On Wednesday February 19, 2020 I returned to my high school to address Middle and High School students. I was one of five alumni who were being recognized at the Maple Heights High Schools’ 16th Annual Pathfinder’s Assembly. The assembly culminates the school systems’ Black History Month activities. The purpose is to allow students to see, hear and interact with former graduates who have blazed a path to “success” in the areas of education, humanitarianism, citizenship/government, business and the arts and sciences.
The following quote was taken from the press release.
The Pathfinders Program was created to recognize individuals who have found or created a path of success for students to follow. In addition to recognizing these individuals, the assembly also serves to inspire students to achieve goals they set for themselves throughout their lives.
Jalen Brown serves as an assistant principal in another school district. He began his career as a middle school teacher in Maple Heights. He is also a member of the school board. Leon Turner is the music director for Gladys Knight, the world-renowned R&B singer and superstar. He has also worked for many successful artists. Purnell Sweeney is a Vice President /Project Manager Senior for Chase & Co. Phillip E. Beasley is a Logistics Readiness Officer with the United States Air Force-Air National Guard and Lead IT Acquisition Specialist for the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General.
The experience was humbling on many levels. First, I was the oldest member of the 2020 class of Pathfinders. Second, I was told to limit my remarks to 2 minutes. I spoke for ten. Finally, I had to capture and maintain the attention of about 1200 digital age students, who technically would be the same age as my grandchildren, if I had any. I figured the 100 or so adults in the audience would be polite and cordial.
I believe my remarks are encouraging to anyone stepping into the unknown or taking a leap of faith. Many of you are following your dream to be entrepreneurs. Some of you are wondering how your private practice or consultancy will thrive when there are many others in your area. First you must have the courage to start. Second you need to have confidence in your abilities and skills. Finally you need commitment to continue even when it gets hard.
Here is the video of my remarks It Takes Courage, Confidence and Commitment
“I work with social workers and hard-working professionals who want to be happy. I would love to hear from you.”
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