ABOUT ME
Where I Come From
I was born in New London, Connecticut, and my family moved back to North Carolina when I was 2 years old. I grew up on a farm in the rural community of Pleasant Grove, which is located outside the city limits of Burlington, NC. The most important mentors in my life were my mother and my grandmother. I remember my mother working long hours, sometimes on the weekends, but still making the time to take my siblings and me to school events.
As I reflect on all of the sacrifices she made for me to succeed, there are not enough words to express how truly grateful I am. She taught me to strive for greatness and to work hard to achieve all of my goals. My grandmother was also an inspiration as she worked hard to support the family and never complained. I learned great work ethics from my mother and grandparents, who provided a cultivating environment for me.
My Journey
My first introduction to science and engineering was learning how to “cure” and “prime” tobacco on my grandfather’s farm. My curiosity with science led me to North Carolina State University (NCSU) where I pursued a B.S. degree in Computer Science. College provided a great experience for creating new friendships that have lasted throughout the years. I successfully utilized many of the established and informal networks for students of color. Specifically, peer mentors and study groups were my saving grace.
During my sophomore year at NCSU, I began to notice the activities of the Mu Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I became friends with many of the members and we shared a common interest of community service. I was initiated during my junior year on March 21, 1987. Joining Delta Sigma Theta is one of the best decisions I made in my life.
After graduating with my bachelors degree, I joined the Raleigh Alumnae Chapter. The chapter included 100+ members in 1988 and was a little intimidating. However, the members quickly embraced me and several of my line sisters. I was appointed to chapter committees, which helped me to become more comfortable and knowledgeable about our sisterhood.
While in Raleigh, NC, I worked at several companies in Research Triangle Park until I decided to seek a M.S. degree in Management with a minor in Management Information Systems from North Carolina State University. After earning my masters degree, I taught for two years in the Department of Computer Information Systems at Shaw University and then turned my attention to earning a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology at the University of Georgia.
Continuing to Grow
I moved from Georgia to Missouri for my second academic position. At the University of Missouri, I survived the “publish or perish” culture and was able to move through the ranks to Full Professor in the School of Information Science & Learning Technologies (SISLT).
I was chosen by my peers to serve as the Director of the SISLT. It was a rewarding experience to lead a group of scholars as we prepared students for the workforce in technology-enhanced learning environments.
Currently, I am the Associate Dean of Engagement & Outreach in the College of Education and Human Development. I lead eight engagement units that have over 300 staff. This role aligns with my passion to provide services that enrich our communities.
Although most of my family is in North Carolina, I have gained an additional family with my sorors in the Columbia (MO) Alumnae Chapter. Each member has had an impact on my professional and personal growth.
My journey to this point in time has been filled with many accomplishments and some disappointments. However, I do believe that every lesson was important in preparing me to be a leader. My professional achievements, organizational service, and corporate background have honed my leadership skills and expertise in developing people to lead in an objective, equitable, and inclusive manner.
