Life’s challenges are inevitable, but what if you could face them with an invincible spirit? In this episode of the “Owning Your Strength” series, our host and founder, Yoli Tamu explores five powerful ways to tap into your inner strength. Whether you’ve felt your inner powerhouse before or not, these practical strategies will help you build confidence and resilience, no matter what comes your way. Tune in to discover how to trust your journey, and remember that ‘this too shall pass’.⁠ ⁠ Yoli completed her M.Ed. in Cross-Cultural Teaching at National University, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at Howard University in Washington, DC. She has fused her thirst for creativity and entrepreneurship with 25 years as a resolute educator/motivator, podcast host, speaker, author, and recording artist. In August 2020, Yoil created The Back to Me Podcast: College and Beyond-a weekly podcast that she also hosts and serves as Executive Producer. In her weekly thirty-minute shows, Yoli seamlessly shares enlightening, engaging, and entertaining conversations that feature monthly themes and a wide array of special guests from different social classes and professions. Her arsenal of talents also includes developing a professional career as a songwriter/singer, live performer, independently publishing a book as an author, and working as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) coach. To learn more about Yoli’s college journey, check out her self-published book, “Back to Me: A Devotional Walk for the College Freshman Woman” and visit our website at TheBacktoMePodcast.com.⁠

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to take inventory of our inner strength as we prepare to navigate societal challenges with resilience and joy! In the first episode of our new series, “Owning Your Strength,” we are joined by Kwynn Townsend Riley, Director of the Office of Black Student Services at Loyola Marymount University. This award-winning poet, author and first-generation graduate shares how overcoming doubt and honoring her inner strength helped her forge an authentic community, nurture Black student pride, and support social justice on campus. Through her own poetry, cultural events and programs like the Umoja Alliance and The Learning Community, Kwyn reminds students they are not invisible and that joy and resilience are acts of resistance. In this dream job, find out how she encourages students to believe in their unique power, and lead by being their best, irreplaceable selves. Kwyn completed her M.S. in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University, and she received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio. This proud Southside Chicagoan is an interdisciplinary scholar-practitioner and artist. As a Black Queer Feminist, she envisions a world where we all are free. Kwyn is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, BYP100 (Black Youth Project 100), Chicago Scholars Associate Board and serves on the PAN Directorate Board for ACPA (American College Personnel Association). She is a decorated slam poet, author of two books of poetry and an award winning poetry album recipient. Kwyn has been recognized by CBS as a “history-maker” for her social justice work and organizing. She intends to help students, community and others to ignite a brighter world. To learn more about Kwyn and her work, visit her website at Kwynelizabeth.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.

This week for our “Ready, Set, Leap” series, our host and founder, Yoli Tamu welcomes the very student who first inspired her to begin serving college students years ago! In this episode, we meet Rwanda Carter, ASW, PPSC, Psychiatric Social Worker for LAUSD’s Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP). Born in Belize and raised in Watts, Rwanda shares how her parents’ sacrifices inspired her to uplift her community, build belonging, and lead with purpose. She recalls finding her voice through campus organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK)—programs that nurtured her drive to serve others. Now, as a mentor and advocate, Rwanda has come full circle, creating opportunities for high school students to experience growth, community wellness, and college exploration. Her powerful journey proves that when you invest in underserved communities, the results ripple across generations. Rwanda completed both her Master of Social Work and her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at California State University, Fullerton. She is a dedicated social worker committed to uplifting and serving communities with limited access to mental health resources. As the BSAP Psychiatric Social Worker, she promotes mental wellness among historically underserved students through representation, advocacy, and culturally responsive care. Her work centers on reducing stigma, expanding access to mental health services, and empowering Black youth through trauma-informed and identity-affirming interventions. By collaborating with educators, families, and community partners, Rwanda helps create safe, inclusive environments where students feel seen, heard, and supported. Her long-term goal is to influence mental health policy to expand equitable access to care and address systemic barriers impacting marginalized populations. To learn more about Rwanda and her work, visit her at LAUSD.org or connect with her on LinkedIn.

