100 Black Educators In Colorado by myblackcolorado

Portrait of Fannie Mae Duncan

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“We Guide and Inspire Others” “If you’ve been blessed with the vision to see a problem, you’ve an inherent responsibility to make a change. To the Black community: Stay educated, know yourself, and have a vision of who you want to be. For others who want to help: Assist in whatever way you feel necessary that paves the way without creating a handout; To everyone: if you see something, do something.” Spoken slowly and with conviction, these are the words of Colorado Springs businessman and veteran, Tariq Collins, Sr. The Bronx native settled his young family in the Pikes Peak region after Army service at Fort Carson. Today, Tariq helps lead a growing conglomerate of family businesses in Colorado Springs, Atlanta and Miami. “Through our family’s efforts, we guide and inspire others to take control of their lives and become their own boss,” said Tariq. “Our business lines include real estate and provide help to others with healthy foods, logistics, finance and business support.” In Colorado Springs, Tariq and his family shape the success of Business Service & Solutions, Inc., to empower individuals and cultivate entrepreneurs with tax preparation, business consultants, bookkeeping, business plan development and more. But he is equally involved in family businesses that buy and flip property; provide private car services; operate a farm-to-table restaurant model; and provide product packaging. “Growing up, we didn’t have wealth; our parents were our greatest assets,” said Tariq, one of 11 siblings. “Our parents taught us right from wrong and we listened.” In 2019 Tariq was certified to teach Google’s, “I am Remarkable,” course and he conducted it for the Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center. “The course allows everyone to help minorities and people of color to be seen, heard, and express themselves,” said Tariq. “It’s a great program, but not a cure for the hard social challenges the nation struggles with; but it’s a start.” The 90-minute session allows audiences to share their own truth as powerful testimonials. Tariq is proud to deliver the popular course at no charge. “It’s important to give back -- both as an entrepreneur and as a business owner,” said Tariq. “This is how you make the world a better place.”

T h a n k Yo u

To everyone who made this community initiative possible. It has taken many people to bring this together. We are excited to continue growing and expanding and being an enriching resource for our community and for those seeking to work with those in our community. Thank you for believing in us and what we are doing. Teamwork makes dreams work.

Brandon & Jini Bornes Founders of My Black Colorado

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Our Team Of Talented Professionals

Cynthia Camble Publishing Consultant

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How We Can Help You Creative Marketing We share our content through videos, pictures and stories. We utilize events, social media, email, print, text and our website to distribute content.

Tina Adams Writer

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Comprehensive Database We are developing a one of a kind, online database. It features black business owners, Professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, community servants and civic & social organizations throughout Colorado. Business Consultation Our team of professionals span across multiple industries and are here to help you excel in what you do best. Community Engagement If you are looking to get engaged in your community, we can refer you to the right organization or person to help you get connected.

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OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES

Brandon & Jini Bornes

Founders of My Black Colorado

Our Mission

To facilitate and cultivate a cohesive ecosystem of the local black community to inspire, innovate and connect local areas together.

Our V i s ion | A Lo ve Tha t N e ver Fa i l s We often worry that we don’t have enough resources in our community to go around. When we see someone in our community doing what we do but better, we get a little nervous or intimidated. Instead of using competition to spur on our creativity, teamwork, work ethic and innovation, we become soo overwhelmed with our own fears and insecurities that we gossip, sabotage, or hurt one another. This has happened to many exceptional people in our community.

We need to do better and lead by example. Our love for each other needs to be greater than our fear of failure. If we had to simplify into one word what My Black Colorado is about, it would be LOVE! Because Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no

record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. When people come in contact with our brand, that’s what I want them to experience. It‘s not an easy aspiration to live up to, but we believe it‘s worth fighting for and it‘s what we need as a community.

My Black Colorado Magazine | Education Edition | 2020

Table of Contents Premier Features

College Educators Educators

On Magazine Cover

9-11

54-67

Superintendents

Support Staff

Leading The Way

12-19

68-73

Diversity Champions

Young Scholars

& Retired Educators

20-25

Preschool - Elementary Educators

26-35

Middle School

Administrators & Counselors

Youth Features

74-81 Support Services People & Organizations

82-113

Colorado Springs Utilities Premier Sponsor

Educators

36-47

114-119

High School

Business Features

Educators

48-53

Advertising Sponsors

120-141

Rev. Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding

Director & Tenured Professor of Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Ethnic Studies University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

Pg. 8 | Features

Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

The Making Of An Educator

Connect at Stephanyforco.com

An Interview with Stephany Spaulding By Tina Adams

Meet Stephany Rose Spaulding, one of Colorado Springs’ dedicated educators and a valued treasure in the community. Her efforts have positioned her has one of the major voices in the black community by taking a stance against many of the problems that plague the education system and supporting families with consistent strives to offer better and comprehensive resources. How about we start with you telling me a little bit about how you got started in the education field? I feel like I have been in the education field pretty much all my life. I started in 2007, but I come from a family of educators. My parents were non-traditional students who worked their way through college, while raising five kids and becoming educators in the process. I then grew up and went to undergrad at Clark Atlanta University receiving my bachelor’s degree and from there I received my Master’s in English as well as a PhD in American Studies from Purdue University. After graduation, I taught at Claflin University for two years and then went on to teach at the University of Colorado in 2010, and I’ve been there ever since. What are some tips that you can give other educators on how to become all they aspire to be? Some of the best educators are people who love it first and their desire is to be in the classroom. I know that sounds ridiculous, but I have heard of and seen so many people that go into teaching because their first plan didn’t work out and that has a tremendous impact on how people show up in the classroom. So, I hope that we are putting people in the classroom who genuinely desire to be there. Second, the best educators are those who are tremendous students, they recognize that learning is forever. They always want to know how to get better, what’s new in their field that they can study, and they have a sense of wonder even as they teach. Lastly, it is extremely important to build relationships with the students and their families as it is important to remember that you are not just educating the student, but a community of people; especially in the Pre K-12 population. Even, in higher education it’s important

to genuinely recognize the humanity of the person you are able to teach, because it’s a tremendous blessing. What would you consider to be your biggest learning curve? The biggest thing I’ve learned as an educator is the way in which people learn. I have a strong background in race theory and seeing the way African American students embody certain perspectives and how certain ideologies affect the liberation of the mind was one the hardest lessons that I learned when I first started teaching. After getting past the learning curve, what would you say is your greatest joy about education? The greatest joy would be the students. I have actual students that I still know, and still make me proud. And this may make me sound old, but some of my students are now earning their PhDs and I am so amazed and proud of their achievements. They were brilliant when I was teaching them, but just to watch them grow and develop has been amazing. I’m still close with some of them, and some come back and say, “You know I really didn’t understand what you were trying to get me to see and to open my mind to at the time, but now it plays a big role in my life, and I thank you.” Those are some of the best moments as an educator. What would you say to a student that wants to succeed in the classroom? To be teachable and to keep an open mind. It starts with a willingness to learn and sometimes that’s not the easiest thing to do, especially in higher education, so many come focused on the career they are going to get afterwards. Their ability to discover and have their minds blown can be shut off because they are so focused on the outcome of career. I tell any student walking onto a college campus to open your mind to what you don’t even know you don’t know. In your opinion, what is the role of education? I think education is foundational, as both an

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educator and a pastor, I come to the scripture that says, “the first principal of the oracles of God is that you be taught.” There is nothing that we can do in life without first being taught to do it. Even when a baby is born, sometimes the doctor has to tap it on the behind to get it to breath because it’s a new environment and it doesn’t automatically register. The role of education is foundational in who we are as human beings, we are being taught from conception. There are even studies that show that babies in the womb can learn baby Mozart. Coming from an educational background and a pastoral, here in Colorado Springs, is there a role that the church can play in education? As human beings we are constantly learning and every environment that we are in reinforces that. Historically for black people in the United States, the church by in large was the first schoolhouse for a number of years. It was the church where people learned how to read, reciting scriptures from the Bible and even having classes. In modern society, we have to recognized that every space that people occupy is an educational space, when they are at home education is happening, when they are on the streets education is happening, when we are in the faith community education is happening, so we have to model what we want to reinforce. We also must prop up what is lacking, some faith communities are providing opportunities that have been taken away because of lack of funding in the education setting. They are taking cultural field trips with students and they are investing in the arts and music, because our state budgets don’t have enough for those programs; faith communities can offset that. Stephany Spaulding, your passion for education and the community shows strong and has touched the lives of many. People have lots of experience, but it is your experience coupled with the heart that you have for education, that causes tangible change to take place. We salute you. [ Stephany is also the founder of The Truth & Conciliation Comission. ] Features | Pg. 9

Connect at TayAnderson.org

The Courage To Speak Up

An Interview with Tay Anderson

By Talisa Caldwell

[ Tay Anderson tackles big city issues as the new Denver School Board At-Large Director in order to end generational inequity. If you haven’t heard of him by now, you want to. Tay Anderson is the youngest Denver School Board At-Large Director to ever be elected into office. Coming from the Denver Schools himself, this spirited activist fights with great tenacity to bring equality within his community. Under his leadership, he has plans to restructure the schools and bring real change in issues ranging from mental health to racial equity. ] How long have you been the Denver School Board At-Large Director and what led you to that point in your career? I was elected in November 2019 after running an unsuccessful campaign in 2017 for the Denver School Board. Instead of quitting, I decided to get involved and to become an educator in the district. I realized that there was a need for minority representation and wanted to make that happen. I decided to get involved with Denver School Board again and ran for a second time. How does your experience as a former student in the Denver Schools impact your decisions as the director? It gave me first-hand experience, and now, I am able to relate to our children and what they’re going through in the Denver Public Schools. People may say that you need to have political experience to hold office, but I believe that the best experience is from those who have been directly impacted. Can you briefly explain some of the major issues that you’re currently addressing as the new director? We’ve already created our 100 day plan for the district under my leadership. I have been pushing for every school to have an all-gender restroom so that students that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community have a place where they are comfortable going to the restroom in peace. Gender-conforming restrooms may not always do that for our children.

Pg. 10 | Features

We have also updated the student handbook on gun safety, because gun-violence is a big problem in our communities. We’ve lost over 10 children to gun violence this fiscal year. We implemented the Be SMART program in our schools, working with the Denver Police Department. We’ve also been increasing our funding towards our Mental Health Counselors, Restorative Justice Counselors, and we have endorsed a measure to allow students to have the right to vote in our School Board elections. I believe that students, sixteen and seventeen years old, have a right to say who’s leading their district. We pushed for that to happen, and now it’s in the hands of the legislature. How do you plan on addressing institutional racism and closing the equity gap in our public schools? I believe that the number one thing that we have to do is hire educators that look like our children, so we are constantly striving to find applicators that match the demographics of our kids. We are also figuring out how to teach our history in our schools, and right now we have an incredible group of young black women that are pushing our district to make Black History a graduation requirement. How do you plan on addressing mental health in the school system, and why do you feel that is important? It’s one of our top priorities to increase the support found in our schools. We spend tens of millions of dollars on mental health support within our district, but there’s always room to do more, and there’s always room to grow. We want to make sure that we are not being a district that is complacent when it comes to the social-emotional needs of our children. We are taking bold action and prioritizing our children because we know that teen suicide is on the rise in Colorado. We must make sure that we’re doing our part to combat this issue and at least provide resources so our students do not feel like they are alone during very discouraging times.

What are some ways that the Denver School Board could show more support to their educators? I would say that providing a livable wage is the first thing. I would also go as far to say that we need to start really valuing the profession and not just looking at it as if anybody can do it. Not just anybody can be a teacher. Teachers are a special group of individuals that I believe need to be held sacred in our communities. I also believe in empowering the voices of our educators. They should be able to take control of their classrooms, so that they’re not having to follow a playbook, but rather they are able to create their playbook. Can you talk a little bit about your involvement with the George Floyd and Elijah McClain protests? Being a black man in America, George Floyd, Trayvon Martin, Sandra Bland, and Elijah McClain all could have been me, or could have been my younger brothers and sisters. That’s the reason why I don’t take these issues lightly, and why I show up for communities. We often see elected officials show up, give these nice glorified speeches for a moment, and then never follow up with actions. I don’t want to be one of those elected officials that only shows up for our community when it benefits them. I want to show up consistently because I know it’s the right thing to do. One of the things I told folks while running for office is that I’m not going to change who I am. I’m not going to stop being “Tay the Activist” just because I now and a public figure with a title. That title just gives me more power to implement change in the system from within. I’m going to continue to stay steadfast and to support unity and equality. We’ve had enough of those who get into office by talking about the good things they are going to do, then don’t do them, and still have the nerve to come back four years later and ask for support for another term. What are some of the challenges that you’ve faced when it comes to changing the neigh-

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borhood named “Stapleton”? Could you briefly explain the history behind that name? Benjamin Stapleton was a former KKK leader, was the mayor in the County of Denver, and held other political offices in the early 1920s. He was honored with an airport that was named after him, and once the airport was decommissioned, it became a neighborhood. Ever since the neighborhood was named, activists have been fighting to change that name because they understand that upholding white supremacy does not represent, in any way shape or form, who we are as a city. I simply put out a call to action on Twitter. I’ve always been a supporter of the renamed movement and I don’t take credit for the work that was done to rename Stapleton to Central Park. It was the work of activist organizations like Black Lives Matter and others over the last five years. It was our elders like Dr.Gregory Diggs, who passed away a couple of years ago, that really pushed the rename Stapleton movement forward. What was some of the best advice that you received from somebody else when you were starting your career? I think that some of the best advice I’ve received is to be careful of who you’re dealing with. People will try to take advantage of somebody who’s new, young, and going into politics because they don’t know everything. If someone shows you who they are, believe them. What advice do you have for future generations? Stay involved, and don’t give up. If we don’t stand up now, we’re going to inherit something that we’re going to be forced to go against once again in the future. What do you hope to leave as your legacy? Whenever the sun sets on my time here, I want people to remember not who I was as an individual, but what I fought for. I want people to remember that we stood up for our communities. Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Tay Anderson

At Large Director Denver School Board

Features | Pg. 11

Dr. Michael J. Thomas Superintendent Colorado Springs School District 11

Pg. 12 | Superintendents

Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Connect at d11.org/Superintendent

A True Team Player

An Interview with Dr. Michael J. Thomas Interview By Brandon Bornes

“As an adult in this system, you need to be perceived as a leader by every young person.” --- Michael J. Thomas, Superintendent [ Dr. Thomas is the Superintendent of the District 11 schools here in Colorado Springs, where he holds it an honor and a privilege to give back to the community. He strives to not only be a quality leader, but to lead by example, reflecting the achievability of this community. Michael speaks about the heart of what he does in this interview. ] What would you say is the ‘meat and potatoes’ of why you do what you do as Superintendent and how you do your job? I’m that player-coach. Some may think that’s not a good combination I know, but I grew up in a community and went through school systems that really weren’t designed for me at all. I remember being pulled out of my urban community and moved to the suburbs, which was only like 15 minutes away, but back then, that felt like a country mile. And here I am, a little speck; I would say that my brother and I doubled the diversity at our elementary school upon our enrollment. And that’s when I realized the structural inequalities, that I lived and faced as a young black kid growing up in an all-white K-12 system, that clearly didn’t see me. Had it not been for the saving grace of my church, and me being able to go back and visit, I would have lost it. So fast-forward to where I am today, I see that my lived experiences through K-12 education, taught me a lot and if nothing else it taught me that no matter what as adult in this system you need to be perceived as a leader by every young person. I don’t care

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if you are a building and grounds keeper, cafeteria worker, a classroom teacher, board president, or superintendent; it doesn’t matter, every young person should look to you for leadership, support and guidance. And since, I never got that, I do like to roll up my sleeves. I know, my role as a superintendent, I will try to stay in my lane as much as I can, but from time to time I want to get down on the field where the game is being played. I want to see it, you know right there on the front lines, and not just read a report, so I’m in the schools at least twice a week. I’m there all day so if you need to meet with me, you’re meeting me at one of my schools, because that’s my priority. My staff needs to see that I can play the game with them. What is the role of black educators in this community? It is important that this community understands that black educators have the responsibility of their role as educators, but also to transform the system of education so that it truly does meet the needs of all students, as it should have been intended to do at inception. We thank you, here at My Black Colorado for the work that you do in the education system and for the community. We stand behind you and hope that you have great success in your endeavors to create an impactful learning environment for all students. Teamwork work will make the dream work. Written By Tina Adams

Superintendents | Pg. 13

Connect at dcsdk12.org

Leading By Example

An Interview with Dr. Thomas S. Tucker Interview By Milton Whipple

How long have you been in education? How long have you been in the role of Superintendent? I took my first professional teaching job circa August 9, 1989, in Topeka, Kansas at Jardine Middle School. I have been in education thirty-one years and Superintendent for twelve years. The end of this year will mark the beginning of my thirteenth year. Prior to becoming Superintendent, I spent two years [2006-2008] as a Director of secondary education curriculum in a large suburban school district in Ohio. I became Superintendent after that and have been serving continuously every since. How do you measure success in education? Success is measured one student and one staff member at a time. It is not just test scores; it is a multitude of things. It is both the road test and the written test. I always start with the road test. How many students and staff members feel great about what they are accomplishing? How many of them feel great about their school experience? Do they feel that someone is there who cares about them? We have an obligation to go beyond the learning that is taking place in the community. It is important to serve and be an active part of our communities. Once these connections are made, the academic part becomes relatively easy. How important is parent involvement in a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success? Student success begins and ends with parents, grandparents, and other family members. Community involvement is also another contributing factor to a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall success. I look at any success I have had, and I must acknowledge my grandparents and parents. My grandparents were sharecroppers and they taught each other how to read. In Arkansas at that time, it was still illegal for colored people to go to school. My great-grandparents were slaves. I attribute any success I have had to my grandparents and parents. My grandparents played a huge role in educating their own kids, but also had an everlasting impact on their neighbors. My grandparents were Pg. 14 | Superintendents

bold enough in Cottonplant, Arkansas to teach other sharecroppers how to sell and market their cotton. They were involved in the Civil Rights Movement before there was ever such a thing. When you look at a civil rights movement for women and people of color, it is about mobilizing and improving working, living, and educational conditions. It is about economically being able to take care of your family and not being dependent upon others for your prosperity. Therefore, it is important for parents and families to be involved. Why do you think it is important for black students to see themselves represented in education? I think it is important for all students, especially African Americans students and students of color, to see representations of themselves in education. Research shows that there is an influence on the outcomes of black kids, especially when they see role models who look like themselves. In the last study I researched, black kids who have a teacher of color (a female teacher in particular) before they finish fifth grade were forty-five times more likely to graduate high school. It is important to have representation. As our world continues to change and shift underneath our feet, all students of color and students who are part of the LGBTQ community need to have someone who is compassionate and looks like them. As an African American, I also contribute much of my early success to my African American teachers. My teachers were huge role models in my education and in planning and helping me plan for life after high school. Schools were still segregated back then, yet my teachers finished at the top of their classes and were dedicated to help me make something of myself. After strong parental support, teachers are the second most important indicators as to whether an individual is going to graduate from high school. Having a highly qualified teaching staff that is compassionate and dedicated to students plays the second biggest role in the outcome of people, especially African Americans.

WHow do you think the educational system will adapt to COVID-19? The American educational system has been around for nearly 400 years. Dating back to the first public school, the Boston Latin School in Massachusetts. If you were not white, did not own any slaves, or were not a Christian; you could not attend. We survived that. We survived the Civil Rights Movement. We survived mandatory busing in the 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. We survived H1N1 in 2008 and we are going to survive this. We live in the toughest and most resilient country in the world. We will get through this. What role do you think extracurricular activities play in education? It is huge! I talked earlier about the written test and the road test. Extracurricular and cocurricular activities are part of the road test. They help shape a student. I am proud to be a part of the Douglas County School District because we sincerely believe in educating and focusing on the whole child. We want to make sure our students receive a top-notch education, which they can use to compete with students across this planet. We also want students to understand and appreciate art, music, athletics, and other extracurricular activities. For some of our students, one of their main motivators is the arts, choir, and athletics. We do a great job here at the Douglas County School District focusing on the whole child, not just the academics. We provide our students with choices and opportunities to thrive in any type of environment. Where do you get your inspiration from? I get it from my parents, grandparents, former teachers, etc. but it is also in my soul. Particularly when you look at poor children of color or students with special needs of color coming from low-income families. They deserve a chance to learn. To learn skills at a very high level will help build a future that will help them live out their dreams. I had teachers and other people who really inspired me by telling me and showing me that I could be anything that I wanted to be.

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Dr. Thomas S. Tucker Superintendent Douglas County School District

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Superintendents | Pg. 15

Rico Munn

Superintendent Margaretta M. Boas Photograph Collection | MSS 0001 Aurora Public Schools Pikes Peak Library District | Collection

Pg. 16 | Superintendents

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Superintendent Superhero

Connect at

superintendent.aurorak12.org

An Interview with Rico Munn Interview By Kenya T. Fashaw

With an “S” on his chest, Aurora Public Schools Superintendent Rico Munn, is the representation of what it is to be a real black superhero. How long have you been in education? This is my eighth school year as Superintendent. Prior to that, I was a lawyer practicing commercial litigation here in town. I was also the head of higher education for a number of years under Governor Ritter and I was an elected member of our state board of education. How did you end up becoming a Superintendent? I’ve been involved in education policy for many years. My undergrad degree is in education. After I spent some years at the governor’s cabinet and went back to practicing law, I recognized that there were some other things that I thought were important to work on and wanted to address in the community. The position came open for Aurora Public Schools and I thought I had something to contribute to and wanted to competed for. What are some of your most valuable lessons you’ve learned on your path to become Superintendent? That’s a big question. I would say that it’s incredibly important to understand the community that you want to serve. To be able to understand what those in the community are interested in and what they expect of you. It’s not about trying to be the best school district in the world, that’s not valuable to anybody. It’s about trying to be the best that you can at surveying this particular community. What do you think our schools need to do to continue to improve? I can only speak about my school not all schools in general. What our schools need to do is to stay focused. We have a strategic plan and a strategic vision about every student shaping a successful future. What that requires is for us to get to know each of our

students in a very deep way so we can engage them in rigorous and relevant learning. Then we think about how we make sure that every one of them has a plan for their future and a set of skills to implement their plan. Then, how do they get credentials and open the doors that they need opened in their life?

and passion to connect you to rigorous and relevant education.

What roles do you think the community or the neighborhood would play in education?

That’s always the challenge educational systems have is how and when to engage parents. There are traditional structures like parent-teacher conferences and giving people access to online report cards and so forth, and those are important. I think the really important thing is to have open doors where you help parents understand the technical side of what you’re trying to do in the classroom and then how they can reinforce that at home. A lot of the work that we do is very technical. Teaching students how to read is a technical thing. Then working with parents to say here are the types of books that you can help your kids find in the library or to read, or to read to them, is how they can help reinforce that.

We recognize that we can’t do this work alone and that communities and parents are our partners in education. There are a lot of different roles to play in it. First and foremost, the accountability role is to identify for us what they need, what they expect and then holding us accountable to deliver that. Secondly, it’s about being that partner and making sure that they are connecting and understanding what are our kids trying to accomplish. What are their plans? What are their goals? Then helping to support that and provide opportunities for them. As it relates to people who look like you and, what advice would you give a young minority pursuing a leadership role such as yours?

I know that you talked about really making it a point to involve the parents in the student success. How do you involve the parents to make sure that students are successful?

What do you want your legacy to be as a Superintendent?

Hard work is always first and foremost. I think it’s also about bringing your creativity. The real opportunity for diversity is to demonstrate creativity. You can bring a different perspective to the work that’s being done in a way that can solve problems for people.

At the end of the day, Aurora and Aurora Public Schools, are a strong and diverse community. I think it’s important that Aurora Public Schools be known as a districts that will fight for their kids and kids who will fight for their own futures. I just want to support that.

What role do you think the extracurricular activities play in education?

Do you have somebody that inspires you?

Students need to be connected and to be engaged. Students engage for very different reasons. It may be that they have a deep passion for science or maybe that they have a deep passion for baseball. What’s important is that we as educators have to understand what doors are opening for us and walk through whatever door they’re opening. So if the door they’re opening is their love of video games, I don’t try to tell them to open a different door. I walk through that door to say okay, how do we use that blood

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I think it’s important have a lot of different Inspirations as times change. For me personally, first and foremost, I’m a person of faith. I get a lot of inspiration from my faith. I also have people in my family like my parents who would have inspired me over the years. I always wanted to live up to who they wanted me to be and who they expect me to be. I’m inspired by my family, my wife, and my kids by who they are and who I want to be for them.

Superintendents | Pg. 17

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summitk12.org

Disrupt, Dismantle, Collaborate An Interview with Dr. Marion Smith

By Talisa Caldwell

[ Dr. Marion Smith, the first ever black Superintendent of Summit schools, daringly dives into creating a whole new foundation for public schools in the midst of COVID-19.] What is your role as superintendent of Summit Schools and what led you to this point in your career?

understand the power of representation, being that I am the first black administrator ever in the Summit School District, as well as the first black superintendent. I try to remember the significance of that, not only for the community here, but also to others who may see me and aspire to be like me. Really, I want them to be better than me.

