MY FIRST JOB AND WHAT IT TAUGHT ME
My first professional job was a financial aid counselor at Louisiana State University. In this capacity, I gained valuable insight about the financial aid process, and I learned about the affordability disparities that existed — especially for African American families.
NONPROFIT I WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT
Philander Smith College is my HBCU and my nonprofit. It has a social justice mission of graduating academically accomplished students, who are grounded as advocates for social justice and determined to change the world for the better.
WHAT KEEPS ME COMING BACK TO MY JOB EVERY DAY
As the president of Philander Smith College, the students, their stories and their aspirations inspire me and cause me to want to work hard for them. PSC’s students are some of the brightest, most talented students in the world.
BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN MY CAREER
Advancing the HBCU relevance narrative in philanthropic spaces that don’t fully understand the value of HBCUs. After the racial uprising from the George Floyd movement, there has been an increased awareness of the value proposition of supporting HBCUs.
ONE PRACTICE I USE TO MAINTAIN MY MENTAL HEALTH
I pray, meditate and engage in some form of physical or mental exercise every day. I’m also actively engaged in the mission-focused work of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. The brotherhood engagement and community service are also therapeutic for me.
IN THE DETAILS
Hometown: Vidalia, LA
Last Local Purchase: Rental property
Natural Talent: Singing and public speaking
How I prepare on Sunday for the week ahead: Prayer and drafting a to-do list
Favorite Local Dish: Lindsey’s BBQ and Kitchen Express
Hobbies: Fishing, LSU football and my children and family
501.370.5275
philander.edu
900 Daisy Bates Drive
Little Rock
