Louisiana Volume 2 Issue 2 by AMPS Magazine

GRAND OPENING

Volume 2, Issue 2

A WORD FROM THE CEO

This is the eighth issue of AMPS Magazine, Louisiana Edition. I wanted to thank each and every one of you for reading this magazine and making it one of the fastest growing magazines in the south in 2022 We are touching the lives of people who we did not even know we would and inspire even a culture that we were unaware. This publication is called A.M.P.S. (American-Minority People Succeeding) for a reason. It is where Substance and Style meets Supreme Standards. Our mission is “superior application development through dedicated professionalism while maintaining a customer-centered focus to lead the industry in ideas and creative solutions”. Our event marketing and promotions department is designed to present positive entertainment and events that the Louisiana communities deserve. We specialize in helping brands create a unique connection with consumers at our events as well as create an opportunity for you to meet other business owners, executives, present and future customers, and other socialites. Simply put, “We are Accomplished By Making You Successful.”

Gerald D. Wright CEO

from the publisher

As we step into 2025, AMPS Louisiana Magazine is excited to continue our journey of serving and connecting with the vibrant communities across Louisiana. Our commitment to sharing stories that matter, big or small, is what drives us forward. We believe every community has a unique story to tell, and we are here to help you share yours. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand your reach or someone with a passion for community involvement, we want to help amplify your voice. We also take pride in motivating the next generation by showing kids that they can achieve anything with determination and hard work. Join us in this exciting year of growth and opportunity—together, we can continue to support and uplift our communities. For more information about advertising or to subscribe, reach out to us at connie@ampsmagazine.com or call (214) 937-9041.

Thank you for your continued support.

Connie Morgan

5ebastian’s

Boutique

Toria Adams and Derrick Wells, both native Louisianans, have built a legacy of passion, creativity, and hard work. Toria Born in Columbia and Derrick born in Monroe, Louisiana, respectively, the couple’s journey began at Ouachita High School, where they both graduated. Derrick, a licensed barber and fashion enthusiast, has been cutting hair since his teenage years. His love for fashion has always been evident, as he recalls experimenting with colorful wristband socks to match his outfits as a child. Shoes, especially sneakers, have always been one of his greatest loves, and he’s now a well-known barber in Monroe. Derrick’s fashion sense extends beyond hair and clothing; he created a sketch of 29 ovals with a #5 logo a decade ago, which eventually became the symbol for his clothing line. Derrick prides himself on his fresh look, making sure he always looks sharp from head to toe—whether it’s his hair, clothes, shoes, jewelry, or even the vehicles he drives. Music and good food are also key elements of his lifestyle. The inspiration behind the name of their boutique, 5ebastian’s, came when their youngest son, Sebastian, was five years old. After writing

his name on a piece of paper in a scribbled style, Derrick had the idea to replace the “S” with a “5,” creating a memorable brand name. Toria, in addition to being a licensed realtor in Monroe for over 14 years, is a talented decorator and designer with a keen eye for fashion. She’s well-known not only for selling houses but also for her iconic mohawk hairstyle, earning her the nickname “The Lady with the Mohawk.” Together, Derrick and Toria have taken their passion for fashion to new heights with their 5ebastian’s Boutique, offering a range of stylish clothing and accessories. They’ve also launched another brand, 5wampz x jokesup, which offers a unique camouflage-inspired clothing line. One of their notable creations is a shoe featuring Toria’s face on the side, blending their love for fashion with their personal touch. As they continue to grow their business, the couple is excited about what the future holds. They invite everyone to follow their journey and stay updated on their latest offerings by visiting www.5ebastianboutique.com. For Derrick and Toria, this is just the beginning.

Educator

JoMeka Gray was born and reared in Corey, Louisiana, where her journey to becoming a dedicated educator began. After graduating from high school, JoMeka made the decision to pursue higher education at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana. Initially, she majored in sociology, but over time, she realized that her true passion lay in a different direction. She switched her focus to General Liberal Arts and ultimately earned her degree. With a strong desire to continue learning and growing, JoMeka returned to school to pursue her master’s degree, with plans to one day open a juvenile home for children in need of support. Unfortunately, life took her in a different direction, and her plans did not unfold as she had originally envisioned. JoMeka credits her parents as her first teachers, instilling in her a love of learning and the values that would shape her future career. After completing her studies, she took a position as a kindergarten teacher with Temple ISD in Temple, Texas. When asked why she chose to teach kindergarten, JoMeka explained that she believes it is one of the most important grades in a child’s educational journey. She feels that kindergarten serves as the foundation for sparking children’s interest in learning, especially in a state like Texas, where not all children are required to attend kindergarten. Many children who come into kindergarten without a strong foundation from pre-K are already behind, and JoMeka understands the critical role kindergarten plays in closing those gaps. In Texas, many children enter kindergarten without the