The superintendent is responsible for dayto-day operations and the organization of our school system. I have the privilege of supporting over 3,500 scholars and 500 staff. This year, we have been learning to navigate through COVID-19 and create a whole new education system.

I must determine how to create the infrastructure for those that come after me by disrupting and dismantling inequitable policies, practices, and procedures so that all of our scholars, families, community members, and staff can thrive.

In the past I taught Pre-K through 12th grade as an urban school educator. I like to define urban education as education within school districts that have predominantly Black and Latinx, and minority scholars. I began my career in my hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada in the 5th largest school district in the country, the Clark County School District.

What advice would you give young-minority students who are pursuing leadership roles?

In the last 20 years, I have had the opportunity to have different positions at different levels of responsibility across a variety of school districts and educational communities. I have been able to serve diverse, linguistic, cultural, socio-economic communities in Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Washington state for the last decade. I have served in Colorado since July of 2020. What are some of the most valuable lessons you learned when becoming Superintendent? I would say that it is important as educators to be mindful, and to remember that we're in the people business. We must try to understand that all perspectives are valid, yet partial. We must find a way to create opportunities for all of those different, divergent voices and perspectives to be a part of the conversation. As a superintendent, I’ve learned to create a longer table so that everyone can have a seat at it. It is critically important for me to Pg. 18 | Superintendents

I appreciate that question. I would say that it is important to understand the national trends in data. If we look at public education, about 80 to 85 percent of the teaching force in public education is white and female. If we look at the demographics across the nation, there's only a small percentage of superintendents of color. I would advise young minority scholars to find a network of individuals that you can learn from, that could be your mentors, that can be your coaches, and that can be your confidants. Watch them, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find opportunities to be physically around them as they're engaging in your field of interest and reach outside your comfort zone. You don’t even need to have those individuals in your immediate community because we're now interconnected by technology. I encourage scholars to reach out to people in their field of interest via social media, because there are many people who may respond to your messages. How do you measure success in education? That's a loaded question there. Education is often measured by quantitative data, but I think it is important to create a system that is equitable for everyone. I define equity as everyone in the system getting what they need in order to thrive, so I believe that we

have to define success for ourselves. How important do you think family involvement is when it comes to student success? I believe that our family members are our first teachers. We only have our scholars in school for a finite amount of time, and they may be involved in some after-school activities, but they always go back home. It’s critically important that we support our scholars as a community, and develop authentic family communication and connection. What advice do you have for future generations? First I’d like to say that it's going to be hard. However, just because it's hard and challenging doesn't mean that we should stop. Your voice is critically important in this work. What you do and who you are matters. Your perspective is critical and essential to the conversations. You may be the only person of color in a space, or the only person who's boys voicing a perspective. It is important to stand firm in what you believe, and know that by doing that, you are pushing the conversation forward. What you want may not happen in the timeline that you envisioned, but your mere presence may be a serious threat to the status quo. Stand firm in who you are, knowing that the challenges will be there, but that your voice is needed. Your perspective is needed and it's all about challenging the process. Don’t just accept things because it is the way they've always done it.

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Dr. Marion Smith Superintendent Summit School District

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Superintendents | Pg. 19

Mary Thurman

Former Deputy Superintendent Colorado Springs School District 11 Prior to my retirement in June 2018, I spent 47 years in education. My 47 years included fourteen years of classroom teaching (chemistry, physics, physical science, algebra, geometry and general mathematics), several years as a middle school assistant principal and as a middle school principal, and the last twenty plus years at the central office level as an Executive Director and as Deputy Superintendent (second-in-command). I have also served as an adjunct professor for the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.

Dr. Ronald Wynn

Former Superintendent & Administrator Colorado Springs School District 11 As a former School District Superintendent, I chose this area of Administration so that I would be able to have a larger impact on the needs of the students, their families and the communities. I wanted to ensure that students received a quality education holistically and were afforded the opportunities and instruction which they needed to be prepared in order to achieve success in society and the workforce. As a Servant Leader, it was imperative for me to leave a legacy for others to follow.

One of the highlights of my speaking engagements occurred when I spoke to youth and church members about possibilities and used my favorite bible verse as my theme: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13. Pg. 20 | Retired | Education Inf luencers

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Dr. Claudette Sweet

Deborah Wynn

Reading Specialist Denver Public Schools

Former Principal & Administrator in Colorado Springs

Dr. Sweet was a Community and Reading Specialist with Denver Public Schools for over 25 years. A Reporter and Photojournalist for The Denver Weekly News, the oldest and only African American oriented newspaper in Colorado. Dr. Sweet has sung in a multitude of capacities, from school events, community vigils ,rallies, to Colorado Symphony performances and others throughout our great country. She is noted to have been called upon to sing for the Columbine Community Vigil, by the City and County of Denver and was heard all around the world. Through her work, she has gained.the respect of several noteworthy persons of history. she has introduced programs to the community still active today, such as the NCNW Harambee Brunch( held annually every December); Living Portraits of African-American Women in observance of International.

I was the first African American Female Administrator in Harrison School District 2

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I always had a passion for the youth and their educational process and was committed to being an advocate for the teaching and learning of children. My work was embedded in the desire I had for students to learn and acquire the necessary knowledge needed to succeed educationally. I was dedicated to helping to ensure that all students received a quality and equitable education by having access, resources and exposure to numerous learning opportunities. As an Administrator, I was able to be involved and make the necessary changes and interventions for children of color which assisted in ensuring their educational progress.

Retired | Education Inf luencers | Pg. 21

Connect at ppcc.edu

A Strategic Plan For Diversity An Interview with Kieth Barnes By Talisa Caldwell

I’ve been in higher education for almost 30 years, starting in enrollment management in Financial Aid and Advising. In 2007, I got into diversity work exclusively. As the Executive Director for Diversity Equity and Inclusion, I work with the college and set the strategic agenda for diversity equity and inclusion. Diversity means valuing differences, and in terms of equity, we have historically had people who have been undeserved or marginalized than ever before, so I work with the campus stakeholders to figure out how we can close those equity gaps. For example, when it comes to retention, success, and completion rates, our AfricanAmerican, Hispanic, and Latinx students tend to be at a lower level compared to the total student population. My job is to work with campus stakeholders to find innovative ways to try to close those gaps. I address their teaching practices and help them to embrace culturally responsive pedagogy, (i.e. teaching) and provide support services to underrepresented populations of lowincome, first generation students--and things of that nature. I also work to provide inclusion by looking at our campus climate and making sure that we’re promoting a safe environment where everybody has a sense of belonging. That means addressing issues of things like race, gender, and homophobia. When students are inside the classroom, workspace, or generally on campus, they don’t need to feel like they can’t embrace who they are. We do a critical analysis of what’s happening on our campus, and what we need to do to change it. We attempt to change deep rooted perceptions through training, measuring our campus climate, doing surveys, and having conversations with people. Why do you think what you do is important? We live in an increasingly more diverse and global world, so I believe people have to confront that reality. We are not immune to Pg. 22 | Diversity Directors & Staff

some of the challenges that you see in the media today, like Black Lives Matter and LBGTQ+ rights, so we need to prepare our students for that world that they’re going to go into when they go into the workforce, or transfer to a four-year institution. It’s our responsibility to start tackling those issues, and to give students a platform on campus where we can have these deep, courageous conversations about those issues that impact our society.

You’re never too old to learn your profession, and if you get to the point where you think you know everything, you probably need to ask yourself if it really in your best interest to continue to do it. There’s always more to learn, especially in the world of Diversity Equity. Things are changing so constantly that it requires you to continuously train and educate yourself.

What do you love most about what you do?

I would say to not allow other people to define what success means for you. For example, if I ask you, “Who is more successful, me or Barack Obama?” The average person is going to say Barack Obama. He’s the president, he’s married to Michelle, he’s a millionaire, a best selling author, and more! Still, I can challenge that opinion because I’ve never wanted to be president of the United States of America, and as a matter of fact, I didn’t want to be president anything!

The community relations, building relationships, and meeting people from different backgrounds. My approach is that I can learn as much from other people as I hope they will learn from me. When you build those relationships, you foster growth and understanding--which will lead to a better campus and better community. That’s what truly makes me get up everyday and do this job. What was the best advice you received about your impact on education, and diversity? That’s a good question. When I first started in my career, I didn’t go into it thinking that Higher Education would be my career, and I thought of it as a job. I was fresh out of college, 22 years old and I had myself a little bachelor pad. Basically, I was doing something special, and it was just a job to make money. As I progressed, people told me, “Hey Keith, you have to take this seriously if you want to grow in it. You have to train and learn the politics so that you can move up that ladder of success.” I didn’t have somebody to tell me initially, but I learned very quickly to treat this as a career, and not just as a job. I learned to understand the trade, and over time, I started to join professional organizations. I was just elected as the President of the Regional Association of Diversity Officers, and still, I continued to go to training and presentations because I am a student of my craft.

What advice do you have for any younger generations?

Why should his success be the measurement for my success? Define what success is for you, and then pursue that and be proud of your achievements! Don’t always compare yourself to what other people are doing. I also tell the younger generation to know your worth. If you’re if you’re qualified and you’re ready, then you’re worthy. Don’t let other people tell you that you’re not because that belief will try to prevent you from achieving your dreams. I always bring up Anita Baker and J.K. Rowling. Anita got told that she would never make it because she didn’t have “star quality.” Just imagine if she would’ve listened to that person! J.K. Rowling’s book, Harry Potter, was rejected 12 times by publishers before she got it! Know your vision for life, and your passion for what you do. Get better with practice and believe you’re not going to fail, even if sometimes you make some mistakes. Know your calling, and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise.

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Keith Barnes

Executive Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pikes Peak Community College

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Diversity Directors & Staff| Pg. 23

Alexis Knox Miller

Aaron J. Griffen, Ph.D.

Director of Equity and Inclusion Colorado Springs School District 11

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion DSST Public Schools in Denver

I am an educator first and foremost. I have been on my journey in education since 2004. When I began this journey, I knew that I wanted to fundamentally change the odds for any student that I encountered. I also knew that I wanted to work with students and communities that were under-served and under-resourced. Whether I was doing this work as a teacher, an instructional coach, a dean, or as an assistant principal, I always approached my work with a social-justice and equity lens.

I am a P-12 practitioner scholar with 21 years experience in public and charter schools as a middle school English teacher and assistant principal in Houston, Texas and as a high school principal in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Throughout my career, I have worked exclusively and purposefully in Urban defined schools and districts, serving a culturally, linguistically, economically, educationally, emotionally and diverse population of learners. As an author, speaker, guest lecturer, panelist, and educational consultant I sustain an active research interest and a publishing agenda in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

I am the Director of Equity and Inclusion in Colorado Springs School District 11. This is a new position and we are the first district in this region to have an equity policy. I work to ensure that students have equitable outcomes and access. I work to remove barriers. My work is centered around ensuring that nothing gets in the way of students achieving. I am excited to do this work because all of our students deserve to see themselves in the curriculum, in the teachers who teach them, and in the policies we create. Pg. 24 | Diversity Directors & Staff

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Dr. Tameka Brigham

Janice “JJ” Frazier

Executive Director, Student Success Aurora Public Schools

Human Resources Diversity Specialist Colorado Springs School District 11

I am a thoughtful leader, a courageous advocate, and a skilled educator and coach. With a clear understanding of the nuances found in diverse settings, I am an action-oriented thinker that promotes the skills and leadership abilities of others towards sustainable outcomes. A passionate learner, exploring the history, and reflecting on the “shoulders on which I stand” is an integral component of my success and approach to collaboration and mobilization. Justice and liberation ideologies motivate me to build a lasting legacy in the fight for education equity. I held the position Chief of Staff, Denver Public Schools and Chief, Family Community Engagement for the district. In my current role, Executive Director of Student Success for Aurora Public Schools, I am proud to lead the Mental Health and Counseling, College and Career Success, Behavioral Health Systems, Family Engagement, and Young Parent Support teams.

Support School District 11 in the areas of equity, diversity and inclusion and student teacher recruitment and placement. Monitors D11 staff diversity data; Interacts and communicates effectively with a diverse workforce, district staff, minority organizations and community; coordinates and works with colleges and universities nationwide, building principals, cooperating teachers, school counselors and specialized staff to place student teachers and practicum interns in D11 schools. I believe that ALL students deserve an equitable education and ALL people/staff deserve to be treated equitably in D11.

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Diversity Directors & Staff| Pg. 25

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Holli Colburn Reading Specialist Smith Elementary Denver, CO

What roles have you held in education and how many years have you been an educator? I have been a teacher in Denver public schools for 22 years. I love what I do. I’ve held the role of fifth grade teacher probably the longest, maybe nineteen of my years have been all fifth grade. Now, for the last six years, I’ve done fifth grade and fourth grade. It has been a great opportunity for me to loop with my students because I watch them develop for a year in fourth grade in reading and writing and then they come back as my fifth graders. What an honor and a privilege in having an opportunity to see kids grow by having them two years. I see kids come to me immature academically but leave me confident, sound, and just ready to conquer the world! The whole child develops academically and socially. I really get to see kids leave well-rounded when I have had them for two years. Why did you decide to become an educator? You know, I became an educator because in fourth grade I was blessed to have a phenomenal educator named Ms. Andrea Deann Holmes. Andrea means so much to me. I spoke to her yesterday! We talk all the time. She retired after thrity-two years in the district. She inspired me; as a fourth grader, I only had one African-American teacher. Ms. Holmes was not only a phenomenal educator, but she taught me to have confidence in myself. It was the first time in my life I saw a black woman other than my mother or my grandmother that stood for excellence, and she reminded me that “hey, you could be anything you want to be.” She was a perfectionist; she wanted your handwriting to always be your best. She wanted you to articulate your thoughts clearly, and she said there is power in clear communication. She taught us how to love ourselves and most importantly Ms. Holmes taught us that if you can’t say anything nice, say nothing. She just inspired me. Interview By Keena Day

Pg. 26 | Preschool & Elementar y Educators

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Katherine Brown

Preschool Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

How long have you been doing it for? I have been teaching for about 24 years. Why do you feel that what you do as an educator is important? I feel that my career as a teacher is essential because we have the opportunity to help the young minds of the future by providing necessary tools they need to be successful in life. What is the best advice you ever received about your impact on education? The best advice I ever received is that it is important to know that the parents or guardians are the child’s first teacher. My job is to meet them where they are and expand their child’s growth and development skills. Part of my job is to do home visits prior to school where we have the parents do a questionnaire to really get to know the child. Building those relationships are very important. What advice do you have for future generations? For this, I’d like to quote Dr. Seuss: “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” I think our children need to know this quote because they may be trying to be like the people that they see on TV, and I’d like them to know that it’s okay just to be their own, unique selves. Interview By Talisa Caldwell

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Preschool & Elementar y Educators | Pg. 27

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Jessica Spizzandre 4th Grade Teacher Aurora, CO

Why do you feel that what you do is important? Being an educator-- especially to black and brown students-- is important to me because I don’t see enough black or non-black educators embracing and celebrating the cultures and richness of our students. Having the ability to illuminate our history and our capabilities is very critical. Being an educator allows me to add life and color to the central curriculum that’s often placed in front of our kids. I started my teaching in Philadelphia working with minority students, and that’s really what shaped my foundation as an educator. It was a challenge at first, and I had some very difficult moments with my students. I came to realize that I should treat them like the very bright beings they were, instead of treating them based off of the judgments that other people had made about them. Judgments like “They’re bad,” or you know, “They’ll catch an attitude with you.” I saw that if I just treated them with high expectations, and respected them, then all would be well. As an educator, I feel it is important to realize this when it comes to your students. If you are expecting others to treat you with respect then you must treat them with respect. What do you love most about what you do? I love incorporating aspects of abolitionist teaching. Throughout the entire school year, I’m incorporating Black history, Latinx history, and Indigenous history. We learn how to write protest signs, we write letters to the councilman and councilwoman, and we focus on justice. In my classroom, I was impressed to hear fourth graders--nine and ten year olds--talk about issues like gun violence, immigration laws, pollution control, and childcare. These kids will focus on an issue and engage in it, creatively thinking about ways to solve it. Interview By Talisa Caldwell Pg. 28 | Preschool & Elementar y Educators

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Corrie Whitefield

Kindergarten | Instructional Coach Aurora, CO How long have you been in education? I’ve been in education for 20 years. Why do you think education is important?

It’s important because we’re shaping what’s going to become the future. We need to do as best as we can to provide all students with everything necessary for their development. What do you love most about your role in education? I teach our most impressionable learners in early childhood. I got into teaching as a way to fight against educational injustices. I wanted to ensure that equitable practices were instilled in an effort to chip away at the opportunity gap. Also I love that I can just be free and have fun with my kids. It’s a mutual exchange of teaching and learning together. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? The best advice I’ve received is to just be yourself. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? Don’t be afraid to question adults and don’t be afraid to push back. I actually teach my daughter that now and she’s in high school. Adults don’t always have all the right answers. I always encourage young people, at any age, to push back and ask questions. I ask my five-year-olds in my classroom to ask me a question and if I don’t know it’s okay, I can be wrong. Just ask me and push back. Interview By Kenya Fashaw

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Preschool & Elementar y Educators | Pg. 29

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Derien Latimer

Principle James Madison Middle School Colorado Springs, CO I come from a family of educations. My grandma was an elementary school teacher for 40 years. my mom taught for over 20 years, and when my father retired from the military, he went into education and was a high school athletic director. I grew up having a high regard for teachers and educators, And I knew early one I wanted to be an educator. After college I began exploring the education field, and I was hooked. I was confident in my abilities and believed I could make a difference in the education system. I went back to school for masters in administration, and not soon after I became assistant principal for 12 years. That 12 year span I worked at 5 middle schools. Most recently I accepted a job at James Madison middle school as a principal. When I look back at the people who had the biggest influences on my life, it was educators, it was teachers. In 5th grade my teachers Sam chambersâ&#x20AC;Ś.made education engaging for me. I wasn't the best student but he just engaged me beyond the content, he was interested in who I was, and affirmed gifts and talents. Him and others teachers like him inspired me to achieve. Those moments made me feel better than scoring a touchdown in college. Having the admiration of the teacher was impactful for me. That's why I went into education. I wanted to make another student feel the same way that those special teachers made me feel. Being an educator is fulfilling work, its hard work, it's a calling. What greater things can you do that to boost a young person on their journey to adulthood. We get to pour into these kids. We get to shape lives. Written By Brandon Bornes

Pg. 30 | Preschool & Elementar y Educators

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Zelda Alao

Brittany Douglas

I teach first grade in an elementary school, in Cherry Creek Schools. As part of my job description I teach all content areas. First grade is definitely my niche, I have tried Kindergarten and also second grade, and this is certainly were I find my passion. I enjoy teaching students who are eager to learn and I like to help students to discover their passion and love for learning. I became an educator because I believe that educating ourselves is one of the best ways we can free ourselves and live life to the fullest. I decided to work with younger students because I know that the younger you get them the easier it is to develop that love. I am an educator because I care about children and their future.

As a Kindergarten teacher, I am often a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s introduction to public school. I do my best to ignite a love of learning in my students and help them to see all the possibilities that being a life long learner has to offer. I greatly enjoy making strong connections with families and building relationships with the community. I do this work because it is my passion. Ever since I was younger, I have always wanted to teach. This work is the bedrock of our nation and many owe their successes to dedicated teachers who saw a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential and pushed them toward greatness. I aim to be the educator who opens doors of opportunity for students by sharing my knowledge and showing them love and compassion.

First Grade Teacher Cherry Creek Schools Centennial, CO

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Kindergarten Teacher Trailblazer Elementary Colorado Springs, CO

Preschool & Elementar y Educators | Pg. 31

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Sharon Thomas

Mental Health School Counselor Colorado Springs School District 11 I provide mental health for students in Pre-K to 5th grade in a Title One Elementary School. Why do I do this? I enjoy working with students, families, staff and community to improve the graduation rate of students who are under represented.

Melissa Lindsey

Dominique Conner 4th Grade Teacher Abrams Elementary School Colorado Springs, CO

I have taught most elementary grades. I am also the school STEM coach and Student Council sponsor. I love to help children learn and reach their full potential. I had a handful of teachers who made a big impact on me so I wanted to do the same for other students. I have now been teaching for over a decade and hope that I have helped students the way those teachers helped me.

Mary R. Bowens Principal Timberline Elementary School Centennial, CO

One thing that has helped me grow is the realization that you never stop learning and the opportunities I have had to challenge myself as an educator. When I moved to Colorado I had the opportunity to become a student council sponsor and at my most recent school I am also a STEM coach. As a STEM coach I was really pushed outside of my comfort zone but that in addition to my math instruction earned me a 2020 CCTM Outstanding Teacher award from the Colorado Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Mary is a native Coloradoan and a HBCU graduate. She has been an educator since 1996. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience includes teaching students preK-5th grade, providing staff development for two major publishing companies, an instructional coach, and an assistant principal. She is currently the principal at Timberline Elementary School in Centennial, CO.

Pg. 32 | Preschool & Elementar y Educators

1st Grade Teacher Highline Academy Charter Schools Denver, CO I am the Director of Communications at Highline Academy Charter Schools. I oversee our marketing, communications, social media, website, community relations, fundraising, strategic planning, event planning and our alumni scholarship. I have 17 years of experience and decided to leave corporate in order to make a positive impact for kids.

Anthony C. Williams 5th Grade Teacher Wildflower Elementary School Colorado Springs, CO

I teach because I love giving back to the community and building young minds. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also a mentor and basketball coach

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Lolita Wilson

Tianna Staples Physical Education Widefield School District Colorado Springs, CO

Music Educator Lansing Elementary School Aurora, CO

One reason I became a teacher is because I was tired of watching so many minority students fall through the cracks, often times because they don’t feel comfortable in today’s society. They feel as though they don’t belong, and that it’s all for one race/ ethnic group. Too many have I seen and heard from, concerning their capabilities, and whether or not, they had/have what it takes to make it through school, based on the society that we live in. They don’t see very many minority educators during their school life, and when they do, their eyes just light up! It touches my heart, and you see a glimmer of hope, and you do your very best to see them successful through school and beyond! I love seeing the growth throughout each school year, in ALL of the students I come in contact with, because I think it helps them see that they can do and become anything they set their mind on doing or becoming.

I have always loved working with children. As long as I can remember I thought I could save the world by helping as many children as possible see educational success. School was not always easy for me, and I can remember in elementary school always wishing I was as smart as my classmates. I cannot remember one teacher who took the time to encourage me and to help me see that I was indeed as smart if not smarter. Lucky for me I had a mother who encouraged me, and told me that with hard work and perseverance, I could accomplish anything. I think that is why I especially love working with the alternative population. A lot of those students come from difficult home lives, and/or have hard times finding teachers who are willing to look for the cause of the negative behavior. By the time I get them at the high school level they are defeated and are just there because parents do not want to see them drop out. I feel as those kids have so much to offer. They just need that one person to encourage them to be the best they can be! I make that my mission to be the one teacher who encourages them and helps motivate them to want to be successful.

Currently, I am a music educator teaching music in the Aurora Public Schools. I believe it is my responsibility to teach a comprehensive music curriculum that is well planned and assessment-driven. My responsibility is to deliver a sequence of learning that includes music theory, music history, and listening skills development while developing a passion for music with my students. I want our children to be creative and enjoy performing music with their community.

Teacher Thomas Edison Elementary Colorado Springs, CO

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Marquia Young Special Education Teacher Aurora, CO

I support students receiving support services via an Individual Education Plan (IEP) inside and outside the general education classroom. My position requires me to know each student as an individual allowing me to help general education teachers provide instructional supports and accommodations that meet the academic needs of all students.

Koli Jamerson 1st Grade Teacher Altura Elementary Aurora, CO

I became a teacher because I have a deep passion for social justice, and I fulfill that passion through the education of our youngest most precious elementary learners. As teachers we have a duty to educate kids about not only literacy and mathematics, but also empathy, compassion, critical thinking in hopes that we can end systemic racism. Our community needs teachers that look like people they serve, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so important to have representation for our black youth to see.

Taunashea Williams Preschool Para Educator Lyn Knoll Elementary Aurora, CO

I am very passionate about our youth. They are at their prime age where they are learning and exploring as well as being very impressionable. I am the founder and head coach of my non profit called Divine Dynasty Dance. Here I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with our youth and help them build character, teach life skills, encourage continued educated, expose them to new experiences, and promoting healthy choices both physically and mentally all while being apart of the various programs we offer. Outside of running my business, I am a Preschool Para Educator for a public school district. Here I have the opportunity to make positive connections with children as young as three years old while they explore life and learn the fundamentals of numbers, letters, sounds, friendships, colors, people, how things work, etc... I feel like my purpose on this earth is to teach children not just academically, but socially and emotionally. I love giving back and being able to help children and their families however I can.

Pg. 34 | Preschool & Elementar y Educators

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Kenny B. Lindsey

Melissa Lindsey

Physical Education Teacher Colorado Springs School District 11

Counselor Colorado Springs School District 11

I teach small children (grades K-5) the importance of health and wellness. I do this because I strongly believe that learning to be healthy physically and emotionally are vital components to a quality education.

I have worked for 12 years as a school counselor. The first 3 years, I worked in Arizona as a counselor on the Navajo Reservation,

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I teach social-emotional education for elementary students in grades K-5. I love helping students improve their mental health and peer relationships.

