How She influenced me.

In recognition of Black History month, I wanted to share how these amazing women have (and continue to) influence me in my actions and words each and every day.

Born and raised in southern, West Virginia I begin with recognition of an honored NASA mathematician, Katherine Johnson. She passed away at the age of 101 in 2020 but her footprint was not only in space, but in my head and my heart. Johnson was often quoted, "Like what you do, and then you will do your best.” I wasn't great in math, nor did I put someone in orbit, but she taught me to have passion and purpose and it's not just okay, but expected to push boundaries and break barriers.

As an avid reader and writer, I was drawn to writings from Maya Angelou. An American poet and civil rights activist she received dozens of awards and over 50 honorary degrees. Referred to as a Renaissance woman, Angelou was confident, fierce and resilient. Admiring quotes, I tend to lean on her words, "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."

With the television industry still largely dominated by men, Shonda Rhimes' success is a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration, not just for women in the television industry but for women in male-dominated industries. Rhimes is one of the most successful screenwriter/director/producers working in the television business and has great advice for all of us to stop dreaming and start acting. From her Dartmouth commencement speech she stated, "Dreams are lovely. But they are just dreams. Fleeting, ephemeral, pretty. But dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It's hard work that makes things happen. It's hard work that creates change." 

Lastly, speaking of change I would be remiss not to acknowledge the result of our 2020 election. When addressing supporters Vice President Kamala Harris spoke about the historic nature of her win. "Protecting our democracy takes struggle, it takes sacrifice," she said, "but there is joy in it. There is progress because we the people have the power to build a better future."

When I think of the influential women in my life including my mother, my grandmother, family, friends and colleagues - I know they have struggled, sacrificed and brought me joy. Remember, progress is better than perfection.

Who in your life has made a similar impact for you?

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