skills necessary to succeed because they skipped pre-K or did not have access to early childhood education. JoMeka advocates for increasing access to pre-elementary education and believes that once children fall behind, it is incredibly difficult for them to catch up. She also notes that since the pandemic, more parents have chosen to send their children directly to first grade, bypassing kindergarten altogether. Unfortunately, some of these children are not prepared for the demands of first grade, with some not even being able to write their own names. JoMeka sees this as a critical issue, as early childhood education lays the foundation for academic success throughout a child’s entire educational career.

JoMeka’s dedication to her students and her profession was recently recognized when she was named the 2025 Region 12 Elementary Teacher of the Year out of 77 school districts in the 12-county education region. Reflecting on this honor, JoMeka expressed that it was humbling, especially considering where she came from. She sees her achievement as an opportunity to show her students what hard work and dedication can accomplish. Her recognition is not only a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for her colleagues, as it shows that someone is advocating for them and that, together, they can push through challenges in their profession.

In addition to her work in the classroom, JoMeka is actively involved in several committees that focus on improving education at both the local and state levels. She serves on two committees for her school district. One committee focuses on high-quality structural materials, and JoMeka played an instrumental role in testing materials for House Bill 1605. The other committee is responsible for determining the needs of each school in the district by working closely with community members. JoMeka is also active at the state level, serving on two committees. She is a member of the advocacy group Teach Plus and holds the position of senior fellow. As a senior fellow, JoMeka leads a group of teachers across Texas, helping them to advocate for educational policy and practices that benefit both students and educators. Furthermore, JoMeka serves on a committee that advocates for teacher retention, helping to ensure that educators are supported and able to thrive in their careers, as teaching is not a profession suited for everyone.

Fitness,Trainer, Educator, Role Model

Teach One,” with a focus on mentorship, leadership, and community service. The group aims to create lasting impacts by guiding young people in the right direction, teaching them valuable life skills, and providing positive role models who lead by example. Carl Wesley, one of the members of the Salt & Pepper Gang, is a perfect example of this mission. With his background in sports, business, and education, he brings a unique perspective to the group and is deeply invested in making a difference in the lives of young people. His transition from a business owner as a personal trainer to becoming a teacher speaks volumes about his dedication to growth and the well-being of those around him.

Carl’s journey is a reflection of his belief in destiny and living with purpose. His transition from a personal trainer, a profession that lacked the consistency and benefits he desired, to teaching first grade, was fueled by his desire to make a more significant impact on his community. In his own words, being a business owner didn’t provide him with the stability or retirement security he needed. “As a personal trainer, if you lost a client, you had to go find another one to make sure the money kept coming in,” he recalls. This lack of job security motivated him to pivot into education, a field where he could provide stability for himself and his family while also contributing to the development of future generations.

Carl is passionate about his role as an educator, and it shows in the way he speaks about his work. He is driven by the belief that he has a responsibility to give back to the community. As a teacher, he finds himself particularly triggered by the struggles of the younger generation, especially those who look like him and are involved in activities that are detrimental to their well-being. His experiences with the Salt & Pepper Gang have further reinforced his commitment to serving as a positive influence on young people. The group’s initiatives, such as the Kids and Cops program, aim to build trust between children and law enforcement while showing young boys how to present themselves with pride and confidence. Carl believes that by providing mentorship, they can help guide the youth toward better paths and away from negative influences. The Salt & Pepper Gang is much more than just a group of well-dressed men. They are a collective of individuals who see themselves as leaders and mentors, striving to positive-

ly impact the community by providing guidance, support, and inspiration. Carl, along with his fellow members, takes pride in their role as mentors, teaching young people the importance of character, respect, and self-worth. He shares that his first experience with the group was a profound one—being surrounded by men who not only shared his values but also embodied the type of man he wanted to be. He acknowledges that finding like-minded individuals who are both positive and empowering can be difficult, but being a part of the Salt & Pepper Gang has given him the sense of belonging and purpose that he had been searching for.