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Nycole Bradshaw

Middle School Math Teacher Hill Campus of Arts and Sciences Colorado Springs, CO Why do you think education is important? Education is always an important factor in people’s lives. You can teach and learn from anywhere outside of the school houses. A school building is just a brick-and-mortar. It’s all about what you pour into your students. Even though I just teach 6th grade math, that’s not all that I pour into students every single day. Especially times like now, it’s important to be an educator with a voice as well as a listening ear. Kids are going through a time where they are experiencing a pandemic and blatant racism at the forefront. They have two pandemics going on right now. I am there for my students in any capacity, they need. A lot of times kids just need to vent to someone to hear what they’re trying to say, without a response. Kids just want to be heard. I just want to be that person that is always a listening ear for students. I let them know that I am an educator, who is also a learner myself. I’m a lifelong learner. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? I received a lot of advice. Mainly, the consistent thing that I’ve heard is to observe but don’t be afraid to step in when necessary. You can only sit back and watch for so long before people go in a direction that you don’t believe in. Always be a listening ear as well. As I stated before you don’t know it all and be willing to be teachable. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? Take your education seriously. A lot of times we hear that negative behaviors are sparks because students are bored, they don’t understand, or their not being challenged enough. So take your education seriously. If you find yourself being bored, voice yourself and say that you’re board. Bring ideas to the table. Interview By Keena Day

Pg. 36 | Middle School Educators

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Richelle Gittens 4th/5th Grade Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

What role do you play in education, how long have you been in education? I’m a fourth-grade teacher. I think I model daily for black and brown students’ higher expectations for learning. I model women in science as well because I do a lot of outdoor science activity and outdoor learning experiences. I just finished my 21st year in education. Why do you think education is important? It helps to level the playing field. I think to change the system that we currently have now, you must know the system. You must be a critical thinker. Having the presence of black and brown people is that we bring a different way of looking at things. What do you love most about your role in education? I’m impacting the lives of small people and allowing them to see different things and have different experiences. I do a whole unit on social justice; then to had students come down in protest with me for the black lives matter. It was a proud moment. It’s nice to see the application transfer. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? To always be genuine. Also, kids of color tend to lack certain experiences, especially in the outdoors. Only because of lack of exposure to those types of activities. It’s really important to encourage them to explore the outdoors. My club is the YES Club. The Young Environmental Stewards Club. It’s an outdoor environmental science club. I’m still the only black teacher teaching in the environmental science arena. I like being an example for kids and providing those experiences; especially for lowerincome and children of color. Interview By Angelique Scott

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Jimmy Day

Director of Band and Orchestra East Middle School Aurora, CO What are few of your beliefs about education, and how does it manifest in your day to day as an educator? Education is a civil right. That is my main belief. I think that students deserve the chance to learn something. They need to learn something that is going to allow them to be better in life, to help them become successful in life in whatever that is. That is what I try to manifest in my teaching. You know, I tell my students all of the time that band is a way of life. I say that everything you are doing in this band room is going to make you become a better person. In band, students have to work well with others, they have to be disciplined, they have to show leadership skills and be reflective. All of that will and can contribute to their present and future successes. What tips would you give to a first year teacher in your content? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t assume that students automatically understand your expectations. As a first year teacher, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about setting standards, setting expectations and reinforcing them DAILY. That is the first thing that needs to be addressed before any instrument gets touched. Explain to them the importance of your rules, (have your rules on your wall in big letters) and procedures. Define and discuss what procedures are so it can be clearly understood. You must teach your students how to act in your room, even if it means having them practice how to enter,exit and other things that will contribute success in your classroom. That will take you a long way. Interview By Keena Day

Pg. 38 | Middle School Educators

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Kadari Taylor-Watson 8th Grade Science Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

Growing up, my father turned every occasion no matter how big or small into a history lesson. When we would travel in the car for long road trips, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d quiz us in almost every state, testing our knowledge about Black American historical events. As a young girl, I was annoyed by it, but as I got older and realized that knowing my history was a source of empowerment, I was grateful that he valued education both in and outside of the classroom. Now as a PhD candidate and a K-12 educator, I work hard to help my students see their subjects of studies in their everyday lives so that they also can feel empowered by knowing. I do what I do because I want to help provide tools of empowerment for the next generation just like my father did for me. Using a project based curriculum complementing the situated knowledge of my students, I strive to provide them a safe space for inspiration, innovation, and transformation. and emotional statements made by Black Diasporic women through the use of African print., and material cultural studies and is also the focus of my dissertation where I examine the social, Currently, gender, I work for Third Future School at Coperni 2 Charter School in Colorado Springs. However, last year I worked as a Visiting Lecturer at Colorado College within the Feminist Gender & Sexuality Studies Department. My expertise is in race & political.

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Bryant Perryman

Special Education | Math Teacher Panorama Middle School Colorado Springs, CO Math became my favorite subject, it felt like my calling. There is always a right or wrong answer, And I feel that it is important to learn lessons that teach you financial literacy. To often people mess up on finances and don’t know how to come back from it. Which causes a lot of trauma which leads to depression. Why do you think education is important? Education is the pathway to the future, you know, especially, with what we’re going through right now with the whole pandemic. Without an education, people wont know about the things going on around them. People should educate themselves on stuff like vaccines, and the Corona Virus. Even, when it comes to our democracy. Educate yourself on who and what you’re voting for, Instead of going out and just voting for anything. I mean, not only that but on Financial stuff in terms of money and you know, I just think if you’re not educated properly ,your life could be a disaster. So I think education is the key to success. It’s the key to our future. With all of this new technology, things change every day, and so there is always something new to learn. What do you love most about your role in education? What I love most about it is just building relationships. Building Positive relationships and meeting other people that you can build relationships with, those that you know you can achieve a lot of things that nobody thought they were capable of. What is the best advice that you received about impacting the education sector? The best advice that I received is about improving, and how You have to stay with people. When things are looking bad at first it’s not always going to be that way. Don’t give up on somebody because you never know when they’re turning point maybe. Written by: Camiio Patton

Pg. 40 | Middle School Educators

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Erin Douglas

7th Grade English Teacher Strive Prep Montbello Denver, CO Why do you think education is important? It goes back to a quote that I saw a long time ago in grade school that “knowledge is power.” I take it to heart when my ancestors weren’t allowed to read and write. They kept us ignorant and it made me wonder, why didn’t they allow us to read and write? Because they knew that there was power in knowing what’s going on around you and educating yourself. So that’s why I think education is extremely powerful. What do you love most about your role in education? The kids! I have learned to hide my surprise when something really crazy comes out of their mouths and I’m like...okay! But I do, I love the kids. I am so fascinated with how their minds work. I love to watch the, “aha” moment when they get it. I love it when they’re like, thank you Mrs. Douglas for being there for me. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for helping me. Even when we get on your nerves, you are still there for us. So it’s the kids! What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? The best advice that I have received, and I won’t say that this is advice, I would say that it’s more of a culmination of learning experiences. You will never be perfect. There’s no such thing as a perfect teacher. But you have to do the best that you can. If you love what you are doing, then everything else will come together. If the kids see that you’re passionate about the work, then their going to take their education more seriously, whether they like it or not. They kids may say, I hate to read but Mrs. Douglas loves it, or I hate my math, but Mr. Fashaw loves it. I’m going to try to do my best for them. If you bring your love and passion towards it, the kids will see that and respond to it. Interview By Kenya Fashaw

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LaDonna Welch Math & Technology Teacher Skyview Middle School Colorado Springs, CO

At an early age I realized that teaching was my gift. I was a part of the teachers of tomorrow starting in middle school. I love to help others and I also love to share what I know. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like seeing that spark in a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes or seeing a student as they have an aha moment. The most important reason is that students are fun and brighten my day.

Mrs Welch Creates

I am a proud mother of 2 feisty princesses and wife of a member of the US Air Force. I first started making bows after my first born. I have a passion for creating things and decided to try my hand at sewing. My passion, creativity, and will to create affordable items gave way to MRS. WELCH CREATES. Mrs. Welch Creates offers affordable unique, boutique style clothing. I also offer custom made items, monogramming, party supplies, and custom embroidery.

Pg. 42 | Middle School Educators

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Felicia Westland

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8th Grade Math Teacher Fountain Dort Carson Middle School Why do you think education is important? Teaching allows you to guide and motivate, inspire all children, especially being a role model of color. You do not see many of us in the classroom. I believe that we represent around 2 % in administration. There are less of us in the administration as Principles. I am currently taking the Principle Licensure program at UCCS. We need more of a diverse pool to help our children move into the future and that starts with more people working in the education field. We may need to change how we review what we are doing to help our kids into the next phase of their lives. What do you love most about your role in education? I love the relationship building. I have built great relationships with kids. I still am in touch with kids from my first group of kids in the 6th grade. They are now older, but I felt I have provided them enough tools to prepare them to become future leaders. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? Over the years I have gleaned from leaders, trust and relationships are important. Great teacher leaders and other have stated that flexibility and adapting what comes across you are your desk. I have learned that we must treat our kids like they are the most important person and then they will do the best for you. Take a day or two to really get to know them and their interests. Respect them and you will garner that respect from them. It is those connections and conversations that you will never forget. Love what you do. And when you wake up one day and that is no longer what you want to do then its time for you to go. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? Explore opportunities. Set goals and talk to people about paths. Develop educational paths. Position yourself at a level to attain what you are looking for and do not be afraid to make a charge for it. Find your passion and just follow it. Interview By Shirley Martinez Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Middle School Educators | Pg. 43

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Harriet Jarmon Ph.D. Director of Choral Music Skyview Middle School Colorado Springs, CO

I have been a music educator for over 30 years. I have also functioned as Director for Professional Development for the Pikes Peak Center for Education and Learning. My accomplishments include National Children’s & Youth Choir Distinguished Participant Colorado Representative at Carnegie Music Festivals award; and AKA Community Award recipient. My research involves student mindset in multicultural music & transfer of learning skills in the choral settings. I am a published author of two books as well as co-author of Colorado Standards for Music. I hold degrees in Music Education, Curriculum & Technology Integration, as well as a PhD in Secondary & Adult Education. I love providing new, exciting and amazing opportunities for my students every chance I can.

Gene Fashaw Math Teacher & Coach Strive Prep Montbello Denver, CO

Why do you think education is important? Like Malcolm X said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” Especially in the black community, education is going to be absolutely necessary in order to uplift and enlighten our people to take our communities to another level.

Patience Agana Math & Business Teacher Colorado School District 11 Colorado Springs, CO

I teach mathematics because I believe that math is all around us in our everyday activities. I am passionate about giving back to underserved communities so they can acquire the knowledge they need to help them bridge social,economical and emotional barriers and succeed, initiate and continue the virtuous cycle of a better community.

What do you love most about your role in education? I love that I get to impact literally hundreds of kids every day and be a positive role model breaking the school-to-prison pipeline. I want to show people that there are other things in life than what’s perpetuated on TV and in music and the stereotypes that are projected onto us. Interview at Kenya Fashaw

Pg. 44 | Middle School Educators

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Dawn Antoinette Thomas Assistant Principal Fox Meadow Middle School Colorado Springs, CO

As assistant principal I have the pleasure of teaching and learning alongside young people and adults by serving in a role that allows me to lead, advocate, mentor and empower. Some of the most impactful individuals in my life are/were educators, to include those that may not have the title of teacher or administrator, but instinctively care, and share knowledge that evokes learning. Life-long learning can lead to so many possibilities, access, experiences and a sense of joy even through challenges. All of our students deserve this and more; our future literally depends on it. improvement initiatives.

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Durtana Walker

Middle School Assistant Principal Fountain, CO Experienced and accomplished educational leader with over ten years of school-based experience working within collaborative settings to leverage strategic planning designed to determine and extend direction, leadership, and vision when implementing change efforts resulting in increased student achievement and growth, differentiated post-secondary exploration, community partnerships, and needs-based school improvement initiatives.

Middle School Educators | Pg. 45

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Akiya Minniefield 8th Grade Science Teacher Strive Prep Montbello Campus Denver, CO

Teaching not only allows me the chance to help our youth grow academically, but to also build their self confidence. I tell my story and show pictures of where I grew up to my students at the beginning of the year so that they know my life has not always been what they see in front of them. I want them to understand that they can achieve anything they put their minds too because where you are now does not determine where you are going. I strive to be the role model that I didn’t have as a student.

Kym Anderson

5th Grade Math & literacy Teacher Highline Academy Charter Schools Denver, CO My favorite quote is Maya Angelou’s, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

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Evelyn Baker Music Teacher

Evelyn Baker is a Middle School Educator who loves the art of music. As a music teacher, she strives to create an environment where she can authentically connect with students and facilitate opportunities for them to freely explore the varying elements of music. She firmly believes that music is a pathway to self-discovery and creative selfexpression. She is committed to leveraging her passion for music to heal the world in helping others.

Linda Rogers

Business Education Teacher Horizon Middle School Colorado Springs, CO

Janie W. Fannings Special Educations Teacher Fox Meadow Middle School Colorado Springs, CO

Presently, I am a Moderate Needs Special Education Teacher at Fox Meadow Middle School in Harrison District 2 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I have worked with students who have moderate, effective, and cognitive needs throughout my career as a paraprofessional and as a special educator. I teach because I love kids and feel that I can and do make a difference in their lives, I have an Undergraduate degree in Business Administration. While on a tour of duty as a dependent in Germany, I would often volunteer in my daughter’s classroom . One day while in her classroom, her teacher stated that there was a special education classroom down the hallway, and that the teacher could use some help with her students. I started volunteering in that classroom and fell in love with the students there who had severe physical and cognitive disabilities. Suddenly, I had a change of heart and realized that I had found the opportunity to do what I enjoyed tremendously and loved Upon my return to the United States, I applied and was accepted into Graduate school to pursue a Master’s Degree in Special Education. Over the years, I can say that I made the right decision to teach students with special needs. l have truly loved teaching, advocating, and supporting these students. The students have enriched my life also (my way of thinking , caring, and supporting others).

I instruct my students on Business Principles. I am truly passionate about providing relevant and real-world experiences to ensure that all students have the best educational foundation to be successful. Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

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Mariam Dagen Language Arts Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

What do you love most about what you do? The work. The students. I love the students. The reason I teach is to create those personal relationships and let my students know that I truly want them to do well in school. It’s important to get to know each student individually and let them know that I may be stern, but I do care about them, and I’m not only interested in them making good grades. They are human, you know, little humans, and they have questions. Sometimes, they don’t feel like they’re being heard, and I try to make sure that they know I am listening. It’s great to witness those moments when they finally understand something and realize why I may have been pushing them. Some days I may come in feeling low, and having a hard day and all I need to hear is “Good morning Ms. Dagen!” and it has the power to change my whole day for the better. It is definitely powerful. What is the best advice you ever received about your impact on education? The best advice I received was to not downplay my contribution as an educator. A lot of times people say to me that I’m great at what I do, and I find myself wondering if they are patronizing me. Someone stopped me and told me, “Stop belittling what you do, you’re good at what you do.” I learned that it’s ok to accept that, and run with it. Another thing I’ll always remember is that we are all in this thing together. We’re here for the kids. We want them to do well in school, in life, and we want to make sure they know that they’re important. Talisa Caldwell

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Deann Williams Social Studies Teacher Eagle Crest High School Centennial, CO

Why do you think education is important? I think that everybody should have the opportunity and the right to receive education, If it’s something that they want. I feel that it elevates us and it is it puts us in the space where we’re able to create change. It helps us learn from our past, that way we can create a new future for new generations. I feel that education allows us to evolve, and so I believe that everybody should have access to it, if that’s what they want. What do you love most about your role in education? I love the relationships. I’m able to build with my students. I had a very unique experience at my own high school. I had adults that really cared not only about me as a student but me as a person as well. They cared about my family, they cared really just overall about my life. So I really want to do that for my students. I really love having the opportunity to just be in someone’s corner cheering them on, when they feel that they are unable to get with they’re parents or others within their city. I just love being that person, that adult figure that kids can come to and have a conversation with. So building relationships is my favorite part about it all. So what is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? The best advice that I have received I would say, is that it’s okay for you to not have all the answers. that you should not ever go into a space feeling like you have to lie to kids because kids will pick up on that type of stuff. You should be able to say, “I might not know the answers to that but let’s take the time together to figure out what that answer would be.” Interview By by Camiio Patton

Pg. 48 | High School Educators

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Sir Harry Knight

Engineering Computer Science Teacher Fountain Ft. Carson High School Fountain, CO Why do you think education is important? It is to give our students tools to go out in the real world to make educated decisions. Our job is to give them the tools so that they can think when they are on their own to make good decisions. Of course, Covid-19 has certainly put a wrench in education. Technology is what we do in education now. It is how we use that technology to help our kids that is the key. The students themselves have not changed. Take a freshman this year and a freshman five years ago, they have the same issues, they are wide-eyed and fresh. Take a senior from five years ago to 2020, we did not have laptops then and now every kid has a laptop, everything is instantaneous. We all did not have cell phones, all students did not have cell phones, but now they do. We have teachers that know technology and we have some that are learning but still struggle. Teaching must be different and relatable to the kids. They might have more awareness about what them is around due to technology. Reading news on technology can be looked up on phones, but we still students that do not know what is in the news. If it is not on the latest app, they may never know what they have missed. So, we must help our students through the new If they chose to use technology but that is up to the individual. Education is meant for gathering knowledge and then having that knowledge relate to lives. It is also the ability to apply it in this world and to know the value of life. Finally, it does not limit with self-education, there is no end for education, as in each stage of human life we learn something. like the relationships that I have built with students in front of me. Interview By Shirley Martinez

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Aleshia Armour Principal Overland High School Aurora, CO

I lead an international high school of nearly 2,400 students to be young men and women that value their education, their time and the community in which we live. As our country experiences an awakening when it comes to race in America, I wake up each morning, look in the mirror and challenge myself to lead and inspire staff to value cultural diversity. I challenge myself to set an example for all of my students, but particularly my students of color, when it comes utilizing education as a tool for fighting oppression, discrimination and ignorance. I knew I wanted to be a high school principal when I was a student walking the halls of George Washington High School. I saw the impact a principal’s values could have on a student’s entire perception of education. A principal that values the voices and diverse experiences of their students makes all the difference in the world. That principal demonstrates to students the importance of educating themselves and speaking truth to power which is an invaluable lesson that will carry them throughout their lives. One of my favorite quotes comes from poet Audre Lorde who said, “Your silence will not protect you.” Every day I hope to inspire young people to learn, speak and act. That’s the principal I hope to be.

Pg. 50 | High School Educators

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Melva Hall

College Readiness Academy Sierra High School Colorado Springs, CO I began working in education back in the early 80s right out of college. I started working as a paraprofessional even though I had a four-year degree. My degree is in Criminal Justice. I moved to California. My husband was in the military and the only job that I could really find at the time was working at a school as a teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aide. When I left California, we moved to Arizona where I briefly worked there until we settled in Colorado Springs. My first job here was at Palmer high school as a paraprofessional. I worked as security and then became the study hall supervisor. In 1992 I went back to school and earned my masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Counseling and Human services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. I worked at Palmer High as a counselor for one year. After ten years of working there, I headed off to Sierra High School and retired after 21 years there. I served as department chair for at least 15 years. I retired after 35 years in education in 2017: 31 one of those years in Colorado Springs. I am currently working at the College Readiness Academy which is housed at Sierra. I love every day that I walk in the building and I really miss the students. I do this because I remember when I was in high school, I really didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any teachers or counselors that helped me figure out what I needed to di to get into college. My parents and I had to figure it out ourselves. I love helping take some of the fears and stress from students and parents when they are trying to make decisions about careers and college. I have this unconditional love for Harrison School District #2 and the community that surrounds it. It is a pleasure to celebrate all of the achievements that the students have and are making because of all of the staff members who believe in them. I am proud to be one of them.

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Antoinette Gifford

Cassandra Berry

Antoinette is a passionate educator teaching the Criminal Justice and Law Program in Cherry Creek School District (Overland High School/Smoky Hill High School). As an affiliate instructor with Community College of Aurora, students receive concurrent enrollment credit for coursework. I teach to give a necessary perspective of American legal history to our students and to allow our students to further use their voice. This profession allows me to fulfil my purpose. Grateful.

As principal of Eastlake High School, I manage the day-to-day operations of the school, manage all staff, collaborate with Colorado Springs D11, connect with students, parents and the community.

Criminal Justice & Law Teacher Cherry Creek School District Aurora, CO

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Principal Eastlake Highschool Colorado Springs, CO

It is my responsibility to provide a safe place for all students, however in particular, student at-risk. My passion is not only educating students of color, but also sparking a passion for educating students in all my staff. I am a mentor of educators and for students. I am a resource for my community. I am a lifelong learner sharing my knowledge with my community.

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Christopher Morgan Malcinia Conley Language Arts Teacher Collegiate Prep Academy Denver, CO

My role is a conduit to uncover the natural talents, prior knowledge, and intellectual richness of Students of Color. Through the use of emancipatory texts grounded in social justice, I connect with students authentically. The students know that I care and will show up for them.

Tywanna L. Jones Social Studies Teacher Byers High School Denver, CO

I educate high school students in Humanities and Composition by giving instruction in the required curriculum and instilling Black history and personal experience facts. Supporting students personally through conversation and resources. Giving our students opportunity through education and instilling the importance of mind enrichment and mentorship is priceless.

World History Teacher & Coach Mountain Range High School Westminster, CO

Growing up I’m Atlanta I was friends with a lot of students who were just being passed through the system because they were good at sports. As we continued to grow older a lot of these students fell through the cracks with many of them not finishing college or becoming ineligible because they did not have the correct foundation. At that point I knew I needed to dedicate my life to helping kids reach their goals on the court as well as I’m the classroom. I currently am a high school history teacher that covers Government, Economics, and World History. To add on to that I am a basketball coach at the school and a track coach which helps me to engage the kids in an environment that they want to be in after school.

Crystal Gillis-Drayton Physical Education & Health Cherry Creek School District Greenwood Village, CO

I teach Physical Education and health. Along with supporting minority students through equity inside the school district by associating myself with Diversity leadership teams and Sisterhood. Outside the school system I recently joined the NAACP Aurora branch and YAASPA. Both organizations support minority youth. Equity, inclusion, diversity are what need to truly be looked at in order for the school system to truly be dismantled. Systemic racism needs to be dismantled in order for our youth to truly grow.

Christopher Gunn

Sociology Teacher & Basketball Coach Mitchell High School Colorado Springs, CO What advice do you have for future generations? I would tell them to not settle, and always ask questions and do your own research. If you’re not satisfied with the answer you get, then search for a different one. In my classroom, I don’t teach

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Donte’ L. Stewart Principal & Athletic Director Ellicott High School Calhan, CO

I love kids. I was the 1st Black educator in Ellicotts school district for 20+ years. I also was the varsity football coach for many years. I’ve been recruiting other Black teachers to come out east teach with me. H i g h S c ho ol E duc at or s | Pg. 5 3

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Michael Armour

Football Coach - Tight Ends University of Northern Colorado Greely, CO What role do you play in education as a coach, and how long have you been coaching for? Well, I’ve been coaching for 24 years. My role as a coach also expands to being a teacher for my players, as well as a person who’s going to provide guidance on and off the field. What I want to do is give back to young men and be able to give them some of the teachings that were given to me throughout my playing and coaching career. Why do you think that football itself is important as part of education? First of all, football teaches them some core values including the importance of family, perseverance, and really sticking it out when times get hard. Also, we aim for 100% graduation of all of our student athletes because we believe that education and football is tied together. Both of them are beneficial to creating wholesome individuals with high chances of success. I’m always just trying to get better myself, and teach each of my players to strive for excellence. What is it that you love most about being a coach? What I really like is seeing those young men go across the stage, and achieve the one of the greatest accomplishments in my eyes, which is obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree and completing college. Also, when it comes to things off the field, I get to watch them become productive in the workforce and start their own families. I strive to be a role model for them. They become like my own sons, a lot of times I’m a father figure to him or big brother or uncle. I want to always be a positive force in their lives, and although sometimes they might not agree, I think it’d be better for them in the long run. Interview By Talisa Caldwell

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Dr. Regina Lewis

Department Chair Of Communication Pikes Peak Community College Colorado Springs, CO What got you into education and why do you do it? As far as what got me into education, it was all by accident. I had no idea that I would ever teach. I got my associates in General Studies. And then I did a combination degree in Psychology and in Communication and I was in a classroom and we had to present a project. A 10-minute presentation and afterwards I got a standing ovation which I thought was strange. A couple weeks later, I got a phone call from Pikes Peak Community College, even before I finished my degree, asking me if I wanted to teach. I didn’t think they paid enough money, so I talked to my mother about it and she said, “well how much money are you making now, honey?” I said “none”. She said “then take the job”. It was all by accident that I went into teaching, but once I got there, I found out that many of the students carry the same story that I had, struggling through education, fearful of Education because of not knowing people who have gone before you and not knowing the hidden rules and behaviors. So this is when I felt like this is where my heart is. I love the Community College because it’s a place where all types of people come. I like to spark the genius of our students. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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Melinda Joy Mingo Ph.D. Instructor Pikes Peak Community College Colorado Springs, CO

Growing up in inner city Chicago in one of the most infamous project communities Cabrini Green, I had a feeling when I was 13 that I was going to become an educator in some arena. I watched my friends become drop-outs in 7th grade as they were always made fun of because of the lack of nice clothing, poverty, and being labeled losers.

ana. I studied under blankets with a flashlight and I persevered through homelessness because I wanted to do something that would not just allow me to earn degrees but rather to encourage my students who would be in turbulent situations to always press towards something that is greater than their present situation.

anyone in the education realm is to `always remember your `why'. The WHY is all of the reasons that we wanted to become educators in the first p;ace. It is the lives we continually want to impact, the endless opportunities to encourage others along the way, and to be a catalyst of significant life change to others in positive ways.

