would check on her, take her on various outings, and took her to church until the elderly lady passed a few years ago at the age of 94.
She also transported one of her older neighbors periodically and took her to dialysis. The lady leges were amputated, but Mrs. Dawson ensured that her neighbor was taken to early morning dialysis when needed. Many children that have grown up in her community fondly know her as Mrs. Dawson or Mother Dawson.
She and her husband, Bishop Leo F. Dawson, Sr. of 44 years have five adult children but have served as Mother to many. Housing the homeless, feeding those who were hungry, and clothing those in need. Two years ago, at the age of 68, Mrs. Dawson launched her 501 C3 non-profit called Queen’s Community Outreach. She utilizes her own funds to partner with local stores to obtain donations to give to people in her community. Her non-profit has donated school supplies to area schools. She has also donated clothes, household items, heaters, and fans to families in need. She has hosted multiple community giveaways throughout North Carolina. During the holidays she partners with local groups to donate toys to children in need. Prior to COVID Mrs. Dawson volunteered at Ramsey St. Alternative, T.C. Berrian, and Alger B. Wilkins, Ashley schools as a mentor. Her wisdom and love helped many children at those schools move forward in doing positive things in life. She also volunteered with the Community Awareness Alliance of Cumberland County. She is a confidant, prayer warrior, and an amazing giver to society. She is an avid walker; walking at least 3 to 4 times a week and at least 8 to 10 miles a day. She credits God for giving her the strength to do what she does daily. She has the energy of a teenager and is loved by many. Her favorite scriptures are Matthew 22: 37-39 and Proverbs 18: 21-22.
Tiffany Jones is a Warrior, Veteran, Trainer, and Real Estate Guru. She was born in Thomasville, Georgia but was raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from high school with honors and joined the Army in 1993. She served in two combat wars: one in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. She retired in June 2020 after 26 years of service. But what many people don’t know is that before she ever stepped foot on the battlefields of foreign soil; she started fighting battles at a young age. She grew up poor and was raised by a mentally ill mother. Tiffany was raped at the age of 4-years old and almost died. This atrocity haunted her for years. She entered trauma therapy to help her cope with having her innocent stolen and being sexually assaulted at a young age. Tiffany has not shared this part of her life with many people but felt compelled to share her story during Women’s History Month because so many other women have suffered from rape. She was a teen mom but didn’t allow that from preventing her from moving forward in life. She wants others to know that they are not alone and that even though she was a victim, she is now a victor. She also wants others to know that they too can arise from the ashes of pain and betrayal and build a pyramid of hope and success.
Tiffany is married to Edward Jones, and they have a blended family of six children. She is a graduate of Wayland Baptist college with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration; she is the first college graduate in her immediate family. She enjoys helping others realize their dreams and loves teaching. She has a passion for real estate. She and Edward are both Realtors with Team Jones Realty powered by Coldwell Banker Advantage. She has an interest in providing affordable housing to underprivileged members in her community. She has a desire to influence others to become real estate agents and wants them to know that they can become real estate moguls. She is also passionate about supporting small businesses and minority-owned businesses. Experiencing poverty as a child, Tiffany knew what it was to look for gifts for Christmas and not have any to open. Hence, she knew that she wanted to give back to her community. She currently serves as The Toys For Tots Coordinator. She has been the Coordinator for two years and has supported over 11,000 children. During her spare time, she loves spending time with her family and thrifting
Love Is A Parable- an initiative and movement that later became an organization within itself. Love is A Parable is a DBA and subsidiary of Altar and Dwelling Place, Inc. We are a charitable and an educational 501c3 organization, who provides character, social, and leadership development to those who desire value-based education, reflective storytelling, and the promotion of personal acceptance through a reflective thinking approach and sacred-box theory.