Carl’s life is a delicate balance between his personal and professional roles, and he embraces this fluidity. He doesn’t need to consciously separate his personal life from his business life because he is naturally adaptable. “I understand my position wherever I am, and I become a chameleon to the situation,” he explains. This ability to blend seamlessly into various environments reflects his understanding of his responsibilities, both as a member of the Salt & Pepper Gang and as a teacher. He is always aware of the influence he has on others and strives to lead by example, showing those around him the importance of integrity, humility, and self-respect.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being involved with the Salt & Pepper Gang is the sense of recognition and appreciation Carl feels when he and the other members are out in public. He recalls times when he has walked into a restaurant, only to be greeted by people holding up their phones to record him and his colleagues or asking for autographs. While this level of attention can make him feel like a celebrity, Carl remains grounded and grateful for the support and admiration. He describes it as a humbling ex-

perience that serves as a reminder of the positive impact they are making in the community.

The Salt & Pepper Gang’s community efforts are varied and impactful, and Carl is proud to be a part of them. In addition to their work with the Salvation Army during the holidays and their mentorship programs, they also engage in charitable activities such as visiting retirement homes, giving flowers to residents, and attending birthday parties for the elderly. These small acts of kindness are a testament to the group’s commitment to spreading love, respect, and positivity to all generations. The group’s outreach efforts aim to build stronger communities by promoting unity and understanding across different age groups, fostering a sense of connection and support that transcends generational divides.

Carl also values the work the group does with young boys, teaching them essential life skills such as how to tie a tie and the importance of dressing well. These lessons are designed not just to help them look sharp but to instill a sense of pride in their appearance and, by extension, in themselves. Carl is passionate about the message the Salt & Pepper Gang shares—one of confidence, self-respect, and leadership. By teaching young men to present themselves well, the group hopes to inspire them to lead productive, respectful lives and serve as positive role models for others.

As a member of the Salt & Pepper Gang, Carl is fulfilling his purpose of giving back to his community and educating future generations. His work as an educator, combined with his involvement in the group, allows him to lead by example and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him. Through his passion for teaching, mentoring, and serving his community, Carl Wesley is living proof that purpose-driven work can have a lasting impact on individuals, families, and entire communities.

adopted who?

On a national level, JoMeka is part of a small team of five people who work with the National Board of Certification. This team helps to shape the standards for teacher certification across the United States. In particular, JoMeka has been involved in rewriting the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), the standards on which the state’s STAAR tests are based. She was able to contribute to removing outdated standards and replacing them with new, more relevant ones. These changes will also have an impact on education in Louisiana, as new standards will be implemented there as well.

Despite her busy professional life, JoMeka always prioritizes her family. She credits them with providing the support and encouragement she needed to step out on faith and move to Texas to pursue her career. JoMeka reflects on a pivotal conversation with her parents that gave her the courage to leave her home state and venture into new opportunities. For JoMeka, home will always be a place of refuge—a place to return to if things don’t go as planned. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, hard work, and the importance of having a support system that believes in you.

JoMeka’s journey shows that success is not defined by one’s starting point but by the determination to push forward and make a difference. Her work as a teacher, advocate, and leader continues to impact the lives of students, teachers, and communities, and she remains dedicated to ensuring that all children receive the education and opportunities they deserve.

Continued from Page 8 Who

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Top Ladies of Distinction: Empowering Youth Through Leadership and Community Service

Introduction The Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to developing young leaders and fostering community service. Lady Gloria Kimes serves as Chapter President for Monroe. In Monroe, Louisiana, Lady Janet Davis, an educator with over 30 years of experience serves as the Top Teen Advisor. As the Top Teen Advisor, she has overseen tremendous growth in the Monroe chapter, which has expanded from 10 to 90 Top Teens in just five years. This article highlights the organization’s impact, its programs, and the opportunities it provides for youth in the community.