Education can be a thankless and tiring profession but more than anything it is so fulfilling and rewarding. My advice and encouragement to new instructors, teachers, and

"Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire." William Butler Yeats

At 13 years old, I started a leadership club on the weekends in the back of the alley with any young person who had dropped out of school by offering `free snacks'. I saved my money every week to buy snacks for children from 8 - 16 years old with one caveat - they had to first tell me every week what they were going to do to impact the world and if they would go back to school. I know that most of the kids only came for treats, but I knew when everyone started calling me `Cabrini Green Teacher' that something was being stirred in me to help people see their value and worth - no matter the age. I absolutely love being an educator and coach! I am an employment law and communications professor at several colleges and each time I enter a classroom or training facility I am thinking of the opportunities I will have to not just teach academic subjects or train in leadership skills but to also remind my students regardless of their age of their value and worth. Education for me is not just confined to a classroom setting and each person that I am in front of has a purpose in mind for what they want to achieve and my goal is yo help people believe in themselves and actually become champions of their own goals and destiny.. I always try to encourage my students regardless of their age that what they study can be transformed into real life goals when learning goes beyond a textbook to real life application, community service, and civic responsibility. I was homeless when I first began my studies for my Bachelor Degree in business and was living in a homeless shelter in IndiRead full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

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Jasmin Holmes Professor of Fine Arts Colorado State University Fort Collins, CO

Why do you feel what you do is important? I feel that it’s important because of the lack of diversity in higher education. It’s important to see diversity, especially in professors, so that students can see that as an opportunity for themselves. Growing up in Southern Florida, and I never had a black professor or a black teacher. It wasn’t until college that I realized that I wanted to become the professor I never had the chance to see. I wanted to be that person that people could try to see themselves in. Why did you choose to teach Fine Arts? I’ve been drawing my whole life, honestly. My parents are artists, and I grew up always drawing and creating art, so I could never really imagine doing anything else. I feel like art is one of the biggest forms of representation and protest against the status quo. It is an important medium that tends to get overlooked. It is extremely needed in society to combat the status quo and to bring up discourse. Art is a great way to express your soul when the words are hard to find. What do you love the most about what you do? I love interacting with students and finding out exactly what they want to do. Exploring how they want to express themselves, and figuring out ways to help them do it. The only reason why I teach is to help students find themselves and their artistic voice. It’s really nice to then see that student able to go out and make changes in the world. What is the best advice you ever received about your impact on education? When I was getting my Bachelor’s--around the time when I was realizing that I had never had a professor that looked like me-I had a teacher who became like family to me, James Gregory Saunders. He told me that art should mean whatever you want it to mean, and that there’s no label on art. He said that you should fight for your right to do whatever you want to do, and that no one can tell you what to do with your art. -Written by Talisa Caldwell

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Dr. Sheryl Smith

Associate Professor Business Administration Metropolitan State University Of Denver Education is my passion, thus, it is my sincere desire to enhance the knowledge of young people of today regarding the intricacies of the business environment. One of the centerpieces I uphold in any course I teach is critical thinking. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society, there are many challenging aspects that must be overcome and as entrepreneurs and managers, we must be prepared to look at situations from all aspects in order to make a sound decision for the organization, for our followers, and for ourselves. It has been said that each of us will influence at least ten thousand people in our lifetime; thus, the question is not whether you will influence someone, but how you will use your influence (Maxwell, 2002). It is my goal, to help each student develop their leadership ability and increase organizational success.

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Janet Brugger

Adjunct Instructor Business & Mathematics Pikes Peak Community College Colorado Springs, CO The potential to transform the lives of my students is a grounding and humbling experience. It gives me the opportunity to not only help students academically, but at times emotionally just by listening. Teaching is a calling, and no one enters it without their inner voice telling them that. Teaching gives me the chance to be innovative by ensuring the learning environment is creative and interesting to engage the students. A growth mindset is the foundation of teaching. I have so many opportunities to try new ideas and share my experiences to ensure an optimum learning environment is created.

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Darlene Sampson, Ph.D. Equity Specialist Principal Analyst Metropolitan State University of Denver

Dr. Darlene Sampson lives by her late parent’s mantra: “Giving back to others is in your DNA-you must respect and honor the shoulders you have stood on.” With that thinking in mind, Dr. Sampson has maintained a space of social justice and cultural humility as she works across the education and social work fields as an administrator, leader, and equity specialist. Dr. Sampson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and also earned a Ph.D., in Educational Leadership with emphasis on Culturally Responsive Pedagogy.

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Jamal Bowen

Lynn Wilson

Professor / Instructor Business and Entrepreneurship Community College of Denver

Associate Professor Business & Entreprenuership Community College Of Denver

What do you love most about your role in education?

We have to be very conscious of our audience and I think that being an African-American male in a dominated Caucasian environment is also important, because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m representing the first generation minorities students. My parents had no clue about financial aid, and neither did I. Now, I get to help those firstgeneration students navigate through the higher education environment, and provide onboarding platforms and programs that will make them feel welcome.

What I love most is being able to create leaders. I enjoyed seeing my students take what I taught them and apply it to the real world. I feel that thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best thing I have ever done. Being able to just pass down education or knowledge to these students and see them go into their communities and help their communities grow. Interview By Kenya Fashaw

Interview By Talisa Caldwell

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Cameron Simmons

Anthony Starke

Assistant Director Undergraduate Admission University of Denver

Assistant Professor of Public Affairs Equity Diversity and Inclusion University of Colorado | Denver

As a professional I work to create a more diverse and inclusive campus through my role as an Admission Counselor on the diversity and access team. In this position, I have been able to advise the Black Student Alliance, serve as the admissions liaison for several community-based organizations serving underrepresented, low income, first generation students. Additionally I assist in the coordination of the Black Male Initiative Summit and Black Women LEAD conference, and I am the founder of the first racial affinity group at DU for staff and faculty called Black@DU.

Dr. Starke worked as a human services practitioner engaging with public and private service providers. His work broadly orbits around issues of democracy, identity, citizenship, and social equity. His research includes specific interests in vulnerable and traditionally marginalized populations, public service education, and liberation.

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Manya Whitaker, PhD

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Associate Professor of Education Colorado College in Colorado Springs

I am an Associate Professor and Chair of Education at Colorado College. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dartmouth College prior to obtaining a Master of Education in Leadership, Policy, and Organization, a Master of Science in Psychology, and a Doctorate in Psychology from Vanderbilt University. From Montessori school, through the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, to the Ivy League, I spent my entire P-20 career as “the only”. I was the only Black girl, the only one from public school, the only one whose parents aren’t financially supporting them, and now, only the fourth Black woman to ever be tenured at Colorado College, which ranks #2 in the country for having the most students from the top 1%. But those aren’t the only kids in my classes. As an education professor, I teach the kids who don’t feel as if they “fit” in other disciplines. My students are the ones whose K-12 experiences taught them that the system is broken, especially for working class, first generation kids who want the opportunity to attend an elite private liberal arts college with a $70,000 annual price tag. These students, be them education majors/minors or not, are ‘my kids’ because in this space, in this sociopolitical climate, they need me. Like most women of color faculty, I spend enormous amounts of time trying to undo the socioemotional harm that continues to be inflicted upon marginalized students by a society that glosses over, ignores, or outright rejects their humanity. I wipe tears, listen to rants, and allay fears that they are not enough. This is tough work mostly because I am one person working against a lifelong narrative of neglect, experienced largely at the hands of an oppressive education system that if anything, is worse in higher education. I recognize that my ability to reform education is minimal. But as a teacher educator I can do my part to challenge those pursuing a career in education to examine their motivations, be honest about their skillset, and to encourage them to view teaching as a political act through courses such as Urban Education, Diversity & Equity in Education, and Teacher and Teaching Identities, among others. Women of Color Academics.

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Tutmose Academy Founded By Dr. Anthony Young

Why did you launch the school? In 1990, the Tutmose Academy was initially named the Inroads Family and Community Services organization. In the beginning, the mission was to mentor high-risk kids who had been expelled from the traditional education system, however it was illegal for these troubled children to go to charter schools in Colorado at that time. Eventually, the laws changed, and the state provided financial backing to help work with kids who were on probation and to provide life skills training for programs such as anger management and critical thinking. In addition to teachers, we also had paid mentors who were on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All of our clients were young men between the ages of 13 and 18 who were on

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probation and were sent to our program as an alternative to youth detention facilities. Even though our school was open to all, my focus was really to impact the lives of young African Americans What were some accomplishments you are proud of? We were the first charter school in the Harrison School District in Colorado Springs. In 1999, we were presented with the El Pomar Foundation â&#x20AC;&#x153;Excellence in Educationâ&#x20AC;? award, which recognized our unique model that assisted these youth who were in need. In fact, on the C-SAP test, which was the standardized test for public schools, we beat two local high schools in reading and math. It was a significant accomplishment because these were kids who society had discarded. We were able to demonstrate that through a unique program, we could have students

perform at high levels and improve their behavior. Many of them had previously been in trouble with the Juvenile Justice System. Our students wore uniforms to avoid wearing gang attire. This also gave them a sense of dignity since some of them could not afford nice clothes. Occasionally, I see some of the students from our first graduating class, and I am proud to say, are pursuing productive lives. The most significant achievement was helping teenagers create positive futures despite the odds and challenges of their childhood. Unfortunately, becasue of the lack of resources, our charter school closed. However many are grateful for the years we provided this service to our community which changed the trajectory of the lives of so many young people. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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Dr. Anthony P Young Psychologist & Professor

I grew up in a single-parent household in the projects on the Southside of Chicago. I reasoned that if I could solve my own problems, I might be skilled enough to help others. So, I decided to pursue a career in psychology. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been practicing mental health in Colorado for over forty years. I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology which I obtained from the University of Denver. As well, I have been teaching Psychology courses for twenty-six years at the University of Colorado. In the past, I partnered with the Department of Corrections and the Mental Health Institute in Pueblo, where I treated the criminally insane in maximum security prisons. Furthermore, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been Chairman of The State parole board. I launched a charter school for high-risk minorities in Colorado Springs. Currently, I fulfill the role as president of the Denver Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists. How did you come to be a founding member and former president of the Association of Black Psychologists? Many of the founding members of the American Psychological Association were eugenicists, essentially White supremacists. Many United States policies concerning the housing and education of African-Americans were constructed upon the skewed models that eugenicists created. So, rather than appeal to the White Psychologist association, we decided to form our own independent organization in 1968. The association of Black Psychologists foremost serves as an arena in which we focus on addressing the mental health needs of the Black community. We have mentored hundreds of African American psychology students and assisted early career professionals to become established in the field of psychology. Intervierw By Brandon Bornes Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

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Idris Goodwin

Director Fine Arts Center at Colorado College Colorado Springs, CO What is your role as an educator and how long have you been doing that for? I have been a part of the educational platform for a long time, roughly 15 years. I started out as a teaching artist in Chicago, teaching poetry and spoken word in schools and community organizations. I also taught in New Mexico and Iowa, then I made my way to Colorado. There I was a professor at Colorado College for six years as well as an assistant professor in theater,dance, and playwriting. Now, my role has shifted more into Arts Administration, where I do things like Q and A’s and teach the occasional workshop. My values as an educator influence everything that I’ve done, from the type of work that I write, to the type of projects that I’ve helped organize. I believe in using the arts to educate people and to spark conversation. In the wake of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd issues, I’ve released a series of free plays called Free Plays Open Source Scripts for an Anti-Racist Tomorrow aimed at multigenerational readers to create conversations about race, racism, and Black History. Why do you feel what you do is important? I think that issues like racism are taught and passed down through generations, and are centuries old. Only in recent times has the general public become familiar with the terms Black Lives Matter and anti-racism. It’s going to take some time to teach these things and to unlearn negative points of view and perspectives. I believe that the Arts are a powerful way to do that. We can facilitate spaces where people can gather to tell their story, and listen to others. I believe that it’s only through education that the world becomes better. It is how we can become better stewards of the world and of each other.

What do you love most about what you do? I love people. I find humanity very fascinating, wonderful, and frustrating. We are capable of beautiful and terrible things. I believe that the Arts are an examination of the human experience, and I love being a part of that. What is the best advice you ever received about your impact on education? Starting out, I was a very young educator, and---like a lot of young educators are---I was somewhat insecure. Though I am still workin on that at times, I learned to go in and just began to talk to people and ask questions. The best advice I ever received was to learn about the power of listening. It is important to be an active listener and show people that you care about what they are saying by paying attention. It can be so much more powerful than what you say to them. What advice would you have for future generations? I would tell the future generations that we all have a responsibility to this world. People fought for us to enjoy the life that we have now, and it is also our duty to play our part for the next generation. We all have our dues to pay to humanity. I would also tell them to learn from other human beings by watching and observing them. Whether you are an educator or not, you still are teaching others every day by your actions. There’s always someone younger than you who is watching and learning from you, whether you like it or not. You may as well be aware of that, and pay attention to what it is that you’re teaching. What are you passing down? What are you leaving as your legacy? You can have a positive or negative influence on the world, but that is your choice. Written by Talisa Caldwell

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Rashaan Davis Campus Administrator Smoky Hill High School Aurora, CO

What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? Be in it to win it! Ultimately we all should strive to be better and everything along the way in some way helps. Even when there were people who were getting on to me about things in a negative way, all of that was really helpful to get me to where I am. Pacing myself is also important. I am in this for the long haul and I think knowing that has been really helpful to me. Knowing that change does not happen in a day means that kids are not buying into me because of one unit or one lesson. Staff members are not asking to be a part of staff development because of something you did in one moment. They are looking at the sum total of you. That is when they get the best of me and that is why it is important to pace myself. It is a journey and a career. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? Do your homework! So many of us got cheated in our formative years because we did not get to see all sides of any career. We see the parts we like and the part others think we should see. With education, people do not get to see what we experience every day. It is not all great but it is very good overall. If you follow the news, you see parts of education that people want you to see; however, there is much more to it. To be in the trenches of any career, especially education, is high stakes like no other. We are developing our future Politicians, Lawyers, Doctors, Librarians, even Postmen and women. People have to really dig into looking into education from all angles. It should never be about money because if you do good work, good money will follow. I firmly believe that if you take a deep look into what education offers us, our families, and the world; at every level it is a great career to pursue. This is what I would stress to the young people! Interview By Milton Whipple Pg. 68 |Suppor t Staff | Administrators & Counselors

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Jamaal Jackson

School Social Worker Cherry Creek Public Schools Green Village, CO What do you love most about your role in education? I love the fact that you do not see many male, black Social Workers. I love for younger, black males to see that you can be something other than the stereotypical black male (an entertainer or an athlete). Being a source of inspiration to young men encourages them to step outside of the box and venture into new territories. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? The fact that I am needed, especially considering that I am in a field where I am usually the only person of color and only male. It is always a pleasure when I tell my story that people tell me my spirit and voice is needed. I am needed and I will continue making positive strides in my line of work. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? It is more than just education; it is about life! I would tell the younger generation to find something that they like and take their time with it and find joy in it as well. It is important to take your time because you will be an adult before you know it. Really take advantage of the close relationships you form with people within the schoolwhether it is with the principal or if it is with the janitor. Take in the valuable information they give you because when you grow into an adult you will look back and realize that those people helped a lot with molding you into the individual that you will become. Even if they do not necessarily help you out, you can learn a lot vicariously through them and their lives. Be present in the moment when you are going through educational experiences and make sure to enjoy it! Interview By Milton Whipple

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Dr. Rhonda Richmond

Brittany Joyce

Special Education Cherry Creek School District Greenwood Village, CO

Communications Director Highline Academy Charter Schools Denver, CO

As an individual with autism and learning disabilities in reading, writing and math, in addition to being a parent with disabilities, it was vital to me to work with students who have an educational identified disability. I wanted them to see that they have options, that they are intelligent, and they will succeed. I get to work with some our most impacted students and I get the added benefit of watching them take flight.

Faith is what brought Brittany to Highline Academy in 2018 after 14 years in Corporate America. There was a prompting in her spirit to avail herself to the community to make a greater impact; to leverage her skills and experiences to serve teachers and students. Brittany has always had a desire to serve in the community, leading service projects from her time as a Girl Scout, as a youth ministry leader, and to the present day. Brittany has an interest in supporting families to achieve financial freedom, creating sustainable practices to protect the environment, and helping students realize their potential. Brittany has been married to her husband for 12 years and they have a 7 year-old daughter. positively influence the student and teacher experience.

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Keena Day

Senior Manager of Humanities DSST Public Schools Denver, CO I believe that literacy acquisition is a civil right, and I work with school districts/ network, school leadership, parents and teachers to restructure literacy structures to improve access for all students. I am a seventeen year literacy educator who has taught grades 6-12 ELA and AP courses in public schools and as an adjunct writing professor at the collegiate level. Spending time preparing the next generation and arming them with critical thinking and literacy skills while learning about their lives and creating relationships with families is why I continue to do what I do. Now as a curriculum and instruction administrator, I know I must work to disrupt systems of Eurocentric approaches to literacy. I am encouraged to implement a transformative literacy program and improve not only state literacy scores for our schools, but to emphatically increase studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; readiness for career, college and beyond. Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Dwight Gentry Educational Counselor

As an educational counselor, I mentor students from the first grade through twelfth grade-graduating seniors, providing academic support and resources for success, utilizing a social, emotional model to encourage their productivity in school, support through difficult situations, and facilitate personal growth. I engage their parents/caregivers, teachers, and coaches to capture the full spectrum of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs and establish a template to activate their success, and introduce students to activities that broaden their perspective, and/or engage their social skills. It is vital to establish a model and template toward success for many of our students, while helping them with resources to ensure their success. Some of our students need additional support to achieve better grades, to make better life choices, and to plan for post-high school experiences, such as college.

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AJ Walls

Instructional Coach Jefferson County Head Start Arvada, CO What is your name, what role do you play in education, how long have you been in education? AJ Walls recently received a promotion to Instructional Coach. Prior to that, AJ was a Lead Teacher seven years. AJ has been in the education field for a total of eight years. AJ has a passion for working with children with challenging behaviors. Why do you think education is important? It is the key; it is the antidote to ignorance. Education is the way that we set ourselves free. Learning not to make the same mistakes that we have made in the past is a part of becoming a critical thinker. I chose to work with preschool age kids because I want to give them an opportunity to love education, especially as it relates to their first encounters of learning and engaging critically. I make sure that they enjoy their experiences and

that I provide them with the tools to continue to be successful. It is important for children to see people that look like me teaching and holding a position that requires education. What do you love most about your role in education? Being the â&#x20AC;&#x153;safe personâ&#x20AC;? for children with challenging behaviors. Allowing them to see that not everyone is judgmental and that moving forward I can help them turn it around and build the necessary skills needed. I love being able to model for my peers and fellow teachers that kids can be successful under the right conditions. It is ultimately up to professionals like us to help set those conditions for children to be successful.

America, we often feel forced to assimilate in order to be successful. It is important for me to embrace the way I learned and use those tools to connect with my students. I choose to play music and use language that reflects my culture. It is essential to stay true to who I am and what I value versus feeling like I have to be someone else. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education?

What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector?

Take every opportunity you can to educate yourself about any topic that you can. The more knowledge you have, the more power you have to affect change. This also leads to growth and being able to create more opportunities for yourself. Never miss an opportunity to learn, grow, and experience. You will never regret it!

Stay true to myself. As black people in

Interview By Milton Whipple

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Ahmad Lowe

Director Of Communications Highline Academy Charter Schools Denver, CO I oversee our campus communications, marketing, website, social media, community relations, strategic planning, event planning, fundraising, alumni scholarship and Board management.

Mary Katungu Hearing Acuity Soecialist Colorado Springs, CO

I hold a Colorado Certificates in the following areas: Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (0-21) , English as a Second Language (Culturally and Linguistically Reverse Education (CLDE) and Principal License. I am fluent in American Sign Language. I am a dedicated, resourceful and data-driven experienced public school educator with a sold commitment to helping others succeed. A lifelong learner, hard worker and able to collaborate with staff and administrators of an organization to accomplish their goals.

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Nathaniel Granger Professor of Psychology Pikes Peak Community College Colorado Springs, CO

Nathaniel Granger, Jr., PsyD, a Chicago native, is a Past-President of Division 32 of the American Psychological Association (Society for Humanistic Psychology) and an adjunct professor at Saybrook University. As a Psychology Instructor at Pikes Peak Community College for almost 15 years, he received the 2007 Honor Role Award for his transformational style of teaching and leadership, which facilitated in an increase in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retention rate among marginalized groups. He serves as an editor of University Professorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Press and is the Treasurer of Rocky Mountain Counseling and Psychological Association (RMHCPA).

Suppor t Staff | Administrators & Counselors | Pg. 73

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Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion, Inc. (CBI/ CCI) was established as a multi-cultural, all-inclusive program designed for high school students in the Denver Metropolitan area to provide personal development experiences and recognition.

CBI/CCI exposes each participant to prominent professionals, rigorous workshops and activities that are both challenging and rewarding. These programs are meant to enhance the lives of these notable young people.

Our Mission

The goal of CBI/CCI is to develop the total person and help the participants to achieve their personal, academic and professional goals while making meaningful contributions to their communities.

Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion, Inc. (CBI/ CCI) is a youth mentoring program designed to impart wholesome values and equip high school juniors and seniors with vital life skills and prepare them to be successful leaders, role models and citizens. This program was founded and is mentored by some of Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most distinguished clergy, professionals and community leaders. Our mission is to reach those hidden jewels within various communities. We seek to uncover, mentor and reward youth who have not been afforded the same opportunities as those from more affluent backgrounds and to prepare them to make significant contributions to their respective communities.

Pg. 74 |Student Features

History In June 2010, through a meeting of the minds and merger of efforts, CBI/CCI was developed by a group of well established and distinguished Individuals and businesses spearheaded by ACW Marketing & Event Planning and Bouknight & Associates, along with assistance from a dedicated group of accomplished professionals. These innovative, reputable and results-oriented individuals and business entities brainstormed on ways to enhance the character, educational and social experience of young people. Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Shamarah Henderson

Jaiden Cunningham

Attended: Thornton High School

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Honor Role College Preference: Crowely College

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Career Goal: Athletic Trainer

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Achievements: • Volunteer for the Daddy Bruce Thanksgiving Feed and Cole Community Block Party for Multiple Year • Multiple outreach missions through the Colorado Grizzlies Basketball Organization • 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach for the Lady Grizzlies • Basketball Skills and Development Trainer • 2 Year Link Leader at Thornton HS • 2019 Thornton HS Track Rookie of the Year

• • • • •

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Graduate of Overland High School 3.2 Unweighted Attending Morehouse College Honor Roll Medal of Excellence for State Thespian competition Colorado State Thespian Actors Critics Choice Award and Scholarship State Thespian Inductee Cherry Creek New Teacher Orientation MC Advanced Acting Varsity Football Captain Sources of Strength Committee DECA Vice President Overland Chapter I want people to know that I walk with my back tight for multiple reasons: Good health and alignment, better vision, the respect of my parents, carry in through hardships, and a discipline to prevent being wrongly caught up by those that do not want to see young black men winning.

Basketball Career • Points 1,399 Rebounds 990 • 3 Year Team Captain • 3 Year 1st Team All Conference • 3 Year EMAC All Star • 3 Year All State HM • ”The Show” Colorado Top 40 All Star Select • CHSCA All Star Select • 2020 EMAC Player of the Year Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Student Features | Pg. 75

Virgyl Gerdine

Tai’lynn Green

Trinity Washington

Attended: Contemporary Learning Academy

Attended: Overland High School

Attended: Denver East High School

Honor Role 3.0 GPA

4 Year Honor Roll Student: 3.6 GPA

4 Year Honor Roll Student: 4.4 GPA

College Preference: Berkley School of Music

College Preference: Purdue or Cal Poly Tech

College Preference: Georgia State University & Spelman

Major: Music Engineer, Theater, Arranger and Writer

Major: Aerospace Engineer

Major: Entrepreneur

Achievements: • Community Leader • 5 Points Ambassador • Vocalist – Leader Role in High School • Musician • Theater Arts at Manual High School

Achievements: • National Honors Society Committee Chair • Math Honors President • Accelerated Placement Student • Student Pilots License • FRC Robotics • 3 Year Varsity Poms

Career Goals: Business Owner & Choreographer

Pg. 76 |Student Features

Achievements: • National Honors Society • Senior Representative for Black Student Alliance • 10 Colorado Uplift Member • Outstanding Achievement in Dance • Adaptive Dance Instructor • Dance Council Representative • Mentor for underclass Black Girls at Denver East High School • Performer at Denver Martin Luther King Assembly

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Aaliyah Fuller

Andaiza Dockery

Daquise Watson

Attended: DSST Green Valley

Attended: Manual High School

Attends: Manual High School

Academic Honors: 4.2 GPA

Academic Honors: 4 Year Honor Roll Student

College Preferences: CSU-Pueblo

College Preference: Prairie View A&M University

College Preference: University of Northern Colorado

Career Goal: Psychologist

Peer Leader with the Black Student Alliance • An accomplished Multi-Sport Athlete (Volleyball, Tennis and Basketball) • Active member with several nonprofit organizations: Sister in Service, Sigma Gamma Rho Rhoer Club; Corresponding Secretary for Jack & Jill • Started her own “Beauty Brand” that won her second place at the National Jack & Jill Conference

Major: Pre-Medicine

Accomplishments • Principle List • Gifted & Talented • Stars Mentoring • Five Point Youth Ambassador • Lettered all four years in and Captain: Basketball, Cheer and Track • Writing Center • High School Musical Performer • Lettered in & Captain of: Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Cheer • Notable accomplishments: High School Musicals, Yearbook Staff & Writing Center

Aaliyha embodies excellence and finer womanhood. She is gracious, tenacious, has strong morals and lofty personal and professional goals. She will be attending Prairie View University and pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. Aaliyha was most recently recognized as an outstanding Youth Leaders by the National Council of Negro Women.

