HEADQUARTERS: New York City
WEBSITE: www.girlsinc.org
BUSINESS: Nonprofit
REVENUES: $8.8 million
EMPLOYEES: 44
TITLE: Director of Research
EDUCATION: BS, Murray State University; MA, University of Memphis; PhD, University of Missouri-Columbia
WHAT I’M READING: The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
INTERESTS: Overseas travel and trying new cuisines

What lessons have you learned from business relationships?

I’ve learned that when you create a history of consistency, quality work product, and professionalism, combined with respecting others, then those relationships become lasting ones.

What do you think is the greatest issue or dilemma facing the African American community today?

I think the greatest dilemma facing the African American community today is finding ways to inspire and encourage more of our youth to use technology as a way to support life goals rather than allowing it to be a distraction from achieving greatness.

Are there any words of wisdom you would like to pass along to our readers?

I would share with readers that as long as you have breath, then there is hope for you to achieve goals that your talents and gifts support. Recognize that dreaming is not about a fantasy world when you are asleep, but if you can dream of what you desire while awake, then use those same eyes to see your way to that desired goal.