About Lady Janet Davis Lady Janet Davis has dedicated her career to education, serving as a teacher, computer lab coordinator, curriculum coordinator, and administrator. Currently, she is the Branch Manager at Ollie Burns Memorial Branch Library, a position she enjoys immensely. Her passion for education and youth development led her to the Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. where she mentors and guides young individuals to become future leaders. The Mission of Top Ladies of Distinction The primary goal of the organization is to shape young individuals into responsible and community-oriented leaders through the Top Teens of America program. The organization instills values of service, leadership, and personal development, ensuring that teens become active contributors to their communities. The Monroe Chapter has made remarkable strides under Lady Davis’s leadership, and the outstanding “Service to Youth Team” by empowering teens to engage in community service, leadership training, and educational opportunities.

Growth and Achievements of the Monroe Chapter Since Lady Davis took charge of the Top Teens program, membership has increased significantly. The Monroe Chapter now has 90 Top Teens actively participating in various initiatives. Twenty-five of these young individuals are preparing for the upcoming leadership conference in San Antonio, Texas, where they will compete in speaking, essay writing, talent showcases, and a Black History Bowl. The six senior teens attending will be [resented and recognized. Seven delegates will represent the chapter at the confer-

ence, with hopes of securing regional and national officer positions.

Leadership and Community Engagement The Monroe Chapter’s Top Teens actively contribute to their community through various projects, including:

• Supporting Seniors and Women: Engaging in activities that uplift and provide essential resources to senior citizens and women in need.

• Community Beautification: Organizing clean-up initiatives and beautification projects to improve the local environment.

• Educational Support: Encouraging academic excellence through essay competitions, scholarship opportunities, and leadership training.

• National Pink and Blue Day: A day dedicated to community service in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., during which teens organize blanket and hygiene drives to support local shelters, schools, and senior homes. Scholarship and Incentive Programs A unique aspect of the Monroe Chapter’s Top Teens program is its incentive-based scholarship system. Teens earn points through active participation in community service, leadership roles, and competitions. These points determine the financial awards they receive upon graduating. Every senior involved in the program is guaranteed some form of financial assistance and a care package to support their transition to college by their participation. The Top Teen Advisor will be able to write letters of recommendation based on earned hours of community service and points earned through teen participation. The organization ensures that all participating youth have the necessary resources to succeed in their academic and personal endeavors.

National Reach and Opportunities The Top Ladies of Distinction is a nationwide organization with chapters across the United States. The Monroe Chapter collaborates with other chapters, including those in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and California. Teens have the opportunity to attend national conferences, network with peers from other states, and gain exposure to diverse experiences. The

ability to transfer membership between chapters ensures continuity for teens who move to different states, allowing them to remain engaged in community service and leadership development.

Inclusivity and Accessibility The organization welcomes both male and female members, fostering a collaborative environment where all teens can thrive. Parents looking for an enriching program for their children are encouraged to consider the Top Teens of America, which provides mentorship, leadership training, and opportunities to engage in meaningful community service.

How Businesses and Individuals Can Support The Monroe Chapter relies on fundraising and community support to sustain its programs. Donations help cover expenses related to travel, accommodations, and participation in leadership conferences. Businesses and individuals can contribute by sponsoring a teen, providing financial assistance, or supporting community service initiatives. Contributions to the organization are tax-exempt, making it a viable philanthropic opportunity for those looking to invest in youth development.

Technology and Outreach To enhance outreach and engagement, the Monroe Chapter utilizes social media platforms such as Instagram. The chapter’s Instagram handle, @top_teens_monroe, showcases the work of the organization and serves as a resource for potential do-

nors, volunteers, and new members. The QR code linking to the Instagram page provides easy access to information about upcoming events and initiatives.

Conclusion The Monroe Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. has become a beacon of hope for young individuals seeking guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth. The organization’s commitment to community service, leadership development, and education has transformed the lives of many teens. Parents and businesses looking to support a meaningful cause should consider partnering with or contributing to the Top Teens of America. By investing in the next generation, we can create a stronger, more empowered community. For more information or to support the Monroe Chapter,

Lady Janet and the seniors, Teen Nicholas, Teen Micah, Teen Trumel, Teen Korie, Teen Jailah, and Teen Imani

Technology

Youth Expo

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, the Ouachita Job Center hosted its annual Youth Expo at the Monroe Civic Center, welcoming students from schools in the surrounding areas. This event provides an invaluable opportunity for young people to explore job prospects that align with their passions and interests. Beyond earning money, the event emphasizes the importance of responsibility and prepares students for the real world. A panel featuring professionals from various industries shared insights into diverse career paths, inspiring attendees to consider a wide range of possibilities. Local businesses also participated, creating a vibrant and engaging environment. AMPS Magazine would like to extend special thanks to Dexter Moffett for informing us about this wonderful event, and to Deela Woods for inviting us to be part of it. The Youth Expo was a huge success, and we look forward to attending again next year to continue supporting this fantastic initiative!