Achievements: • Senior Class President • 2018-20 Principle List • Certified Nurse Assistant • Certified Basic Life Support • Accelerated Placement Student • College Ready in Math and English • Student Council Leader • Star Mentor • Exceptional Attendance Award • Past Kappa Vou Sorority President • Year Book Staff • High School Musical Performing Artist • Faces Student • Cheer Captain and Cheer MVP

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Student Features | Pg. 77

Delonte Dickey

Dennis Flippin-Hitch

Donna Winesberry

Attends: Cherry Creek HS

Attends: Vista Peak Preparatory

Attended: Denver School of Science and Technology GVR

Academic Honors: 3.4 GPA College Preferences: Nebraska Kearney University Football Scholarship Career Goal: Sports Management Accomplishments • Black Student Union • Lettered In: Basketball, Track & • Football Captain: State Champions • Creek Football Sack Leader • Football All Conference Selection • Played in All American Bowl Game • FCA Volunteer Basketball Coach • Community Service Projects

Pg. 78 |Student Features

College: College Morehouse College

Academic Honors: Honor Roll

Major: Engineer Accomplishments • Link Leader Crew” a mentoring program for freshman. • Active member in Denver Kappa League mentoring program • Varsity athlete in football • Varsity athlete in Track and Field Dennis is a productive, persistent outstanding young man who strives to better himself and is motivated to give back to his community. Dennis is ambitious about his goals and will use his education to gain success in anything he desires. Dennis has been accepted into several schools such as the University of Northern Arizona, University of New Mexico and Benedictine but Dennis hopes to attend Morehouse College and pursuing an engineering degree.

College: Metropolitan State University Denver Career Goal: Neonatal or NICU Nurse Accomplishments • Lettered in & Captain Ladies Basketball – 4 Year Varsity Player • Won 3 Basketball Championships • Played twice in 4A Basketball Championship Games • 4 Year Choir Member • Participated in Modeling Showcase • Part-Time Job

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Jasmine Mack

La’Ronn Smith

Jawai Williams

Attended: Manual High School

Attended: Widefield HS

College Preference: Howard University

College Preference: University of Colorado

Attending: Prairie View A & M University

Career Goal: Pediatric Surgeon

Major: Business Innovation

Major: Nursing

Achievements: • 2020 Valedictorian • Student Council Leader • Student Board of Education & School Representative • Former Junior Class Student Body President • Stars Mentor & Legacy List • Lettered in & Captain of: Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Cheer • Notable accomplishments: High School Musicals, Yearbook Staff & Writing Center

Minor: Aviation

Achievements: • Ms. Infinity Colorado • New York Fashion Week • Prom Squad Bridal Elegance Model • Performed at the African American • Youth Leadership Conference • 2019 LA Fashion Week • Victoria Henley Runway Show • 2018YES Ma’am Pageant Winner • 2013-14 Willhemina Model

Hobbies: Sports, Reading, Gaming, Puzzles. Church: Epworth United Methodist What do I want people to know about me? I am an introvert around people that I don’t know very well. But when I get to know someone then I am more of an extrovert.

Jasmine was most recently recognized as an outstanding Youth Leaders by the National Council of Negro Women.

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Student Features | Pg. 79

Kiya Grays

La’Renz Smith

Attended: Widefield HS

Attended: Manual High School

Attending: Denver School of Science and Technology GVR

College Preference: Xavier University of Louisiana

College Preference: Claflin University

Major: Business / Entrepreneurship

Career Goal: Family Attorney

Achievements: • Varsity Football • Varsity Track • Student Government, • Project Voyce

Achievements: • Lettered in & Captain Ladies Basketball • Lettered in & Captain Ladies Volleyball • Active in Community Service • Black Student Alliance • Church Volunteer • Part-Time Job

Pg. 80 |Student Features

Gene Sledge Attended: Vista Peak Academy College: University of Northern Colorado - Football Scholarship Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hobbies: Graphic Design, Spoken Word, Film, Photography Church: Epworth United Methodist

Achievements: • Omega Phi Psi Outstanding Young Man Award • Mechanical Engineering Pathway • Ambassador Leader • University of Northern Colorado Football Recruit • 3 Year High School Football Starter • All State Football Player • 3 Year All Conference Football Player • 3 Year All League Football Player • Iron Bison Award • 2 Year Offensive MVP • Top Football Back Award • Active Member of Kappa League

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Maia Hill

MarJayne’ Staples

Nathan Carver

Attended: Overland High School

Attended: Overland HS

Attended: Graduate of Overland High School

4 Year Honor Roll Student 3.8 GPA

Merit Roll

Honor Role

4 Year Honor Roll Student 3.8 GPA

Achievements: • Completed highest level of auto mechanics. • Four year starter of varsity golf. Named most valuable player his senior year. • Excelled is DECA business studies for 3yrs • Plans to go to the University of Northern Colorado to major in business and minor in auto mechanics. • He is a young minister at Odom Memorial COGIC. • He also loves to sing. • Most of all he loves the Lord and is a child of God.

College Preference: Prairie View A&M University Major: Nursing Achievements: • National Honors Society • 4 Year Varsity basketball and Lettered • 4 Year Track Athlete and Lettered • Hobbies: I love to • Working Out - Health and Wellness • Spend time with friends • Community Service • Active Member of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church Member as a Youth Leader

College Preference: North Carolina A&T Career Goals Owning her own Dance Company Achievements: • Active: in Community Services • Dance with Devine Dynasty Dance Team • School: Cheer team and Girls basketball team • Part time job

What do you want people to know about you? I am a kind spirit who is determined to reach her goals, and have a love for helping in the community

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Student Features | Pg. 81

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Educating Children Of Color Founded By Regina Walter Colorado Springs, CO

The mission of ECOC, Inc. is to dismantle the cradle to prison pipeline for children of color and children in poverty through education. Our programs include the Annual Summit, Leadership Academy, Diversity University, scholarship writing workshops, iInspire and free SAT prep classes. Our programs are designed to teach youth about higher education, life skills, career opportunities, and self-empowerment. They are designed to help professionals address their implicit biases and improve their ability to respond to the needs of a culturally diversity population. ECOC, Inc. is planning for the 14th Annual Educating Children of Color Summit, to be held on 1-16-2021. The theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Infinite

Hope With Deliberate Effortâ&#x20AC;? recognizes that we still have a long way to go to insure equity for all. More than 600 educators and approximately 800 middle and high school students registered for the 2020 Summit. At least $20,000 in scholarship and educational gifts will be awarded at the 2021 Summit. To date, we have awarded $199,000 in scholarships and educational gifts! During the 2020-2021 school year, ECOC will double the number of youth in the Leadership Academy and double the length of the program. We will work with the youth all school year and will assist the youth in completing a service-learning project that they design and execute. Sessions will include

constitutional rights and how to survive an encounter with law enforcement, HBCUs, college v. trade school, concurrent enrollment, financial aid, GRIT and perseverance, personality traits and how to work with difficult people. Diversity University is specifically designed to help individuals address their biases and leverage their power to address problems of disparate treatment of others. It has historically only been offered during the summer. However, the demand is so great that sessions will be offered this fall. More than 500 individuals signed up for the summer of 2020!

Annual Event

Educating Children Of Color Our Mission: To use education to dismantle the cradle-to-prison pipeline for children of color and children in poverty.

Pg. 82 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

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Dr. Theresa Y. Newsom

Special Education Teacher Colorado Springs District 11

Founder of the Black Educators Network Dr. Theresa Y. Newsom holds a M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction and a Ph.D. in Special Education with an emphasis in gifted education. She is a Gifted and Talented Teacher in D11 Colorado Springs Schools who has a dual emphasis on children of color and the development of leadership skills in identified gifted and high ability students. Dr. Newsom’s leadership includes serving as a Principal, Adjunct Professor, member of the National Association of Gifted Children’s Whole Gifted Child Task Force, as well as, a Curriculum Leader to name a few. She has presented at local, state and national conferences. Theresa’s exuberance, knowledge and ability to advance equity for all is infectious and evident in her community service that includes Founding the Black Educators’ Network to support educators and families of color and promoting literacy for all, the Helping Hands Ministry and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Furthermore, Theresa is the CEO of Children with Promise Educational Services, LLC, which develops student’s leadership, provides social-emotional parent discussion groups and personalized services. Dr. Newsom has received the Harriet Tubman Reach Back and Uplift award, Hats Off Salute to Women in Leadership award, the Colorado Academy of Educators for the Gifted, Talented, and Creative award and the College of Behavior Sciences and Education Honor Scholar award. Dr. Newsom said, “My greatest educational accomplishment is teaching America’s children who are born with promise, potential, and talent to respond with positive action that will influence generations yet to be born”. Dr. Newsom enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, dancing and spending time with family and friends.

Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Annual Event

The Literacy Festival BLACK EDUCATORS NETWORK Our Mission: To problem-solve issues related to minorities and education.

Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations | Pg. 83

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On January 16, 1993, the first African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) was held at the Hillside Community Center, Colorado Springs. It was sponsored by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, INC. â&#x20AC;&#x2039; he AAYLC was limited to young African T American males in grades 6 - 12 and was presented from a male minority point of view. The AAYLC was the first of its kind in Colorado Springs and the focus was on: social problems affecting black youth, the importance of an education along with various educational programs and initiatives and the examination of Black History. There were approximately 175 male students in attendance. This AAYLC was so successful and well received by the community that is was expanded the following year, 1994, to include females in grades 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12. At that time, Colorado College became the first major

partner of the Conference by providing both funding and its facilities. Colorado College, notably, has remained as a major partner since 1994. The AAYLC is now host to approximately 600 students of all ethnicities annually in March on the campus of Colorado College. Because of the educational development and community outreach focus, the AAYLC has grown in magnitude since its inception and serves as a program supported by corporate, civic, academic, religious, fraternal, social organizations and individuals in the community. It is totally organized and implemented by community volunteers. To date, the AAYLC has hosted over 13,000 students in the Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Denver area and has given over $140,000 in student scholarships. The AAYLC has a sustained and rich history that instills high standards and positive moral values in our youth.

Pg. 84 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

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Testimonial

Shantell Nix Executive Director

African American Youth Leadership Conference The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) continues to embark on an amazing journey to uphold our purpose of providing and supporting educational, personal and leadership development for youth. This year’s conference theme, 2020 VISION #SeeBeyondNow, is especially important to me. It is crucial for students to see past the here and now of today and focus on their vision of tomorrow. Personally, after over 15 years of involvement with the AAYLC; from being a parent bringing my own children, an educator accompanying students, a volunteer ushering students, to now have the privilege of being the Executive Director of the organization, I can honestly say we are in our greatest season and I am honored to be a part this legacy supporting the current and future youth leaders in the Pikes Peak Region.

Testimonial

Ashley McNeely

Zakarayah Scruggs

African American Youth Leadership Conference

Conference Volunteer

“The moment that you see all of the students you are suddenly hit with a realization of the importance of this event. There are students from all walks of life but they all have one thing in common; they want to learn. These students have made the choice to attend this conference because they want to grow and they want to succeed further than anyone can imagine. In one moment all of that hits you and it makes you proud to be part of such an amazing event. It also strengthens your resolve to fight for these young people.”

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Student Attendee

“My name is Zakaryah Scruggs, I am 17 years old and in my senior year of high school approaching my very last African American Youth Leadership Conference prior to leaving the state to attend college. This will be my third year. My favorite part about attending the AAYLC is the environment of black excellence that is created when intelligent young black men and women come together for the greater good of our community. Living in Colorado Springs, it is not very often that I see other people that look like me and share the same trials and tribulations that come with living in America. The most valuable thing that I’d say I've learned from AAYLC is that I shouldn't limit myself or my abilities to what other people expect of me. As an underclassman in high school, I didn't really know what I wanted to do. AAYLC taught me that I am greater than my expectations and that I am capable of what I set my mind to and accomplish. I speak on behalf of my ancestors by saying that Black IS power!

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Vanessa Little

Piano Instructor & Educator Colorado Springs, CO What role do you play in education, how long have you been in education? I played quite a few roles in education. I became an educator as a teen, teaching Sunday School. After working in a childcare center, I received my teaching license. I taught elementary education and was also a math coach. I obtained my masters in math then began teaching at the collegiate level. I taught on the east coast at George Mason University before returning to Colorado. Where I have taught at Colorado University and Colorado State University. I have taught piano since I was 19, which led me to start my first education-based business. Presently, I own two businesses, Miss Vanessa’s Piano Studio and Lil’ Miss Story Hour. I teach piano lessons and provide literacy themed entertainment (story times) for children’s birthday parties, play dates, and school assemblies. Formally speaking, I have been an educator for 17 years but informally I have been in the field for 30. What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? I had an amazing mentor who imparted wisdom to include: ~ Education will not always look same for you throughout your journey. ~ Be open to the possibilities that teaching will bring. You could be an educator on a such broader scope than you believe; if you are willing to leave your comfort zone. ~ Embrace education as a form of motherhood. ~ That my role in education would be an evolutionary one and take me down many different paths. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? Always have a back-plan. Realize that your education is going to benefit your future and will help you navigate society. Stay committed. Stay the course even if it does not follow the course of “formal education.” The path you choose is correct if it is genuine to you. Interview By Angelique Scott Pg. 86 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

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Shanae Adams

Sex Education

What role do you see yourself playing in education as a sexuality professional? So as a sexuality professional I provide comprehensive sex positive sexuality education in my community, and that looks like the lectures that I do in community resource centers, I’ve taught at universities, I’ve spoken at conferences. I teach more or less anywhere someone will let me come teach. And how long have you been in this role as a sexuality educator? Adams: I have been in sexuality education for about 10 years now. I joined a group when I was an undergrad called S.H.A.P.E. that stands for Sexual Health Advocate Peer Educators. I joined it because I was a transfer student trying to make friends and needed something to do. They taught us, you know, comprehensive human sexuality, how to present, how to create conferences, they taught us classroom management and I kind of fell in love and every job I’ve had since then has been related to sexuality in some way. So why do you think education is important? And specifically education around sexuality. For sure, so the United States has a very “don’t ask, don’t tell”, keep it under the rug relationship with sexuality. But we are also plagued with things like rape culture and double standards within sexuality. And when we have these conversations, when we approach sex and sexuality in a comprehensive, positive, inclusive way, we actually shift the narrative of our society and we shift the narrative of our culture. Comprehensive sex-ed helps to deter things like rape culture. It helps to break down the patriarchy and actually liberate all peoples as a whole. It makes society and community safer for all of the people that inhabit it when we come from the perspective that everybody has experiences, everyone’s experiences are unique and valid. That you should believe people’s experiences because there’s no way you’re going to know my experience, because you’re not me. Interview By N’dea Carter Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations | Pg. 87

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Joyelle Naomi

Executive Director Black Homeschooling Sustainability Initiative Denver, CO What is your name, what role do you play in education, how long have you been in education? Joyelle Naomi is a Home Educator. Joyelle also holds the title of Founder and CEO of the Black Home-Schooling Sustainability Initiative and Founder and CEO of Denver Independent School (DIS). Joyelle has been home schooling her own kids for seven years. Why do you think education is important? First and foremost, it is important to be self-educated [being educated about who we are as individuals]. Education is learning about others and the world around us, which enables us to develop our own views about the world. It also helps us establish our purpose and how we want to move throughout the world. Self-education and learning about others lead to participation in the world in a way that is rooted and grounded in purpose. What do you love most about your role in education? I am grateful for being able to have a vision and being able to implement that vision. My vision is deeply rooted in wanting to come alongside others to help add to the education sector, especially the black community. I am passionate about adding voice to the conversation around school choice. We (as a black community) typically frame school choice in terms of charter, private, and public schools. We rarely think about the

Pg. 88 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

possibility of home educating our children and the immense amount of benefits that comes with it, specifically for black children. I love being able to be in this position and having others who believe in my vision while pouring in resources and knowledge. I love being able to implement change! What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector? Include those who you are serving in the decision-making process. It is important to not be in the position where you believe you know what is best for others, instead truly form a community. Forming the community is more than being a leader, it is also being able to learn. It is still important to allow those who you are serving a true voice! It is important to include them in process instead of speaking on their behalf. What advice would you give the younger generation about their education? You have permission for education to be individualized. There is power in your voice and it is important to determine what you want to learn. Let go of the quote-unquote “should’s” around what education is and have the courage to explore all of your questions and curiosities. Understand that learning happens any and everywhere. Interview By Melvin Whipple

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Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations | Pg. 89

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Chandra Whitfield Parents With Purspose

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Getting Involved In Parent Teacher Organizations Back in the day, PTA meetings were a big deal at my elementary school in a closeknit, suburban, solidly middle class allBlack community in my hometown of New Orleans. It would be standing-room only inside the cafeteria packed with parents – weary from the day and still dressed in their work attire – who sat alongside their fidgety kids, listening intently to the evening agenda; usually carried out on a rickety PA system by the principal, parent-leaders and a diverse mix of staffers. We’d always cringe when feedback from the mics screeched through our ears throughout those evening gatherings. Ah, those were the good ol’ days. At that young age I could not fully understand everything happening, but I remember loving the electric energy in the room. Having so many people gathered together to discuss ways to help us kids felt important and purposeful. It made me feel, special, valuable and well, loved. Fast forward to 2016 and I’m a parent of two in Colorado. My oldest child started ECE (Early Childhood Education) at Highline Academy, a charter school in Far Northeast Denver. As soon as notice of the first parent/ teacher organization meeting of the year was advertised in the campus newsletter, I made it a priority to attend. I rushed over that day after school, worried that if I was tardy I might not get a seat. Let’s just say once I arrived, it was clear that was not going to be an issue. What I found was just under a dozen people: two staffers, a teacher or two and the rest parents, sprinkled around a few tables in a small classroom. I was shocked. I knew it was a new school, only two years old at the time, but with a student body of more than 400, the attendance seemed concerningly low. Surely, it’s because this is the first meeting of the year, right? Perhaps many parents just missed the newsletter announcement. This. Can’t. Be. It. It was. I continued to attend those meetings, well most of them, that school year and the

attendance numbers fluctuated somewhat, but never dramatically. I was concerned, but I just sat back quietly taking everything in: who was leading, what types of events and initiatives were being planned, who makes the decisions, what were the priorities, what were the challenges and weaknesses? Basically, just observing the process. By the following fall, I knew in my heart that it was time for me to answer the call and get involved. Thankfully, a handful of the regulars, newbies like me, all moms, who’d also been at most of those same meetings, did the same too. Our small, but clearly committed crew, was taking shape. And we came in as they say, guns-a-blazin’ that year, ready to take over the reins of the group known as PWP, Parents With Purpose. And boy, did we work hard to live up to our name. The journey began brick-by-brick and from the ground up: we distributed an anonymous parent feedback survey, selected officers, wrote a mission statement, secured new teacher liaisons, dramatically beefed up fundraising efforts and expanded – and in my view, elevated – every event that had been on the school’s annual calendar. We also worked tirelessly to create opportunities to connect our student body, mostly brown and Black kids, with existing programing and resources in the Green Valley Ranch and Montbello communities. Later on came other important accomplishments; creating a logo, improving our communications and advertisements efforts to parents, building a database of parent-volunteers and the school graciously assigned us an administrative liaison. We’ve even added live video streaming, dinner and complimentary childcare to our monthly meetings now held later on weekday evenings to better accommodate more working parents. Last February, just before the pandemic rocked all of our worlds, we pulled off one of our biggest feats ever – a huge Mardi Gras-themed party and silent auction with live music and tons of food and fun that helped us land a segment on 9 News in Denver!

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It’s been one heck of a ride, one filled with wins, losses, frustrations, excitement, fun and more milestones than we can count. Our core group has bonded in the process and we are proud of what we’ve accomplished. Attendance at our monthly meetings, has definitely improved, but even with all of that effort, the sad reality is that most of the work is and continues to be carried out by the same small rotating group of parents, almost exclusively all moms. I can’t help but wonder how much more that could be achieved if more parents felt the same sense of responsibility as we regulars do. What if more parents stopped making excuses and decided to step up and help out? And if you’re thinking we’re a bunch of privileged, bored, stay-at-home parents with nothing better to do, think again. Our team is beyond busy; juggling our commitments as parent-leaders with demanding full time jobs, pregnancy (one just had twins), graduate school and as primary caregivers to young children. So, when I hear others say they’re “too busy” to help, I laugh. As this most unusual of school years kicks off, I know we’re all extra overwhelmed, stressed out and saddled with the uncertainty that this pandemic continues to impose. The reality is that our schools, and more importantly the kids who attend them, need our help more than ever too. Are you willing to answer the call to help? I beg you to consider making “that change” that Michael Jackson once sang about in one of his signature hits. Simply put: during these crazy times, ask what your child’s school can do for you, yes, but also what you can do to help your child’s school too. My advice: start by committing to attending parent/teacher organization meetings, which fortunately will most likely be virtual for quite some time. Find out what’s on the agenda and within a reasonable amount of time, reach out to those in charge and simply ask: “what can I do to help?”

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Janiece Mackey

Co-founder and Executive Director YAASPA Young Aspiring Americans for Social and Political Activism

I do what I do because I was experiencing racial battle fatigue in the nonprofit sector while working in predominantly white nonprofit spaces. I knew that the racialized challenges I was navigating were not just my own experiences, but also the experiences of fellow Black colleagues and youth. With this in mind, I decided to create Young Aspiring Americans for Social and Political Activism (YAASPA) and pursue advanced degrees to reclaim and re-imagine academic, career and civic spaces that would be humanizing for Black, Indigenous People of color with a focus on youth.

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Ilasiea Gray

Children’s Theatre Director Denver, CO What role exactly do you play in education? I’m an art educator, specifically performing arts. Teaching artistry is when you’re an actual professional in your field and then you teach your craft. I’ve been teaching for about 10 years now. I teach in so many different capacities, including directing theater for children. I get the opportunity to create original work with students, which is very rewarding. I coach a ton of kids who work in professional theater, the commercial industry and television. Why do you think that art education is important? Firstly, I believe that knowledge is power. In these times, it is important to educate yourself on current events and history, especially as a person of color. Everyone should constantly be trying to evolve and educate their mind. In terms of art education, I think it’s such an outlet, and plays an important role in childhood development. I work with kids ages K-12th Grade and I assist them in developing their creativity, self-expression, morale and teamwork. These are all life skills that will benefit them tremendously in the long run. I had the pleasure of being a part of an

Arts Camp that was meant to empower young black girls last summer. I remember stepping into the room and asking the girls, “What do you want to explore?” They all got excited, and said they wanted to make talk about Blackness, Women’s history, and Societal Standards. It was amazing to see because they might not have the opportunity to explore those subjects in other settings, or they wouldn’t have felt comfortable. The world needs art to explore those more vulnerable subjects.

It’s also great to impact the children in the same way. I made history in Colorado by playing the role of Belle in Sleeping Beauty as a black actress at Denver Children’s Theater. Not only did the kids get to see an interratial couple on stage--being that the prince was still white--but I got to show them that princesses come in all sizes and colors! It’s beautiful to give them a different outlook on life.

What do you love most about your role as an acting coach, teacher, and as an actress?

Being an educator has taught me to follow my own path, and that’s what I want to impart with-- that everything is possible. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do.

That’s a great question. I love making an impact on others, through my teaching, and my performing as well. There is a show we have been performing virtually called Black with a Capital B that is about police brutality. We’ve been able to tour to so many different organizations, including libraries and churches, in front of so many different types of people. We’ve even been able to host a black and white discussion panel after the show. To be a part expanding people’s worldview because of the art that they are viewing creates an indescribable feeling of accomplishment and gratitude.

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What advice do you have for future generations?

