What do you do in your current job?
I lead the organization, which serves 3,000 individuals and families annually with direct multiservice programs in education, employment, housing, health and social justice.
I work collaboratively with the National Urban League and my board of directors to execute a strategic plan that aligns the agency’s mission with community needs and funding priorities. I also join with community stakeholders, including legislators, corporate and nonprofit partners and community members to advocate for racial equity and economic empowerment.
What have been your biggest professional accomplishments over the past year?
Over the past year, my biggest professional accomplishment has been managing the organization through COVID without having to reduce staff and maintaining all our programs and services. Not only that, but also expanding existing programs to further combat the impact of COVID.
We were selected by the National Urban League to be one of only four out of the 90 affiliates nationally to implement a community health equity initiative. Also significant in 2020 was being selected to be one of two Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s Connecticut Financial Opportunity Centers, providing integrated services to help individuals improve their personal financial positions.
In what ways are you involved in the community?
Breaking down structural and systemic barriers to equity is my highest priority for the community, so I am honored to serve on the MetroHartford Alliance Racial Equity & Economic Development Committee, the Root Center for Advanced Recovery Board of Directors and the University of Hartford Diversity Council.