Musical Journey

Dexter Martin-Moffitt, a gifted musician and community advocate, hails from the small town of Columbia, Louisiana, located 30 miles south of Monroe. Her passion for music started early, and she has developed into an accomplished artist with a voice that most describes as “angelic.”

Dexter’s musical journey was inspired by her family, particularly her mother, who sang in the senior choir at

The Brownsville Baptist Church, and her older sister, Mrs. Betty Robinson, who not only led a youth choir but also served as their musician. Dexter fondly remembers accompanying her mother to choir rehearsals when she was just eight years old. It was during this time that she developed a profound love for music and a desire to learn to play instruments like the piano and organ. She was especially drawn to the piano, captivated by its sound and the way it resonated with her soul. These early influences from her family set the stage for her lifelong dedication to music.

When Dexter entered the sixth grade, she joined the school band, where she was introduced to the flute, an instrument that she would come to love. Under the guidance of Mr. Ennis King, the director of the Caldwell Parish Junior High Band, Dexter flourished. She fondly remembers Mr. King as the best band director the school ever had, and his mentorship played a crucial role in her musical development. Dexter chose the flute because she loved the instrument’s high-pitched sound, which complemented her soprano voice. Her dedication and talent were evident from the start, as she earned the coveted position of first chair flute, a role she held throughout high school. She even earned the prestigious John Philip Sousa Award, the highest musical honor that could be bestowed upon a Highschool music student, a recognition she shares with her late sister, Crystal Gail Martin Williams, who also

received that same award. This was just the beginning of Dexter’s musical accomplishments.

Throughout high school and into college, Dexter continued to play the flute, earning recognition as first chair Flutist throughout her academic years. At Grambling State University, she expanded her musical horizons by performing in various ensembles, including the jazz band, symphonic band, and orchestra. She also played the violin for a brief period, adding another string to her already impressive musical repertoire. Dexter majored in music education, laying the foundation for her future work as a teacher and mentor to young musicians. After graduating, Dexter moved to Dallas, Texas, where she lived for fifteen years. Despite her time away, she never lost her connection to Columbia, and eventually returned to her hometown, where she continues to be a source of inspiration and leadership in the community.

One of Dexter’s most significant contributions to her community has been her work with youth. In 1988, she founded the Caldwell Community Youth Choir, a testament to her passion for working with young people and fostering their musical talents. She loves working with youth because they are eager to learn, and she finds great joy in seeing young people come together to praise God with their voices. Dexter is in the process of recreating the choir, but this time with a broader vision. She plans to rename it the Caldwell Parish Community Youth and Young Adult Choir to make it inclusive of everyone in the parish, not just those in the Columbia area. Dexter is determined to break down the barriers that divide the community, regardless of race or background, and create a space where everyone is welcome. Her goal is to unite the community through music, helping people to look beyond their differences and work together to bring something positive to Caldwell Parish. Dexter is a firm believer in the power of faith and action. She often says, “Faith without works is dead,” emphasizing that while faith is essential, it is the work you put in that brings your dreams to life. Dexter has lived by this principle throughout her life, always taking proactive steps to achieve her goals and inspire others to do the same. She encourages others to step out in faith and pursue their dreams with determination, saying that simply wishing for success will not make it happen. Dexter be-

lieves that music has the power to transform lives, providing both a source of joy and a means of sustaining oneself through the challenges of life. She reflects on her own journey, saying that music has taken her far and continues to be the driving force in her life. From the age of six, when she first began her musical journey, to today, Dexter remains committed to the path that God instilled in her. She continues to walk that walk with passion, faith, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world around her. Get AMPS Apparel by Supporting Our Business

Who is Elizabeth Ford?

Elizabeth Ford, born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Elizabeth shared her deep roots in Northeast Louisiana and her family’s background. She comes from a family of educators—her parents, Jerry and Laverne Ford, were both educators, her brother followed the same path, and Elizabeth herself is an educator. At 42 years old, she reflected on her upbringing, noting how her family’s strong ties to education shaped her journey. Despite initially aspiring to become a nurse like many of her peers in elementary and middle school, Elizabeth’s trajectory shifted during her freshman year of high school when she began tutoring children at schools where her mother was a principal. It was through this work that she discovered her passion for education and community involvement. Elizabeth pursued her undergraduate studies at Grambling State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and psychology, and has since spent nearly 15 years in higher education.