As a black actress in this industry, I did not want to be labeled or put into a box. I didn’t even think they’d consider me for Sleeping Beauty when I auditioned, and it turned out to be amazing for myself and the community. Do not limit yourself. Without me even realizing, I had limited the thought that I could even play the role of Belle in Sleeping Beauty! Written By Talisa Caldwell

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Tina Adams Substitute Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

Latricia Ferris Financial Literacy Teacher Denver, CO

I teach financial literacy/entrepreneurship as well as mentor to students around Denver metro area. I do this because I grew up in the Denver 5 Points neighborhood and was surrounded by gangs, drug and violence. I almost fell victim to the streets a few times. When I had children of my own as a teen mom I wanted to make a difference, but not only with my kids. I decided to launch my business and teach our youth how to navigate through lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges and use those challenges as tools to achieve greatness. Believe & Imagine however I am partnered with Morey middle school as well as Highline Academy charter schools. I also work with Junior Achievement and FBLA students across the state., I work for my own organization called Dream, My expertise is in finance and business consulting. I have worked in the finance world over 6 years and have been a business consultant of 15.

I have worked in the education field for over 15 years. I have taught high school, preschool, held an assistant director position at a large pre-school and now, I am a substitute teacher (by day) while I work on my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. I am also developing some online courses with PMG Global Ministries for adult learners.

Talented Author Tina Adams is also an author, writer and editor. Her passion for writing began when she was a young girl writing for her high school newspaper. Since then she has authored and co-authored 3 books to include her best-seller Out of Darkness. Her next project Woman at The Well: Laugh, Love and God will be released soon. Tell us how you got started writing I write because I have always loved writing and sharing the message that God would have me to give through written word. After going through a number of life challenges, I decided to write a book that also doubles as a journal to help others process and overcome difficult moments in their own journey. Whats One piece of advice you would give your younger self? To believe in what you are writing. If you can reach just one person with your work, then you have reason to believe that you have reached a million!

Darolyn Stewart Social Emotional Generalist Colorado Springs, CO

I am blessed to work with high school youth, assisting them with their social emotional needs along their school journey. I connect students with community resources/ referrals, develop safety plans with students and their families, set and track personal goals with students while collaborating with local caseworkers, police, probation, health providers, and family members to best serve student needs. I do the work that I do, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not only my passion but my calling. Since I was a child, I grew up knowing I wanted to be a teacher, counselor or social worker and in many ways, my job allows me to do a bit of each career path. Focusing on the social emotional needs of students and teaching them adaptive coping skills is a needed area of support that all schools should have. Schools are one of the biggest supports for youth and I have chosen to work with you for the rest of my life. Often they just need to be heard and guiding in the right direction, which must included multiples routes and provide autonomy to youth. Our schools mission is to develop productive members of society and I am thrilled to help with that mission to the best of my ability.

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Lawrence Wagner

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Chief Executive Officer Sparks Mindset Colorado Springs, CO

Lawrence has over ten years of project management experience. An Army veteran, Lawrence brings a wide array of experiences in cybersecurity, defense, diversity and inclusion training, and volunteerism. Lawrence was one of the founders of the 1 Million Cups networking group in Colorado Springs and the founder of Connect! Colorado Springs. At Sparks Mindset, our vision is to help break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness in underrepresented communities. Our mission is to spark opportunity by increasing access to transformative technology careers Why do you do what you do? When I was growing up, I never felt like I fit in. Then I got saved at my church, and I felt I had finally found a community that believed in me. As I got older and started doing more things, I realized I was being given opportunities that other people, especially in the black community, were not being given. People with my background were ending up in jail. My brother spent time in jail. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not there now, but it damaged him. Other people end up killing or getting killed. They don't have hope for a better future. I understand what that hopelessness looks like. Luckily, I was able to join the military. There I received years of counseling and gained the confidence to move from hopeless to hopeful. If I had that help when I was 15/16, it would have made a big difference in my life. I want to help kids have the opportunities I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have. I want to prepare them to survive and thrive in a world that will try to keep them down. I believe in what STEM offers because a lot of people in Black communities don't have access to adequate Virtual Reality, cybersecurity or coding resources. Only three percent of African-Americans graduate high school with this type of education, and only three percent of that three percent actually graduate from college. I want to help those numbers grow. I want to break that cycle one kid at a time and inspire those kids to help others when their time comes. Interview By Brandon Bornes Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

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Jessica Newsome Administrator Denver, CO

When thinking about what I do and why, my mind goes directly to my promise to educate all families from the youngest to the oldest. Why? I do so because by being available for the whole family, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;m better able to bridge the gap between home and school. I began teaching on the preschool level, followed by entering into the world of special education, and now stepping into administration all for the simple fact that (I believe) God knows that our child, and families, are yearning to see that individuals in our school systems (that look like them) care and will continuously push for the whole family to succeed. I know what my struggles where through primary, secondary, undergrad, grad school, etc., and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ve committed both my ministerial and secular teaching careers to uplifting families. Pg. 96 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

Asia Lyons

CEO and Lead Consultant Lyons Educational Consulting Aurora, CO Program and curriculum design and job-embedded coaching, Program equity auditing I support organizations in the design of culturally responsive programs and curriculum. I do this because being a participant in programming where a person has a sense of belonging is critical for their self-actualization. I want participants to feel cared for, their lived experiences seen and their voices heard through the programs and curriculum I co-create with organizations.

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Lisa Villanueva

Founder and Director EthnicCity and Lategro Colorado Springs, CO

Empower children to change the world and provide parents the tools to assist them. I am the Founder and Director of EthnicCity and Lategro. Both EthnicCity and LaTegro are grassroots Urban Arts and Education Movements existing to educate and eradicate any fallacies created to disenfranchise the urban youth and young adults place in society. I am an Urban Eclectic Artist that has a passion for developing the Urban Youth. I am a certified teacher and entrepreneur. When I am not teaching art at Bemis School of Art/Fine Arts Center, I am empowering youth and disenfranchised communities with the tools of community pride and self sufficiency. I have had much experience in the non-profit sector and my expertise lie in: Workshop Development and Facilitating Youth advocacy and empowerment Dance and Theater Slam Poetry Step Master Parent Empowerment Grant Development and Teaching You can also find my art on Etsy. com/VisionistaV I plan to change the world one child at a time!

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Janei Maynard

Executive Director 5th Element Center for Dance Aurora, CO I am passionate about using the arts and social emotional learning to create equity in education for low-income students and Black & Brown students. As the founding Executive Director of 5th Element Center for Dance, I lead a nonprofit dance studio that provides dance, academic, and social emotional resources to youth in Aurora with no cost barrier. 5th Element is named after the fifth element of hip hop, Knowledge, and centers hip hop styles and pedagogy as a culturally responsive approach to education. Currently in the process of startup, the organization strives to foster personal & artistic development for youth to grow into compassionate, knowledgeable, and expressive artists who are connected to themselves & their communities, because we envision a society in which the waves of culture and the arts have uplifted the expression of the most historically silenced people. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity with Honors and a concentration in Identity, Diversity, and Aesthetics, as well as a Master of Arts degree in Communication with a concentration in Media Studies. Both degrees were earned from Stanford University, where I committed my academic work to 1) exploring how hip hop is a unique medium through which low-income, youth of color, specifically Black girls, can tell their stories and connect with themselves, their experiences, and their communities and 2) identifying the impact of mass media, particularly its portrayal of hip hop music and musicians, on low-income youth of colorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self-perception.

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Kinyata Jackson

Founder Remembrance Wellness and Yoga Black Baby Collective Denver, CO Remembrance Wellness and Yoga is a traveling yoga studio dedicated to creating spaces of healing in all communities. Through our Remembrance Youth program we are able to facilitate yoga, dance and mindfulness workshops and classes to students in traditionally under-resourced communities as well as the staff, family and communities they are a part of. Remembrance Wellness and Yoga has been serving youth in this capacity grades K-12 since 2017. Our semester long, summer camps partnerships, one-time events and workshops deliver trauma informed, youth centered, culturally relevant and representative yoga and wellness programs in a variety of educational and learning spaces. We partner with local schools directly, school districts, sports teams, youth facing organizations, and community-based programs when sharing the healing and character building benefits of yoga. The Black Baby Collective is a recently formed organization designed to support Black families throughout the duration of conception through high school and beyond. BBC provides doula and other pre/postnatal services, homeschool support, as well as connections to therapists and more. The BBC is currently focused on supporting Black families new to homeschooling with curriculum development, scheduling, enrichment options, and pod formation. Kinyata Jackson is the founder of both Remembrance Wellness & Yoga LLC as well as The Black Baby Collective. Mrs.Jackson has dedicated her life to serving, empowering and advocating for youth and their families. She brings over a decade of formal education and even more time spent leading children in informal learning environments including mentorships programs, coaching and museum gallery coordination. Kinyata has taught in public, private and charter based schools.

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Andrea C. Scott A.B.C. Educational Services Aurora, CO

Our mission is to provide support for educational and transitional services through teaching, training, and consultation.

Kathleen Foster Guest Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

I am a second generation educator. Both of my parents were educators, as were many other black professionals in my family‘s circle of influence. The influence and impact my parents had on me, other family members, and youth was powerful. As I began considering a career, I realized that teachers touch and influence the lives of almost every person in America. I have been teaching since 1979 and still love helping mold and guide the mind and lives of youth.

Charmas B. Lee Track & Field Coach Colorado Springs, CO

I build champions . Our science based training approach fuses today’s latest in sport-science with the human spirit, resulting in unrivaled success. We develop highly disciplined student athletes, with highly disciplined behaviors, followed by highly disciplined actions. Why? In order to be successful in sport and in life, student athletes must possess a powerful belief in their self-efficacy – their ability to perform. What they believe becomes the foundation of all they will ever achieve. Our athlete‘s possess a sincere appreciation for discipline and believe by doing the properly designed work with focus and concentration each performance will grow dramatically better and eventually reach the highest levels, and ultimately achieve great performance!

Eleise ClarkGunnells Historical researcher Youth Programs Denver, CO

Producer of the Jane Taylor Re-enactor Guild a part of the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center. Facilitator of Little Wranglers Program for youth. Children learn to ride horses. Youth learn about agriculture. Study history of Americans of African Descent, historical docent at Black American West Museum &amp; Heritage Center.

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Chuck Acker

Lead Classroom Educator Fiends First Denver, CO We’ve been active in the community for the last 25 years. We partner with different schools/ districts by supplementing the curriculum. Our focus is enriching the lives of young people in areas that really need it. We educate and mentor teens, by helping them make healthy life choices and develop healthy relationships. Our flagship program is the STARS program which stands for: STUDENTS TEACHING ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS and SUCCESS. This is a peer-to-peer mentoring program where high school upper classmen mentor either younger high school students, or middle schoolers. There’s very few peer-to-peer mentoring programs in the country. We‘re one of the premier programs and we’re based out of Colorado! We also have partnerships in different cities like Detroit and New Mexico. My main program that I do is our middle school program; Project AIM (Adult Identity Mentoring). We serve highrisk schools in Colorado Springs, Denver as well as Pueblo. FRIENDS FIRST is excited about expanding throughout Colorado and other parts of the country. I have worked in different aspects of the education sector since 2005. What advice would you give to younger generation about their education? The best advice I would give young people is: “Don’t allow your circumstances or the people that are directly around you to be the dominant influence in your future. You are the determining factor in the amount or type of education that you‘re going after.”

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Roosevelt Cooper Basketball Coach Fort Carson High School Fountain, CO

Why do you think coaching is important? Coaches are leaders whether they want to take that position or not. Seventyfive percent of school kids participates in athletics. Kids hold coaches in the highest regard. This was the same for coaches, even when I was going to school, were held in a higher regard, especially for black and brown kids. When they may not have that type of home life where they have a father or mother. Also, I think, coaches that keep things straight with kids or not sugar coat things, the kids will flock to those type of coaches. I know that they filled a void in my life that I did not have with my dad. Coaches fill voids that are important in kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives. What advice would you give the younger generation about their years playing sports? Have multiple things you want to do with your life. Not to put all your eggs in a basket. Make sure you have a backup plan.

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Janet Renee Damon Literacy Specialist Denver Public Schools

Janet Rene Damon, Ed.S is a literacy engagement activist who has worked to empower families and support their access to libraries and collections that feature positive representation of diverse children and families. She is an educator with over twenty years of experience working with students and families as a librarian and literacy consultant. Janet has taught U.S. History, Ethnic Studies, Literacy Intervention and Information Literacy with students K-12 and is currently the Library Services Specialist for the Denver Public Schools. An experienced facilitator, she helps students, families, and community members build reading habits at home. increasing access to books and resources that support a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self-esteem, confidence, self-concept, and appreciation of their unique history and culture. She is the founder of Afros and Books, a collective of librarians of color & LGBTQ+ staff who promote self-liberation through libraries. Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations | Pg. 101

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Valerie Thomas Homeschool Parent Colorado Spring, CO

Why did you get into homeschooling? I was pregnant with my first child. My husband and I always talked about schooling and how we wanted to raise our kids. We both just had a feeling we should home school. We didn't understand why because neither one of us came from home school families, but ultimately we decided that home school is what God wanted us to do. How did you get into it? I started researching as much as I could. It wasn't as scary in the beginning because I started when my son was only two. I just started doing things at home. In the beginning, I still worked full time as a military nurse, we would work in about 1-2

hours a day whenever I would see him. I had a video system in my car so we would even work in the car. I would always put on educational videos. I started with the alphabet and counting videos, and by the time he was three, he knew his alphabet and could recognize colors and everything. I did a lot of video work with him. I also used flash cards and Hooked on Phonics. When it was time for kindergarten, my kids were already reading and knew how to write. They even knew how to do simple addition, but then it started to get scary because my oldest was like, “okay, we’re doing home school for real.” In the beginning, I just wanted to prepare them to be good at school. Nw I have to start taking my role as their teacher seriously. At that time, I had three young kids, 5 and below. It was a lot, so I decided to put

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them in a traditional school. While they were in school, they excelled. They were at the top of their classes. That’s when I realized I could do it. I could home school my kids. What tips would you pass on to people who are new to homeschooling? If you feel like you're doing everything wrong, that's normal. You're transitioning from a mindset of what school is to what school is going to be for your family. You’re going to have to change the way you look at the school. Your home is your classroom. The world is your classroom. From cooking and cleaning to playing and field trips, your kids are always learning. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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Terrell Brown Hillside Connection Colorado Springs, CO

Leveraging the game of basketball to create pathways to opportunity for kids in Southern Colorado Springs. Hillside Connection is a 501(c)(3) public charity designed to â&#x20AC;&#x153;leverage the game of basketball to create pathways to opportunity for kids in Southern Colorado Springsâ&#x20AC;?. Using sports as its primary medium, Hillside Connection brings together youth throughout the Pikes Peak Region to play basketball, develop resiliency and leadership skills, while working as a team. Hillside Connection was founded by Terrell Brown in March 2017 as a way to give back to the Southeast Colorado Springs community. From 1999 to 2008, his father Nathan Brown served as a youth basketball coach/mentor for at-risk youth in the Hillside Neighborhood. Growing up, the Hillside Community Center and the game of basketball saved his son, Terrell, from falling victim to the environment in which he grew up. After overcoming several obstacles both athletically and personally, Terrell became determined to use sports as a medium to empower youth in Southern Colorado Springs. The organizations five-tiered approach towards youth development includes: basketball clinics, enrichment activities, community engagement, competitive leagues and academic/family support services. To date, all programming is provided FREE of charge and runs on volunteer power! #HILLSIDESTRONG

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Santiagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s

Boxing Club Colorado Springs, CO Jose Santiago is the founder of Santiago's Boxing Club (SBC). Santiago's Boxing Club was established in January 2016. SBC is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit organization dedicated to the community. It provides a supportive environment for male and female athletes of all ages who are interested in pursuing competitive or non-competitive boxing training. The club's friendly atmosphere allows our members to foster discipline, increase athleticism, encourage health living and build a sense of community. We believe that any goal can be achieved through perseverance, determination and hard work. Our trained coaches provide a group regimen and one on one training that facilitates the development of sportsmanship, focus and comradeship. Santiagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boxing Club prides itself on creating Champions in the Ring and in Life. With our strenuous and intense workouts and training regiments, we will challenge you daily to give 200% towards whatever your goals are. From self-defense to weight loss to competition, SBC719 has a place for you!

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Kenneth Crowley

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Youth Mentor The Crowley Foundation

Can you explain a little bit about your program? We're a College Prep program. We focus much of our time and energy on mentoring young men. Boys to Men is our central entity right now. In it, there is Leadership Development, Emotional Learning, Career Exploration, and our summer program. We provide some local university scholarships, but we're also starting to push and promote trade schools that support plumbing, solar, machine shop, welding, trades (to name a few). Through relationship-building with these young men, we can define what the needs are. Can you talk about the value of relationships and mentorship when it comes to impacting the youth? Many people say they want to help, but they can’t make time to help. To do this type of work, you must be passionate about the need and the people that you serve. You have to be an authentic and selfless individual. You have to make sure that your morals and your values are in the right place. This job takes heart! It's not something you do for money. It’s about the people you serve. What is the core value of your organization? Our first core value is family. This separates us from other organizations. Young people gravitate towards it because they see the passion, and they love it. You must be authentic about what you do to build with students nowadays; they see right through you. They hold you accountable to what you say you’ll do, and be where you say you’ll be. Anything exciting coming up for your organization? There's always room for growth and other opportunities, and I think you know the key to that is to make sure that you keep an ear to the street and a connection to the young people. I'm excited about the relationships that we have. Much programming has begun due to new needs, concepts, and ideas that arise. Next comes the research so that we can make these programs successful.

KENNETH CROWLEY CROWLEYCOLLEGEPREP.COM (720) 935-6465

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Elisha Stewart Early Education Congenial Consulting Colorado Springs, CO

My name is Elisha Stewart, and I am the owner of Congenial Consulting. I am a native of Colorado and have been an Early Education professional for over 13 years. I started my journey as the Director of a large preschool center and then as an Infant/Toddler Supervisor serving Colorado. My experience in this field enabled me to see the need for high quality training for Early Education professionals and in 2018, I decided to earn Training and Coaching Credentials from the state of Colorado to help meet that need. After earning those credentials, I started Congenial Consulting. Congenial Consulting is a minority owned small business dedicated to the educational success of children in the early years of development. Our mission is to positively impact childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early learning experiences by providing research-based classroom strategies through relevant training for Early Education professionals. To learn more about our vision, please visit congenialconsutling.com.

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Stephen Brackett Founder Youth On Record Denver, CO

Can you share what your youth record is about? We are an organization that seeks to address inequality and lack of access to resources and personal power by using music as a content delivery method for liberation. We take our mission seriously. We see that the young people we serve, particularly black and brown children, historically do not have the same access to resources. Many are unable even to imagine a world in which they can set their stars and determine who they want to be. We use music as our primary channel to address that inequality because that’s where young people are. Young people are engaged in music; they’re either making it or consuming it. That’s why we collaborate with them through the music medium.

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How did your organization get started? Youth On Record became what it is through a very long process. Good ideas require many hands to make it tangible and effective. We started a band called Flobots, of which I am a member. We were creating our platform as local musicians, and we decided that it wasn’t enough to just talk about social justice. We felt like we should do something more to create a pathway. We had this desire early on before we became a national band. We created our own nonprofit, and out of that came the foundation for Youth On Record. What are you currently excited about? Well, the main thing that I think everybody who’s on staff is excited about is our students because they are brilliant. They are hungry, and they are talented. What’s also exciting is the staff itself. It’s an amazing group of incredible artists. Almost everyone on our team is a musician, that’s who we attract. Our staff is probably the most diverse in Colorado. When you’re in alignment with your community, and you’re really reaching out, then people from the community will come in and join you. I like being able to walk up in this place and know that we’re doing something right. Interview By Brandon Bornes Read full articles at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Educate

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History Education Through Art What do you do? The core of what I do is create artwork about women in history, and I use that artwork as an educational tool. My work enables me to go into schools and teach students. I try to make the sessions as informal as possible about women in history, the time frames in which they lived, why we must look backward, and I try to encourage them to seek diversity. I also urge them to do research projects of their own, which they can then turn into an art project. I’ve noticed for myself that having to find a way to describe an image, solidifies information about the image more. Every product that I create is educational in some way, shape, or form from the original paintings, which are mixed media and watercolor, all the way to the trading cards and coloring books. I do not create art for art’s sake. I create art for education. How long did it take before you progressed from just being creative to making creativity a business? I’ve always been creative. I announced when I was seven years old that I was going to be an artist when I grew up. I was in the military, and my mom used to send my sketchbook to boot camp like it was that serious. So I’ve always known in some way that I would use my art to make money. I moved out to Denver to attend art school. I went to the Art Institute of Colorado, and I studied animation. When you go to art school, they try to push you into jobs. They were trying to usher me into the film industry and the video game industry, but I didn’t feel like either of those were the realms for me. I’ve always been more interested in classical art and showings of traditional paintings. I got into freelance graphic design, designing logos, and that kind of thing. But I got to a point where I was creating portraitures, kids’ paintings, and the like. People loved them. I’ve always been a bit of

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an information junkie. I’ve always loved watching documentaries and listening to podcasts and reading books about all kinds of different topics. So I came up with the idea of showcasing women in history. It was the perfect marriage of my creative aspects, as well as my intellectual perspective. What are some of your core values? I believe that the job of an artist is to either record culture, create culture or both. If you look at ancient formations, it shows you what people were doing and thinking at the time. At the same time, you’ve got things like propaganda, media, and film poetry that changes people’s mind because it gives them the ability to dream. A vast majority of our scientific advances came from the works of Science Fiction. Writing is a testament to our ability to change the culture as well. What advice would you give your younger self ? I would tell my younger self to pay more attention to what’s going on outside and simultaneously be more faithful to what’s happening inside. I had a lot of insecurities growing up, and even recently just trying to make it as an artist. Historically, the narrative has been that artists are “starving,” that you can’t make money off this, that you’re going to Ramen Noodles for the rest of your life, or that you’re going to get stuck being a teacher. I think that narrative is entirely false and is being fed by the fact that we don’t teach businesses in grade or trade schools. So, I would tell my younger self to pay attention to how other people are successfully doing things and don’t listen to the naysayers. I’m not the first person to make money with my artwork, and I won’t be the last. Yes, it would have been wonderful if it didn’t take me so long to figure it out. But I learned everything I was supposed to, exactly when I was supposed to. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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Adri Smith Afro Triangle

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ShineNation.org

Victoria Lipscomb Founder of Shine Nation Colorado Springs, CO

We are a non-profit that provides life changing, character building opportunities for under served youth in our community, through participation in the arts. Why did you start shine nation? My mother and grandmother raised my siblings and I. They worked hard to make sure we understood that our life didn't end at the end of our block. They worked even harder to make sure we had every opportunity they thought might be good for us. We want to do the same for the kids in our community. We both grew up in the Harrison School District, and when it came time to give back, we decided that we wanted to go back to where we started. We were excited about creating opportunities in the community we came from. We started working with Fox Middle School and it was great. So we decided to create an after-school program. We decided to offer musical theater because it encompasses so many different artistic avenues from the visual arts to audio tech to acting, singing and dancing. We work with an average of 50 youth per production and have had a lot of success in inspiring the youth to be creative and express their creative sides. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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Shine Nation Student Testimonials

Daijah Lovett

Nemiah Thompson

Anime Moussa

I like how Shine Nation lets me be by myself and express how I feel about something and they take it into consideration. For example, when I am playing the character I was placed as, they let me have my own twist towards what I believe the character should act like or sound like. While participating I have learned not to fear what others might think and to step outside the box. They have taught me to never give up on the dreams that I have and what I want to be, or how I think I will turn out. Shine Nation has helped me be successful by building my confidence and making sure that I do well in school in order to

Shine Nation is a really fun community that you can easily make friends in, and they are really helpful when you need them. Shine Nation helps a lot and takes a big role in our musicals that we do annually. Ms. Victoria always pushes us to our limits, when it comes to singing for our musicals. She will do whatever it takes in order for us to succeed and sound good singing. Also, she is just a great person in general. Ms. Alana is a really great person, and always gives us pointers on things that we wouldn't have been able to do without her help. Everyone is just very helpful and Shine Nation is a great community. I'm so glad to be a team with Shine Nation. Last year I wasn't sure if I wanted to be apart of the musical we did, but with the help of Shine Nation I realized how fun it would be to do. This year I got a lead role, The Beast, in our musical Beauty and the Beast Jr. I know they don't judge when it comes to who gets what, and that is one of my favorite things about them. Overall my experience with Shine Nation is amazing.

I like Shine Nation because it makes me feel good and makes me want to sing and dance. I feel good because it helps me with my anger issues. When I’m mad at something, Shine Nation helps me relax by dancing and singing and having fun with my friends. They also make sure that I’m healthy, and they check in with me if something is wrong. They want me to be there. The teachers of Shine Nation helped me learn to be a better performer and I feel more confident in school, too. Everyone should join Shine Nation because it’s a great place to be.

participant.

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cornerstonemovement.org

Nicolas Crutcher

Founder of Crutcher Cornerstone Community Development Corporation Colorado Springs, CO Founder and CEO of Crutcher Cornerstone Community Development Corporation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Nicholas was jumped into his father’s gang at an early age and became a product of the streets.

lives of over 25,000 youth equipping them with leadership skills to empower them to be productive citizens.

Cornerstone Movement is a trade name that encompasses many different programs, initiatives, and partnerships in multiple communities under Crutcher Cornerstone Community Development Corporation. Nicholas is a civil rights activist and a minister at New Direction Baptist Church in Colorado Springs, CO.

