Board Member

Born in Texas, raised in New Orleans, I dedicated my life to improving the environment around me. Born with congenital hydrocephalus, I had a rough start. Just 4 months into my journey, I was on the operating table. Although my physical development would be slowed down, my parents worked hard to make up the difference by giving me all the attention I needed. As a result, I was walking by 18 months, reading by 3 years, and being identified as a gifted student by the age of 7. I was very active in my church and community. I was a reading tutor, young entrepreneur, theology student, violinist, and this was just the beginning. I was active in the Total Community Action youth store. I helped to build the store for young people to learn business and working skills.

After high school, I attended Macalester College and really started accelerating my immersion into community service. It was the pillar of community service that Macalester promoted that sparked my desire to attend there, and it turned out to be the best decision in my life.

I met so many of the people who shaped my journey, Kofi Annan, Walter and Joan Mondale, Jim Leher, Bill Clinton, Paul Wellstone, Lindy Boggs, Andy Dawkins, Mahmoud El-Kati, Howard Pinn, Ishmael Reed and many others.

These experiences lead me to become a teacher, mentor, realtor, human services representative, and community service leader. I am dedicated to leaving a legacy that makes the world a better place for all. I love without borders. My heart for my community is fueled by compassion for others, so I created 40 out of Poverty. This has given me a way to leave a legacy of support for the underserved in our community. The mission statement of 40 out of poverty is, “When everyone shares, no one goes without.” This is what Ilive by, and what I want to project into my community.