Reflecting on her time at Grambling, Elizabeth expressed pride in her alma mater despite playful banter with the interviewer about her education at both Grambling State University and Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), where she completed her master’s degree. While attending Grambling, she changed her major and navigated the challenges of college life, including taking an extra year to graduate. Elizabeth found her HBCU experience invaluable, citing her involvement in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and her enjoyment of homecomings and Bayou Classic celebrations. She credits her time at these institutions with helping her grow academically and personally, emphasizing the supportive environments that allowed her to explore her career path and passions.

Elizabeth’s dedication to community service began early in life. Encouraged by her parents, she participated in a variety of extracurricular activities, from music and ballet to being a debutante, which helped her discover her interests. She found her calling in working with young people, believing her purpose is to assist in their development. This passion drives her involvement in community organizations. As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Elizabeth highlighted the organization’s focus on community service and Christian principles, which align with her values. Her commitment extends beyond the sorority; she has also founded the Dr. Laverne Gun Ford Foundation in honor of her late mother. Through this foundation, Elizabeth promotes literacy, supports classrooms at Carver Elementary School, and awards scholarships to students in Ouachita Parish. Her mother’s legacy continues to inspire Elizabeth’s work, and she plans to announce the next scholarship recipient on January 13, her mother’s birthday. Elizabeth spoke passionately about Delta Sigma Theta and its impact on her life. Founded on January 13, 1913, at How-

ard University, the sorority has been a significant part of her journey since she joined in 2002. Elizabeth expressed pride in the organization’s principles and the opportunities it provides for community service and Christian fellowship. She fondly recounted attending events like church services with her sorority sisters, which help strengthen their bonds and renew their shared commitment to service. Elizabeth’s connection to Delta Sigma Theta runs deep; her mother and aunt, who shares her name, were also members, making the sorority a family tradition that holds a special place in her heart.

Faith plays a central role in Elizabeth’s life. Rooted in Christian principles, she is actively involved in her church, where she spearheads events like the fall festival and participates in outreach programs. She credits her pastor, Roosevelt Wright, as a mentor and father figure who has profoundly influenced her dedication to community service. Elizabeth’s faith inspires her work and serves as the foundation for her personal and professional endeavors.

When asked about her aspirations, Elizabeth revealed her desire to pursue a doctorate. Although she started a doctoral program in her twenties, she did not complete it and now feels a renewed motivation to achieve this goal. Inspired by her mother, who earned her doctorate in 1981, Elizabeth views obtaining a doctoral degree as a way to honor her mother’s legacy and continue her family’s tradition of academic excellence. In addition to her professional ambitions, Elizabeth expressed a personal desire to marry and start a family. She remains optimistic about finding the right partner, emphasizing the importance of love and the strong foundation her parents provided. Elizabeth also discussed her interest in relocating, potentially to cities like Kansas City, Missouri, or Florida. She described herself as someone who prefers mid-sized cities and enjoys exploring places off the beaten path. Her attachment to Kansas City stems from cherished memories of a road trip with her mother to visit Kansas State University, where her mother earned her doctorate. Elizabeth’s adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace change reflect her openness to new opportunities both personally and professionally.

Throughout the interview, Elizabeth highlighted her involvement in various organizations and initiatives aimed at giving back to the community. In addition to her foundation and sorority, she works with local nonprofits like PEEP in Monroe, which provides Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance to families in need. Elizabeth’s passion for helping others extends to working with seniors, another demographic she feels strongly about supporting. She encourages others to get involved in community service, noting that opportunities are available

for those willing to take the initiative. She also shared her journey of learning about grant writing, a skill her mother excelled in, and the importance of persistence and organization in achieving success.

When asked about the impact of her foundation, Elizabeth shared her pride in its accomplishments since its inception in 2021. The Dr. LaVargne Gunn- Ford Foundation has awarded multiple scholarships, supporting students in Ouachita Parish as they pursue their educational goals. Elizabeth hopes to expand the foundation’s reach and impact, continuing to honor her mother’s legacy through education and community service.

Bryson McDowell

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