At the age of 15, Nicholas knew he had to escape the gang and street environment. Two key mentors, Pastor Thurston Hunt and Rev. Leon Gatlin gave him the chance to escape. Nicholas had studied history and the teachings of masters such as Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcom X. The TV mini series “Roots” also had an influence. In the summer of 1996, Nicholas was given the chance to teach the youth during a summer camp held at Grace Missionary Baptist Church. This was the start of the “Movement” which later became Cornerstone Movement.

Many graduates have gone on to become law-enforcement personnel, teachers, politicians, professional athletes, college graduates and great parents. Cornerstone has also launched a program in Ghana. Out of these experiences the MOVEMENT was born.

Early life that formed the mindset for Cornerstone Nicholas was born on November 29th, 1981 in Peoria, Illinois. Nicholas never knew his father. His father was a member of a gang and died in the streets. His mother, Martha Louise Thomas, was incarcerated for prostitution and petty crimes and institutionalized for mental illness for most for Nicholas’ early life. She died in 2016 from a drug overdose. Nicholas lived in many foster homes until he was adopted by Elijah and Emma J. Crutcher. This provided a foundation of love and hope.

Cornerstone to date Since that first summer camp, Nicholas has followed a calling that had included partnerships in Wisconsin, Colorado, Nevada, Washington D.C., California, and Georgia.

Prior to two years ago, Nicholas always teamed with a local nonprofit to create each local program. In 2018, he formed Crutcher Cornerstone Community Development Corporation to create a platform to empower each community to develop the programs needed to serve families and the youth. We are in the process of building the tools and resources that will empower more leaders across the country to meet the needs of youth who are being left behind.

He has focused on creating summer camps and after-school programs where the need was clear for 25 years. He has impacted the

Pg. 112 |Suppor t Ser vices | People & Or ganizations

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Regina English

Vice President OF Board of Education Harrison School District 2 Colorado Springs, CO I was sworn into the Harrison School District Two, Board of Education, November 7, 2019, on my birthday and was immediately voted in as the Vice President to make my day even more special. I hold many titles, but this title is the most gratifying. Our youth are our today as tomorrow may be too late and I am honored to be a voice for 11,000+ students making sure that there is equity, inclusion and diversity within our district and that our scholars receive a quality education that will set them up for success for their present and future. We all must be intentional modeling the behaviors that we want to see and with education being a major focus in my life, it is important for me to pave the way and lead by example not only in education, but in community as well making sure that our students also understand their civic responsibility and I am actively bridging the gap for our young people that will be charged with leading the way and running our schools, cities,states, country and government one day. I am currently working to complete my Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership and I want our youth to say if Mrs. Regina can do it, I can do it! Written By Regina English

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- Business Features -

csu.org

DIVERSITY Of Perspectives

At Colorado Springs Utilities, it’s a privilege to contribute to the vitality and quality of life in the Pikes Peak Region.

We strive to reflect the increasingly diverse community we serve. That’s why diversity and inclusion are central to our work.

The utilities industry is changing rapidly. To stay ahead, we’re leveraging technology, along with staff thinking and experience, to meet our customers’ evolving needs.

Formed in 1996, our DELTA Diversity Team plays a vital role in ensuring we maintain an inclusive culture to facilitate leadership and employee engagement.

Serving a population of nearly 450,000, the community-owned utility provides electricity, natural gas, water and wastewater services.

This team - composed of employees from across the organization - encourages every employee to embrace the unique skills and differences of our workforce.

A not-for-profit enterprise of the city, we focus on providing exceptional service at the lowest rates possible. Our customers are at the center of everything we do.

We also develop and sustain relationships with diverse suppliers capable of providing products and services at competitive prices. These relationships help to strengthen the economy and increase business opportunities for everyone.

Inherent to our mission is a strong commitment to community. We actively support local economic development and civic projects. In addition, our employees generously volunteer their time and talents to help others

Together, we will shape a bright future.

Aram Benyamin Chief Executive Officer

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Jasmine Pierson

Operations Controller

I am a water operations controller at Colorado Springs Utilities. I have worked here for seven years. I operate our water distribution, raw water, non-potable and wastewater systems through our Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition systemâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; otherwise known as SCADA. This is a computer system that monitors and controls our equipment and technology in the field. Part of my responsibilities include forecasting day to day water usage and keeping the water system operating efficiently to deliver water safely and reliably. Diversity of thought is valuable to Colorado Springs Utilities because it allows our company to be innovative and forwardthinking. Since we are such a diverse company it allows different perspectives on ideas and unique insight into problems. Springs Utilities is an inclusive employer because we value all individuals, which is a key aspect to how we are all connected. My favorite part about working at Colorado Springs Utilities is knowing how vital our impact is to this community, and how hard we all work to bring our customers the best services. I also love working at Springs Utilities because there are unlimited opportunities to succeed and so many resources to help you reach your goals.

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Andrew Johnson

Workforce Development Specialist I was first hired as a Utility Worker 1 in 2009 for Wastewater Collections. Within a year I was promoted into the Wastewater Collections apprenticeship program where I became a Master Journeyman. In 2016 I was promoted to my current role with the University of Springs Utilities as a Workforce Development Specialist. I help make sure our employees are properly trained and able to perform the tasks necessary to keep the city running. The training we provided is not only mandatory, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary to bring mothers and fathers home safely to their families. Colorado Springs Utilities has given me an opportunity to better myself and grow into a career field I can be proud of. I was a construction worker who worked his way up from the bottom. The leadership in this company embraced, encouraged and challenged me to be more. My favorite part about working here is the people. I love to get out and network and meet new people. Colorado Springs Utilities has made me feel important and valued. Diversity of thought is not only valuable to Colorado Springs Utilities, but to every organization in the country. Without diversity of thought and experience we shackle ourselves to a Univision workforce unable to progress and compete in a society becoming more diverse every second. Although Springs Utilities is not at the finish line, our veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; programs, disabilities programs, diversity programs and our work in the community shows we are on the right track.

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Michelle Willis-Hill

Environmental Specialist

For the last 17 years, I have been working as an Environmental Specialist in the Environmental Services Division at Colorado Springs Utilities. My responsibilities include environmental compliance audits of our facilities, operations and off-site waste disposal sites, management of hazardous materials and wastes, training on environmental regulations, performing environmental assessments of real property transactions, and providing technical guidance on projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations in support of our environmental stewardship initiatives. When diversity of thought is absent, the tunnel vision of like-mindedness becomes perilous to innovation and creativity. Our best is demonstrated when we embrace and harness the ideas, viewpoints and perspectives of people from various ages, experiences, and backgrounds as an essential component of the way we must do business to stay relevant not only today, but also as we prepare for the future. Diversity of thought is also a strategy for which Springs Utilities positions itself in the community as an inclusive employer by attracting, developing and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that is representative of the community we serve. My ongoing efforts to help Colorado Springs Utilities be more relevant in the larger community include participation on the Harrison School District Twoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bond Construction Oversight Committee to provide input on construction capital projects; serving as a Peak Education mentor to high school seniors to assist them through successful navigation of the college funding process; and contributing as a Very Involved Parent on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiatives at Harrison High School.

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Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities | Pg. 117

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Ebony De La Torre

Business Application Administrator I have worked for Colorado Springs Utilities for 3½ years as a Business Application Administrator II. My primary responsibility is the phone system and support of our Customer Contact Handling Platform used by our Customer Services Division. This includes 65 phone numbers including the main phone number, outbound campaigns, and chat customer channels of choice. One of the values that our organization is centered on is “People.” Through leveraging the different perspectives, strengths and point of views from a diverse workforce, we make better decisions in support of those we serve. We are a community-owned, four service utility, so our customers also are our citizen owners. That’s why it’s so important that we value continuous improvement and being able to identify ways to better deliver against our customers’ expectations. I plan on continuing to share my skillset, experience, and learnings from a technologycentric customer experience background to identify ways we can continue to improve best practices. Helping to translate customer wants into technological requirements, onboard and support the platforms identified to meet those needs will be crucial as our rate payer base continues to grow. My favorite part about working for Colorado Springs Utilities is being able to help our community members. It is important to know that I have an impact on the lives of others with the work that I do. Knowing that my contributions add value and support our organization being viewed as a community asset plays a big part in my professional fulfillment.

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Stephen Chandler

North District Energy Supply Maintenance Superintendent As a 15-year employee of Colorado Springs Utilities, currently I’m the North District Energy Supply Maintenance Superintendent. My responsibilities include oversight of maintenance activities, budgeting and the continuous improvement of plant maintenance practices for all North District Energy Supply Assets. The Energy Supply Maintenance Department is comprised of individuals from very diverse backgrounds and experiences. This diversity leads to creative problem-solving, resulting in improved work processes and procedures. Throughout my career, I have attempted to maintain a focus on team cohesion. This stems from the belief that a strong team gives all members a voice and differences of opinion do not discourage outside-the-box thinking. My personal experience is an example of how Springs Utilities is an inclusive employer. Entering the workforce after college, I quickly began to question my career path. I missed working with my hands and the satisfaction it brought. After several years of trying to find my way in the office environment, I decided to seek out career alternatives. Through employment research and a few chance meetings with Springs Utilities employees, I was convinced Springs Utilities was the organization I wanted to be part of. They spoke of an environment that was open to internal mobility. Having no power generation experience at the time, fifteen years ago I was offered an entry-level position within the Energy Supply Department. Through the strength of the apprenticeship programs and a personal commitment to continuous improvement, I’m now in a position where I’m able to provide similar opportunities for others.

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amcmbirth.com

"Know your rights as a pregnant woman and have someone who will advocate for you.â&#x20AC;? - Demetra Seriki

Pg. 120 | Sponsors

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A Mothers Choice | Midwifery Demetra Seriki

A Mothers Choice | Midwifery Colorado Springs, CO Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you became a midwife? I was born and raised right here in Colorado Springs. I was also a teenage mom. I was 16 when I had my first child. I loved being around babies and would take opportunities to be with my friends at their child’s birth, for support. Fast forward 15 years later, I still had a passion for being around young, soon to be mothers. I decided to do a career change. I started going to school and clinical training to become a midwife. I am a certified professional Midwife. I attend births that are done at home or the hospital and walk alongside the families. These families are looking for somebody who is a good listener, who will spend time with them and can clearly articulate the common terms of the risks and benefits of the choices they

are making. Giving birth makes women vulnerable. I made a decision that here, in my city, I will do all that I can to help. I strive to make a difference not only in the birthing process but also working hand in hand with different agencies to decrease black infant mortality. What are the top five things women should focus on during pregnancy? Find a provider that you are comfortable with and is sensitive to your needs. It's essential that your voice is heard, and that your medical provider connects with you. We have some providers that still believe that black women's pain tolerance is higher. Those doctors might not be so quick to give us pain medication during the first stage of labor. It’s barbaric when you think about it. Express your concerns. One of the biggest worries documented is pregnant women dont express their concerns to their providers for fear of being judged. Another fear is not

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being heard. It’s insane, but it’s also a hard truth we deal with. It’s essential that women recognize some of their habits need to change. Small modifications in lifestyle could ultimately save their baby’s life, including their own. Know your rights as a pregnant woman and have someone who will advocate for you. Plan ahead because once you are in active labor, the right and left side of the brain don’t communicate well. It becomes increasingly difficult to communicate efficiently or think clearly. Find you a community-based health worker. This is why they are here. There is a handful of us in El Paso County, including workers of color. With finding a community health worker, they can help you navigate the system; believe me, it is a system. The system is structurally oppressive. Interview By Brandon Bornes

Sponsors | Pg. 121

Denver Public Libraries | Blair Caldewell Research Library | Denver, CO

A Tourist Perspective By Porsha Stuckey

Nestled in the heart of Denver’s historic and ethnically vibrant Five Points district, the Blair Caldwell African American Research Library has, for seventeen years, been serving the community as a reserve of Black history archives. The 40,000 square foot library contains three impressive floors, each dedicated to showcasing considerable collections of the achievements of African-Americans in Denver, and their contributions to revolutionizing the American West. The library was conceived by the honorable

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Wellington Web, the first Black Mayor of Denver, and First Lady Wilma Web. The couple envisioned erecting a museum that would preserve and showcase Black folks’ underrepresented influences on Denver’s educational, political, and economic advancements. The name, “Blair Caldwell” is a combination of two prominent political figures proposed by the Webs. Omar Blair, a Tuskegee Airman who later became the first Black president of the Denver school board, and Elvin Caldwell, who was the first Black member admitted to Denver’s City Council. I was permitted the honor to meet with Ms. Terry Nelson, the library’s Special Collection and Community Resource Manager, who granted me the privilege of a private tour. Upon entry, I was immediately enveloped by

a sense of a sacred welcoming and belonging. Artist Yvonne Muinde’s outstanding mural, which surrounds the front desk, shone down on me like a melanated sun and seemed to beckon me nearer. Entitled, The Spirit of Togetherness, the acrylic wall painting is most befitting the entrance of this unique library. It thoughtfully combines Black personages from the old West, with contemporary images of legendary heroes and heroines. From these depictions, it is inherently understood that if not for our browbeaten brethren, who migrated to the West as early as 1860, settled, and developed the land, further advancements by wellknown civil and equal rights leaders could not have been made. This provocative work of art begs us to contemplate the enormity that we abounded after a liberation that was never intended to occur, and have prevailed in a country in which we used to be enslaved. Upon entry, this stunning painting chides that we are stronger together and that our successes are primarily due to the courage and inventiveness of our ancestors, vis-à-vis, we need each other. Moving on, I observed that the first-floor functions as a full-service, conventional, library. However, touring it was the equivalent of shaking a succession of prominent hands at an exclusive meet and greet. A large portion of the first-floor’s walls is lined with an assemblage of photographs and excerpts detailing the accomplishments

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of some of Denver’s past and present council members, educators, attorneys, ministers, journalists, ambassadors, firefighters, Tuskegee Airmen, and diplomats. Reading about them from behind their roped enclosure was a wonderful refresher that debunks the myth that we are incompetent to attain such achievements, or are the minority in such statuses. Ascending to Blair Caldwell’s second floor uncovers a long wooden hall of striking glass display cases. They contain relics and collectibles of African Americans, not long freed from slavery, who accomplished extraordinary things amid racially hostile eras. Memorabilia documenting their diplomas, degrees, and prominent affiliations with top-ranking social groups, religious sects, and educational networks, widely believed as exclusive to Whites only members, extend the full length of the second level. Additionally, the second floor houses a quaint study and media room tastefully adorned with a salient mural by local artist, Darrell Anderson. Entitled, The Essence of Huey P. Newton, the canvas pays a whimsical tribute to the late co-founder of the Black Panther Party. Furthermore, visitors may devour a considerable collection of reference books and academic journals on microfilm. These donated collections are

dedicated to the furtherance and preservation of Denver’s Black history and beyond. Such titles in each compilation include: “Denver Landmarks & Historic Districts,” “The Mediterranean In History,” “Africa – The Time Has Come,” “Sowing The Mustard Seed,” “Visions of Finland,” “North American Indian Landmarks, Travelers Guide,” and “In Our Own Words.” And yet, the third floor of Blair Caldwell seems to await Black history- seekers as a gracious host, a most welcomed guest. Exiting the elevator to the third level beholds a sprawling galleria of vivid hand-painted portraits of Black pioneers whom you and your children ought to know. The waxed corridor then reveals an unrestricted opening to an alluring exhibition hall, through which visitors may self-guide themselves or schedule a directed tour. The museum is unique for its thoughtful design to provide a palpable and interactive learning experience. I delighted in sitting in the replicated version of the iconic Roxy Theatre (unphotographed at the behest of Mrs. Nelson), which plays an informative and entertaining, 8-minute docufilm about the history of Denver. Sightseers will be pleased to discover other staged reproductions of Denver’s historical

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accounts, such as the Mural of Barbershop exhibit, the first Denver Trolley replica, and rare photos of Hendey & Meyer’s: Erecting and Boiler Shop, Excelsior Steam Engine Works, and the Pattern Shop. All were some of the first Black-owned businesses to successfully open and operate with longevity in Denver dating back to the 1900s. I emerged from my fourhour tour with a new layer of education, completely reinvigorated, and grateful. Knowledge of self has always been posited as quintessential for every individual to achieve self-actualization, or to become the most that one can be. The birthplace of self-knowledge initiates from deep inside each person, and the stimulus for this initiation is generated through factual storytelling about one’s parents, extended family, place of origin, and heritage. These tidbits of knowledge are paralleled to droplets of water, which, when coalesced, form a great lake. To be denied such stories will inevitably prove detrimental to an individual’s pursuit to self-actualize. Yet, thankfully, the Blair Caldwell African American Research Library and Museum is likened to a reservoir, standing at the ready to help replenish some of the missing narratives. Sponsors | Pg. 123

Black America West Museum & Dr. Justina Laurena Ford Denver, CO “The Lady Doctor”, Dr. Justina Laurena Ford was the first Black Woman Licensed Physician to practice in Denver, Colorado from 1902 - 1952. Indeed her mother’s daughter, who was a nurse. And by her, Dr. Ford’s blooming interest in obstetrics and homeopathic care was cultivated as she accompanied her mother when she tended to patients some years after the Civil War. As an adult, the young apprentice would later expound upon her mother’s novice teachings

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at Hering Medical College, from which she graduated in 1899. She had married Baptist Minister, John Ford in 1892, who first move to Denver to minister at Zion Baptist Church. Dr. Ford joined him in 1902, whereafter settling in she received her Colorado medical license. By Dr. Ford’s hands, thousands of men and women healed of their afflictions, and the diverseness of her clientele made her multilingual in more than seven languages. As notoriety of her medicinal mastery expanded, Dr. Ford became affectionately regarded as “The Lady Doctor,” and to others, “The Baby Doctor.” She would

pioneer many holistic treatments and safely deliver an estimated 7000 babies (1 baby every three days) during her revolutionary career. Today the museum houses relics of other African Americans’ significance in shaping the Colorado we know today. Their artifacts chronicle periods between 1860 – 1950 (Civil War to WWII). Visitors are permitted reasonably priced admission to a self-guided tour of Dr. Ford’s two-story, five-bedroom home wherein one can find the very room from which she practiced and survey her medical instruments in pristine condition.

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A Place For Black Cowboys Founder Paul W. Stewart Paul W. Stewart, founder of the Black American West Museum, grew up in Iowa playing cowboys and Indians with his friends who always made him play an Indian. They assured him that there were no black cowboys and thus he had to play the role of the Indian. As an adult living in Denver, Stewart discovered this was not true and began a lifetime search for stories, photographs, clothing, memorabilia, and papers to document the existence of black cowboys in the West. Stewartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion led him beyond cowboys and he accumulated an extensive collection related to black Western pioneers that he wanted to share with others. In 1971, the collection served as the nucleus of a small museum that opened in the basement of Denverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clayton College. In 1983, when community leaders learned that a developer planned to raze the Dr. Justina Ford House, they requested a delay to allow them to find funds and a location for its removal. The developer complied and Historic Denver, Inc., a private non-profit group, gave preservation funds to move the home in 1984 to its current California Street location in Five Points.

Ison Dart | Cowboy 1849-1900

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Lia Nelson

Owner of Little Brown Skin Girls Denver, CO Lia Nelson is a uniquely talented artist. For the past six years, she’s been creating beautifully delicate, Black-centric Paper Art, using a distinctive mix of the Decoupage and Kirigami technique. The result is a strikingly accurate, and wonderfully imaginative depiction of Black culture in motion. Lia attributes her flair for art and design to her beloved father, who has since passed away. She speaks of him so lovingly that a listener could readily feel the warmth of his memory, and as though they knew him too: “My father was a blue-collar, manly man. He liked working with his hands and would make art for our home out of practical, everyday things. My sister was artistically gifted from the beginning; I wasn’t. When my father passed, my artistic talents suddenly blossomed. My father was the bedrock of our family; his death left a huge hole. Exploring my gifts allowed me to capture fond memories of my family and grieve his loss.” Although whimsical, Lia’s art also has a cathartic bent, which awakens fond memories and facilitates healing in the hearts of admirers of her work. Having been thrice commissioned by Judge Kristopher Colley – City of Aurora, Tracey Lovett— Vice President of Daniels Foundation, and Ryan Ross— Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs for Colorado College Systems, demonstrates her aesthetic breadth. Evermore impressive is Lia’s creations are one-of-a-kind, custom art pieces. People have tried to replicate her originals, but the distinctiveness of the prototypes was lost Pg. 126 | Sponsors

in the process. The inability to reproduce her artwork has increased its reverence and value. Though esteemed for its facets of exclusivity and originality, interested buyers shouldn’t expect to pay extravagant pricing as Lia’s pieces range from $30 – $50. Today, a gallery of her work can be found at Bella Luna Gifts & Gallery, an astonishing gathering house for the designs of local artists and handcrafted jewelry from international locations. As well, Ms. Nelson hosts an annual exhibition at the Blair Caldwell African American Library, also located in Denver. The next showing is scheduled for April 2020. Members of the community happily anticipate her yearly show and in particular, ambitious youths. To aspiring artists, Lia humbly advises confidence in their individualism: “In my youth up through when I first began college, I would discard what I created because I didn’t think it looked as good as whoever’s. I got over my insecurity when I realized what I was creating was unlike anything I’d ever seen. Eventually, I would go on to find my own thing through Little Brown Skin Girls in my early fifties. It’s important to know these things take time. So, do you, do your thing; however you do it.” On the topic of vision, Robert Collier once related: “vision reaches beyond the thing that is, into the conception of what can be. Imagination gives you the picture. Vision gives you the impulse to make the picture your own.” Lia’s creations are reigning illustrations of what we may pull in from the abyss of imagination if we dare only to reach. Written By Porsha Stuckey Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

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bbiprofessional.com

Jice Johnston Owner Black Business Initiative Denver, CO

What is BBI About? Founded in 2014, The Black Business Initiative, a Public Benefit Corporation, aims to change the narrative by creating and supporting holistic solutions by working with community members, government, private partners, and organizations to deliver strong business acumen training, mentorship programs, cooperative and traditional pathways to access capital, increased patronage in Black-owned businesses, and sound policy that closes the economic chasm known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;wealth gap.â&#x20AC;? What are some things that you are excited about? Recently we have received a ot of recognition. Ie Denver Business Journal have 40 under 40. We got the Urban Leadership Foundation Legacy and Leadership award. We were awarded the Denver Urban Spectrum African Americans who make a difference. We were awarded the Colorado black women for political action emerging leader award. We are out here. We are working for the community and people are recognizing the work that's being done.. that means that we are probably right on track, a lot of businesses struggles to make it into their fifth year. So the fact that we're here and we're strong and we're growing has been great. What piece of advice would you give your younger self? Discernment. be a little bit more Discerning. I think it's always a tightrope walk. When you have a vision and a passion and you are about doing the work and you are about your community and one of the things that is has been pretty painful for me is sometimes if there are people in the community that want to take advantage of Your good will that want to take advantage of your time that want to take advantage of your desire to be a help and you have to be able to find how to maintain yourself and your mission and your vision and still love the community that you're here to serve. Interview By Brandon Bornes Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

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shirleystewart.us

Shirley Stewart Real Estate Colorado Springs, CO

What are some skills you have developed over the years that's helped you be successful? I've been in sales for 30 years, and my first stint was with Mary Kay cosmetics. At that time I didn't wear any makeup, but I joined it anyway because it was a sales job and I could get a tax write-off. That was kind of like a foundation for me to get into sales, learning how to set goals and learning how to dream. They also taught me sales techniques. You could have something that someone absolutely loves, but if they don't like you, they're not going to buy anything from you. So the first step is just being likable and having people skills to be able to adapt to different personalities. I've had clients that probably didn't like me in the beginning, but by the time we were done, they loved me. It's a matter of dealing with their personality. How did you weather the ups and downs in the real estate industry? As long as you put some money to the side, you should be ok. An emergency fund is a big deal, not just for real estate agents, but for every single person in America, and that's just having six months of payments saved up for a rainy day. What are the most prominent concerns from Home Buyers? Their biggest concern is their down payment. A lot of people think that you need a 20 grand downpayment for a house. Most people are never going to have that. So what I do is I explain the process and find out what their income is to see what program I can put them in, and get them down payment assistance. Once I get them pre-approved, we start looking for a home. Interview By Brandon Bornes

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dagmaleblanc.exprealty.com

Dagma Le-Blanc Real Estate Colorado Springs, CO

As a Realtor nearing ten years in sales and residential real estate, I enjoy being the direct connection between my clients and the home of their dreams. I have found that the foundation of success in my industry is the willingness, patience, and understanding that the universe is continuously providing the perfect opportunities, circumstances, and people to make things happen. My clients know when working with me, they will receive a level of care that is second to none. My years of experience ensure

my connection to an extensive network of industry insiders, making the moment you wake up and decide to buy a home, searching for the perfect home, financing, closing day, and everything in-between, as smooth as possible. There is no aspect of the home buying process with which I am not intimately familiar. I work tirelessly to ensure clients get the home that not only meets all expectations but exceeds them. In this season of my business, I am most excited to collaborate with like-minded

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individuals who share a passion for increasing positive exposure within our community. If I could give my younger self advice, it would be, make mistakes and make them often. Every decision you make will lead you to exactly where you're supposed to be. A cornerstone for wealth in this country is real estate. Let me help you leave a lasting legacy. Written By Dagma Le-Blanc

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clubtiltgrill.com

Tilt, and the Blue MF. Yet, many have raved that the atmosphere is Club Tilt's most exceptional attraction. The warm, low, lighting, mixed with old school R&B, comfortable seating, and the aroma of seasoned cooking wafting through the air, genuinely appeals to souls of Black folks. These are the elements that, when combined, create a culturally familiar ambiance that is rare and refreshing.

Albert & Cheronda Wills Owners of Club Tilt & Grill Colorado Springs, CO

Club Tilt & GrillSpring's newest ritzy nightclub with a lounge-type feel. It's located in the shopping plaza at 3744 Astrozon Boulevard, and its popularity is soaring. The gracious and personable owners, Albert and Charonda Wills, joined the Colorado community by way of Indianapolis. "Club Tilt" was a dream that the Will's spoke into existence while joking amongst themselves one night:

"We're more geared toward operating a sophisticated establishment. We're not into the half-naked dress or drunken conduct. We also have a zero-tolerance policy regarding rude, illicit, and violent behavior of any kind. You only get one chance, and if you violate our policy, you may never come back. When we say zero tolerance, we mean zero tolerance!" There is always something fun and engaging going on at Club Tilt, and the owners endeavor to keep it that way. Every kind of entertainment from Karaoke night,

amateur comedy, live bands, special guest performances, and open mic poetry is hosted each day of the week, so patrons are sure to find an activity that appeals to them. "We have a different type of event every day of the week because different people like to do different things on different days. We also try not to put a cover charge on the front door unless there is a special event or concert. People also love that we promptly greet them. We say, "Welcome to Club Tilt!" so much, that even customers say it to other customers." As Club Tilt spreads as the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new favorite hangout, so too do the owner's future aspirations. The power couple plans to strengthen their social media presence, expand the size of the club, and further develop Pattie's menu. To aspiring club owners, Mrs. Wills advises, "Make sure the club business is something you really want to do. Get ready to give up a lot of your free time. You want to be able to run your business, not have your business run you." Written By Porsha Stuckey

"We used to sometimes kick it in our basement, drink, and chill. We had a little bar, lights, and music set up down there. It was really nice. My little sister came up with the name Club Tilt because every time she left our basement, she'd say she was "tilted." So, we said one day we'd make it come true. Five years later, we opened Club Tilt in the summer of 2019." Club Tilt features Pattie's Kitchen, affectionately named for the owners' mothers, both of whom are named Patricia and share a love of cooking. The menu comprises hot and delicious made-to-order finger and soul foods that can be ordered in or cooked to go. Menu items include chicken wings, fried okra, pork chops, deep-fried zucchini, sea food, and much more. Additionally, patrons are sure to relish their colorful, top shelf, bar famous for the club's signature cocktails, The Pg. 130 | Sponsors

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hendersonconsulting.org

“During that time, many people, including my patients, family, and friends, told me that I needed to start my own business. I was good at what I did and underpaid for it. Penrose was making money off of me that I could have been making for myself...” Mrs. Henderson resigned from Penrose and accepted a position with the El Paso County, Human Relations group, which unfortunately proved even less fulfilling than her previous role. After one year, she decided she had had enough: “The atmosphere for me was stressful. It was also an environment in which diversity was not valued. I developed high blood pressure as a result. That’s when I made up my mind to start my own firm.” After a loving endorsement of support and reassurance from her husband, Mrs. Henderson began structuring her business plan. She eventually made a rather seamless transition from corporatized mental healthcare to independent consultancy. After twenty years in the industry, she’d entrenched an esteemed reputation and was a well-known entity in the healthcare field:

Gené Henderson Owner | Henderson Consulting Colorado Springs, CO

Henderson Consulting & EAP services is the brainchild and booming life’s work of Mrs. Genè Henderson, an African American, Master Addictions Counselor, who, in 2006, founded the mental health treatment and Employee Assistance Program and services firm. Mrs. Henderson attributes an extraordinary sum of over thirty years’ field practice to a range of addiction-related disciplines. And, she is impressively accomplished in the academic arena, having earned two Masters of Science and Art degrees, each emphasizing Rehabilitation Counseling, and attaining several hard-earned national and state certifications in Addiction Counseling. Mrs. Henderson found the facets of addiction intriguing, and the cascading impacts of

chemical dependency on individuals and their families ultimately inspired her to go into the field. Thus, she began her counseling career in 1979 in Topeka, Kansas. In 1987, Genè moved to Colorado Springs and took a position with Penrose St. Francis’ Profile EAP department. Her distinct aptitude for the role swiftly merited her a promotion to management in 1989. Here she would, for twenty years, do an impeccable job of administering assessments, counseling, and facilitating referrals for employees with personal or work-related concerns. Alas, despite having achieved great success and notoriety among her colleagues and clients, there came a time when Gene’ began to question whether remaining at Penrose was in her best interest:

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“When I opened my doors on January 1, 2007, I already had eight corporate clients. Over the years, our client base consistently increased to over forty corporate clients. What sets us apart is our customer service. Our clients are very important to us. So, if that means taking a client late or after hours, we do it. You get what you need here.” Henderson Consulting, today, is led by Mr. Aaron Henderson, Ph.D., who is Mrs. Henderson’s eldest son. The firm comprises an intentionally diverse staff of impassioned counselors whose credentialing and experience together total eighty years. “Our staff mirrors the population that we serve, which includes the military. Because mental health is taboo, people want to sit down with people they can relate to.” Accordingly, the firm has arisen a highly respected and trusted mental health provider in Colorado Springs and had administered more than 4,500 clinical sessions by the end of 2019. Written By Porsha Stuckey Sponsors | Pg. 131

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in-balancedance.com

Leona Abdulla-Ward Dance Fitness Instructor In Balance Colorado Springs, CO

I am a Retired Military (E-8 MSG) Soldier, A lifelong exercise enthusiast, Psychotherapist/ Yoga-Exercise Instructor, and I am in the process of expanding my Private Practice from a talk therapy, to Dance Therapy to encourage more avenues to mental, physical, and spiritual healing. I do what I do to provide an educational fitness and therapy studio where members can attend a wide array of courses including physical and mental wellness programs with the intent to encourage healthy behavioral and lifestyle changes. I like to say I got started in the housing projects on the West side of Chicago Illinois. We lived on the 14th floor and the elevators were always broken, so I went up and down 26 flights of stairs at least 3-4 times a day, I joined the Army and realized its rigorous fitness Program was very easy for me to concur, I guess the projects did something good, I became a Master fitness Instructor and taught fitness to Military leaders who were obligated to keep their Soldiers Physical Fit. It became a passion learning its benefits to health and I would like to share that passion of health with a community stricken with health disparities that can be illuminated with knowledge. A healthy lifestyle change can make a difference in your mental, spiritual and physical health, giving you the opportunity to live life to its fullest, it can reverse the “irreversible” diabetes, stop the ingestion of dangerous medications and ladies, it will take away the need to purchase make-up, your nutritional change will be your makeup and you’ll love it and your new vitality for life. I am learning that Physical Fitness alone is not the answer to a healthy body, but what we put into our body, giving our body movement and the ability to be stress free at will, this is what I offer at In-Balance. I would tell my younger self “You go little girl, you got it going on” .

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chloemaddisonskin.com

Cashmyr & Rodney Scott Skin Studio Owners Chloe Maddison Colorado Springs, CO

Chloe + Maddison Skin is a premier Permanent Makeup Studio specializing in the latest industry techniques in micro pigmentation and has the largest digital footprint in Permanent Makeup within Colorado Springs, CO. We service clients in need of permanent makeup services such as Micro blading, Micro shading, Permanent Lip Color and Eye Liner, Scalp Micro pigmentation, and Scar Camouflage. We utilize high quality tools and pigments to ensure that the services we provide last for the maximum average time. We are so proud to service Colorado Springs and surrounding areas! If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in how our services can impact your life please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Thank you so much! Behind The Scenes with Cashmyr Cashmiyr received her education in Esthetics in 2014 from The Salon Professional Academy and soon after decided to pursue her dreams in permanent makeup artistry. Cashmiyrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye for detail and symmetry along with her empathetic nature is what drives her to provide exceptional service to her clients. As a result of her passion for esthetics and makeup Cashmiyr opened Chloe + Maddison Skin Studio named after her two beautiful daughters.

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Sponsors | Pg. 133

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(719) 534-9844

Dorothy Bee

Real Estate Agent Colorado Springs, CO

Dorothy Bee is a highly perceptive, wellinformed, licensed insurance agent who’s passionate about preparations for the unexpected. She specializes in educating her clients about auto, home, renters, life, and business insurance, and right-fitting them for the products most suitable for their lifestyle needs. Mrs. Bee owns and operates Dorothy Bee Insurance Agency under the Farmers Insurance umbrella in Colorado Springs, but can access policies through other subsidiaries when necessary. Her agency has received outstanding reviews for the personable one-on-one attention and genuine concern bestowed by her staff. They believe procuring insurance coverage isn't merely about complying with the "necessary evils" as required by law, but ensuring individuals and their families are protected when life happens. “The insurance industry was originally a turnkey opportunity for me. I was an agent for just two weeks when I got my first life insurance claim from an older gentleman whose eighteen-year-old grandson passed away unexpectedly. Processing that claim brought home the harsh reality that if nothing else, I need to make sure every child has a life insurance policy.” Mrs. Bee further enlightened that life insurance for a young person is like a savings account. They can use it for college, to buy a house or anything they need. As a new insurance agent who was suddenly obliged to support a parent through their worst nightmare, amplified her motivation: “My first thoughts were that that baby didn’t get to use his policy for those things. This was a pivotal moment for me because it helped me realize how important having life insurance is. The only thing I could do was help ease that family’s burden. I took care of as much of the administrative process as I could, so that the only task he had to focus on was his grandson’s arrangements.”

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Realizing that neither her children nor any of her friends’ children had life insurance, deepened her passion for the types of insurance she sold, and the importance of insurance education. Mrs. Bee wisely advises that coverage isn’t just about safeguarding assets, but providing for the people we love when we can’t. “[My agency] has a desire to insure you where you are in life meaning, you won’t be paying for something you don’t need or want. We’ll ask you about your lifestyle, how many children you have, if you own a home, if you’re still paying a mortgage, and income. If someone falls and hurts themselves on your lawn, we’re going to make sure that if you’re a millionaire, your

assets are protected.” In closing, Mrs. Bee wishes to debunk the myths that insurance is either too expensive or unimportant. Customers can save hundreds of dollars by bundling their coverages, and thousands of dollars more when faced with a natural disaster that destroys a home, car accident, or an untimely death. “Money can’t replace a loved one, but it will take one burden off your mind and allow you some time to gather your strength.” The average cost for a funeral is $7000.00. These types of financial obligations are much easier to handle when protected. “Please don’t wait to learn the importance of insurance coverage until after it’s too late.” -Written By Porsha Stuckey

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aplatinumresume.com

Kara Varner

Professional Writer Platinum Resume & Career Services Colorado Springs, CO I am Kara Varner, Founder and CEO of A Platinum Resume and Career Services, LLC, which provides modern and professional resumes and career documents, and A Platinum Resume Career Academy, which provides comprehensive on-line training for jobseekers solopreneurs. I am a 4X Certified Professional Resume Writer and Colorado's only Certified Resume Specialist for Military to Civilian Transitions and a Certified Employment Interview Coach. I also hold a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Management; a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology, and I am a Certified Trainer, LinkedIn Profile Writer, Published Author, Speaker, and Workshop Facilitator. I started my business after I was asked to review a neighbor’s resume, and I realized that I could make it much better. As a military spouse, I had crafted my own resume every two years. While rewriting that resume, I had that ‘aha’ moment. I researched the field, and realized that this a career. After reflecting on my life at the time - running all the time - balancing a 9 to 5 management position working for the someone else; kids in daycare at the time; not enough time for family, stretched to thin, and being married to a military officer with a short-notice deployment schedule, I knew that something had to change. So, I made a change. I am most proud of my ability to leave ‘corporate’ and not look back; leverage my 20-year career background in federal government, civilian and corporate positions, and turn my passion for writing into a successful and profitable business. I find so much reward in helping my clients to articulate their unique value proposition through strategic storytelling within professional career documents and their success! What I have learned after almost a decade of owning my own business is to continue to be grateful, continue to learn and grow, that 6 figures is possible and to

continue to pay it forward and give back. I am now excited to launch another business, where I will teach other overworked, often underpaid individuals striving for 'something

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more’ how to create and launch their own resume writing and coaching business. My success is dependent on my clients’ success - their achievements are my proudest Sponsors | Pg. 135

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lashesbytina.com bridesbytina.com

After begging for a raise for about a year, I got my senses together and started renting a booth at a local salon. I had acquired both white and black clients, but after leaving the company, I realized that only a handful of black women followed me. That handful of Black women took care of me! I worked for about a week and recognized that I made in one day what my paycheck was for the whole week working for another company. That’s when I concluded I would never work for someone again; only if doing so would significantly benefit me. I continued working as a booth renter and went to school part-time. After graduating from Pharmacy Technician school in 2003, I realized it was a field for which I had no passion. I wanted to be a full time cosmetologist. That same year I opened up my own hair salon. It was more expensive to open my salon because I had to purchase all the equipment, and the rent for the location was higher because it was a private space. It allowed me to create in a peaceful environment with no interruptions. It was the best decision I ever made, especially since I was raising my kids as a single parent. It gave me time to spend with my children because they were always with me. Being an artist is a gift you’re born with. It makes me thank God that I was created so different and unique. My hands are the gift God has given me. They give me an outlet that I cannot explain. My career is something that consumes me. I eat sleep and dream about it. It keeps me focused and dedicated and always wanting to learn more and love sharing my knowledge with others.

Shawtina Lane

Owner of Lashes By Tina & Brides By Tina Colorado Springs, CO One thing about me is I have always known what I wanted to do from a young age. I was very blessed to have such foresight. After graduating from hair design school, I worked at a salon company for more than two years Pg. 136 | Sponsors

before I realized I didn’t have to work there to do what I love to do. The company was taking 60% of my earnings, and the 40% I did receive was taxed.

In 2018 I reached my goal of starting my own product line, Lashes by Tina. I hope to launch my new bridal lingerie line soon. Additionally, I want to make improvements in my business by adding and training a new hair and makeup team to help me achieve my goals as a disabled veteran. I’m not done yet! I’m just getting started! I hope to launch my new bridal lingerie line soon for Brides by Tina which includes hair makeup and wardrobe styling for special events. I hope [My Black Colorado] stays blessed and striving in the community. Much love MBC. I appreciate the support! Keep up the great work! -Written By Shawtina Lane

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reggaepotxpress.com

Tamara Nisbeth Owner of Reggae Pot Express Colorado Springs, CO

Tamara Nisbeth is an impassioned chef, 22 years seasoned, (no pun), and the radiant proprietor of Reggae Pot Express; a authentic Jamaican Food eatery nuzzled at the cross-section of North Academy, and East Woodmen Road. Tamara was born and raised in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where she recollects the seriousness with which everyone on the island anticipated and prepared Sunday dinners: “Throughout the week, it was okay to eat whatever. But Sunday dinners were a big deal. Almost everyone used only fresh ingredients to cook a proper meal of fried chicken, rice and beans, blended juices, oxtails, brown stew chicken, and sautéed goat.” Raised by her beloved grandmother, who was also a cooking virtuoso, and Tamara’s first teacher, she began undergoing lessons in seasoning and cooking techniques as early as eight years old. In an overly ambitious yet innocent attempt to assist her grandmother with one Sunday dinner, Tamara fondly recalls adding a batch of uncooked beans to a dish and also burning the rice and peas, which resulted in a spanking. A firm lesson learned hard and well, as such a blunder never again occurred.

Tamara went on to graduate high school with a distinction certificate in food preparation. Furthering her education, she succeeded from Kenilworth Heart Academy in Sandy Bay, Jamaica, a graduate of Culinary Arts, with an emphasis in Commercial Food Preparation and Management. Credentials in hand, Tamara’s profession as a chef officially began in 1999 at Sandals Royal Caribbean, one of Montego Bay’s allinclusive, couples-only resorts on a private island. Here she was privileged to work with top chefs from around the world and to glean valuable insight from their expertise. She later acquired a work visa, which allowed her to travel Florida, where she worked as a cook at the exquisite 5-star Breakers Palm Beach Hotel. In 2008, Tamara relocated to Colorado, where she served as a cook at the Broadmoor, Penrose Hospital, and Lead Cook within several assisted living facilities. All were fulfilling roles, but Tamara missed supping food indigenous to her island. Thus she began baking and selling Jamaican dishes from her home: Written By Porsha Stuckey

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diamondbirdllc.com

Tanisha Bruns & Family Owners of Diamond Bird, LLC Colorado Springs, CO

Veteran & Women Owned, we specialize in Handcrafted Soaps and Skin Care Products. Our story began with uncovering a number of false and misleading advertisements. In particular, we realized the famed â&#x20AC;&#x153;1/4 moisturizing creamâ&#x20AC;? was much like the Wizard of Oz - a bunch of smoke and mirrors. This stoked a passion to be more knowledgeable and selective in what we put on and in our bodies. It also created a desire to live a simpler, more natural life. This life journey started a soap making hobby that allowed us to eliminate useless and harmful chemicals from our skin care routine. Pg. 138 | Sponsors

After sharing with our family and friends, who provided tons of feedback and encouragement, we researched more, reworked, reformulated, and improved our products. So, we invite you to experience the results of our passion for providing a line of skin care products that reflect a commitment to the well being of our valued customers, our community and environment. Only plant based oils and butters are used in our palm oil-free soaps, bath bombs and soaks, body scrubs, butters, oils and balms.

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coloradospringsmassages.com

Claudine Malcolm

Owner of World Of Wellness Colorado Springs, CO

What you do? World of Wellness (WOW) is a purpose driven center that consists of independent providers who offers wellness services to heal the mind, body and spirit. Education is central tenet in our approach as we provide affordable massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, chiropractic services and yoga! Our yoga is donation-based to make yoga accessible to everyone. This year, we are working diligently to add emotional counseling, meditation and nutrition to the menu. Why you do what you do? Life is beautiful but we often find ourselves distracted by the demands of our time and our hearts, distracted by suffering from accidents and disease and distracted by even our dreams. As a result of these distractions, we experience emotional and physical stress and we lose sight of the fact that life is beautiful. At World of Wellness (WOW) we aspire to relieve you of your distraction so that you can experience the simple beauty, pleasure of life. What is unique and valuable about your business? World of Wellness (WOW) is different because we genuinely want to make a difference! We want to connect with each client and we encourage talking and sharing. At World of Wellness (WOW), our main currency is hugs! Written By Claudia Malcolm

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Sponsors | Pg. 139

Let Us Connect You developed a special soap for her son’s skin disorder, which became useful to others with similar conditions. As well, she’d successfully treated a man with shingles using her own blend of essential oils. Likewise, a woman with a severe case of painful sinus and inflammation issues was cured of her ailments when Dr. Penn administered a parasite cleanse, that consisted of applying a substance called Paragon by way of drops on the tongue. That patient hasn’t suffered sinus issues since.

MyBlackColorado.com/Connect

“The thing is, I never volunteered my services or expertise. Those I treated came into my care during casual encounters or happenstance. So, I never considered holistic healing as a career.” Dr. Penn recalls 2012 as being her hardest year in corporate healthcare. She was a surgical technologist at a hospital in Texas, where she’d gotten written up for a complaint she wasn’t allowed to rebut. That day she emptied her locker in preparation to immediately depart the building if they were to fire her. It took another year, but ultimately, she was unjustly terminated: "The staff had been following me around, trying to get me fired. Eventually, they succeeded by blaming me for incidents that weren't my fault. By the time they succeeded, I had already been accepted to Chiropractic School.”

Dr. Lauren Penn Pinpoint Chiropractic Care Colorado Springs, CO

Lauren Penn has been healing people for more than twenty-five years. She was born with an innate gift to quickly discern the root cause of a person’s ailments and devise an effective plan of care to cure and restore them. Today, as a Doctor of Chiropractic and Holistic Healthcare Practitioner, she continues her life’s purpose through her private practice, Pinpoint Chiropractic and Wellness. Dr. Penn’s journey as a physician began out of necessity to establish steady employment independent of corporatized healthcare. And to acquire freedom as a single mother to readily parent her son, who suffered from Pg. 140 | Sponsors

asthma and eczema. Yet, doctoring by far wasn’t Lauren’s initial objective: “It was a fluke. I never wanted to be a doctor, but the doors for nursing were closing for me. I’d applied to the University of Arlington and had been on their waiting list for 2 ½ years. I worked for a hospital that said it would pay for my nursing school. However, when the time came, the Director of Surgery refused to sign off on my schooling because he felt no one liked me.” Nevertheless, her employer’s refusal to pay was a powerful motivator for intense selfreflection, which doubly served to extract her strengths. During her tenure, she’d

Lauren graduated from Parker University in 2017, with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree. After successfully passing all her boards, she opened her first private practice, Temple & Penn Chiropractic in Dallas. She attained several regular patients who sustained the practice for a year before her decision to relocate to Colorado. Upon arriving in the Home of the Rocky Mountains in 2019, she met Claudine Malcolm, a local business owner who provided her a space to open her new practice. To date, the talented doctor and therapist has made waves amid the urban and homeopathic communities and shows no signs of slowing down. Future aspirations for Dr. Penn include expanding the size of her practice to accommodate her growing client base and continuing to formulate effective treatment plans through environmental remedies. Written By Porsha Stuckey

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Michael Arkadie Jazz Funk Connection Colorado Springs, CO

Michael Arkadie is a business mogul, mentor, and proprietor of the Jazz Funk Connection, a live music venue "created by musicians, for musicians, and the fans who love to hear them!" The establishment is a cultural jewel nestled at the cross-section of Platte and Platte Place, and gaining high esteem for its homey atmosphere, delicious menu, and fantastic live music. Mr. Arkadie was Born in Denver and raised in Park Hill, one of Denver's oldest Black neighborhoods. His childhood locale meant he would almost inevitably find his church home at Union Missionary Baptist, where at just nine years old, he emerged a strong choir vocalist and talented drummer. Yet, the young performer had years before exhibited a knack for musicianship: "Music has always been my first passion. I began playing stringed instruments like the electric bass and acoustic guitar and was good. After an hour or so with any instrument, I could master it enough to play a song. Eventually, I advanced to more complex instruments like keyboards." After serving in the U.S. Military, Mr. Arkadie entrenched successful careers in I.T., commercial aviation, and healthcare.

Together, he and Mrs. Arkadie, BSN, founded one of ten, Black-owned Home Care agencies in the Denver Metropolitan area. For twenty years, Mr. Arkadie effectively succeeded as a corporate manager, but upon retiring envisioned attaining a new proprietorship relative to his first love: "I wanted to open a place for older Black people, or young Black people with old souls to come chill. I wanted an all-Black house band and to provide the quality of entertainment worthy of my personal taste, as well as customers and audiences." Thus, Mr. Arkadie began scouting potential sites and businesses for sale in Colorado Springs. He'd long-since observed the absence of "down-home" BBQ and soul food establishments throughout the city. As a mogul with a keen business mind, he seized the opportunity to capitalize on the scarcity of entertainment and cuisine specific to Black culture. He discovered the Platte Place location and was impressed with the layout and builtin sound system. The existing structure was also suitable for an eatery but needed work to become a proper live music venue. After procuring the location, Mr. Arkadie set to work with renovations and multiple

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upgrades, including sound-proofing the 12' x 24" stage and a swanky VIP area. "This is a grown-folks venue. I want people to know this is a good place to come, hear good music, eat good food, and enjoy being Black! If you get on my stage, you have to be good at what you do. You don't have to be a national title, but you must be one of the best jazz/R&B musicians out there." Future aspirations for the mogul include expansion to a chain and a mentorship program for hopeful high school musicians. To aspiring Black business professionals, Mr. Arkadie strongly advises patience and an executable plan: "I didn't have a lot of Black mentors growing up. But I've learned the Black man has everything he needs to be successful. [Nevertheless], patience is one of the hardest things for the Black man to exercise because so many of us grow up seeking the instant gratification provided by the 'street game.' I recommend they apply their street tenacity and hustle mentality to conquer the business world successfully. That's a 'game' truly worth winning!" Written By Porsha Stuckey Sponsors | Pg. 141

The Eastern Colorado Bank believes in building sincere working relationships. We will listen to your story and strive to understand your needs and priorities. You will find a personal touch within the Eastern Colorado Bank, and will always be treated with Honesty, Integrity and Respect. Our focus and commitment to you has remained, to this day, exactly the same as that day in 1944 when the doors were opened for the first time. Today, the Eastern Colorado Bank is operated by the third generation of the family that opened those doors and believes, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always about the people. Let us show you the difference a Locally Owned Community Bank can make in your business. Eastern Colorado Bank 444 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs, CO. 80903 719-955-0633 YourFriendlyBank.com

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8 1. & 4. Credit Stellar Propeller Studio / 2. & 3. Credit Mike Pach, 3 Peaks Photography & Design / 5. Courtesy of Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs / 6. Credit Humanitou / 7. Credit Kate Creative 8. Credit Tom Kimmel / 9. Credit Kayla Coburn.