As part of our ‘Ready, Set, Leap’ series, we welcome back Feminine Energy Therapist and Master Energy Healing Yogi, Dr. Zerri Gross. In this week’s episode, Dr. Z reveals how to identify and balance your feminine and masculine energies to boost both self-awareness and social awareness. Discover how masculine energy—driven by production, action, and survival—helps you get things done, while feminine energy—rooted in presence, alignment, and supportive connection—encourages you to slow down, see the bigger picture, and grow sustainably. Learn why vulnerability is one of your greatest strengths and how embracing the “Be-Do-Have” mindset can elevate your planning, productivity, and personal development. Get ready to explore how to balance productivity with mindfulness so you can approach your academics, your relationships, and your goals from a place of true empowerment. Dr. Z completed her Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology and her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Argosy University. She also received her MA in Marriage and Family Therapy at University of Phoenix, Southern California Campus. Dr. Z is a 3x International Best-Selling Author, Speaker, and Retired Veteran but at her core, she’s a passionate advocate for helping women reclaim their power, embody their femininity, and create a holistically balanced life. As the founder of Greater Self LLC (a holistic wellness company) and Greater Self Therapy (a private psychotherapy practice), Dr. Z blends traditional therapy, alternative healing, and embodiment practices to support women, leaders, healers, and creatives in releasing overwhelm, perfectionism, compassion fatigue, and trauma responses.With over a decade as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she specializes in feminine energy healing, yoga, and somatic-based therapy, bridging the gap between mental health and holistic self-care. She is trauma-informed, Reiki-trained, and holds certifications in Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Yin, and Restorative yoga guiding others to reconnect with their bodies, release emotional weight, and step into the flow of empowered femininity. To learn more about Dr. Z, connect with her on IG @greaterself_dr.z or visit her website at GreaterSelf.org to get your FREE guide to unlock the power of self love.

This month, we introduce our ‘Ready, Set, Leap’ Series! Dr. Brunson from Spelman College opened the series with an inspiring episode for future educators. In this week’s episode, our founder and host, Yoli Tamu challenges us to embrace change and take bolder risks as we step into the next chapter with faith and intention. Quiet the inner critic, strengthen your focus, and build the resilience needed to rise when our principles and character are being tested. Yoli shares five powerful ways to move beyond comfort zones, prepare for the inevitable curveballs, and turn stumbles into opportunities to grow. Yoli completed her M.Ed. in Cross-Cultural Teaching at National University, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at Howard University in Washington, DC. She has fused her thirst for creativity and entrepreneurship with 25 years as a resolute educator/motivator, podcast host, speaker, author, and recording artist. In August 2020, Yoil created The Back to Me Podcast: College and Beyond-a weekly podcast that she also hosts and serves as Executive Producer. In her weekly thirty-minute shows, Yoli seamlessly shares enlightening, engaging, and entertaining conversations that feature monthly themes and a wide array of special guests from different social classes and professions. Her arsenal of talents also includes developing a professional career as a songwriter/singer, live performer, independently publishing a book as an author, and working as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) coach. To learn more about Yoli’s college journey, check out her self-published book, “Back to Me: A Devotional Walk for the College Freshman Woman” and visit our website at TheBacktoMePodcast.com.

The landscape of education is evolving in the midst of policy changes across the country. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Fatima Brunson, Tenure-track Assistant Professor of Education at Spelman College. Dr. Brunson shares how federal shifts are reshaping learning environments, disproportionately impacting students and educators. Despite this politically charged climate contributing to student and faculty stress, Dr. Brunson highlights the resilience of future educators committed to authentic transformation, justice, and culturally relevant pedagogy. Find out how she empowers students in her class to navigate funding losses, dispel policy myths, and craft student-led policy briefs of alternative solutions with potential for school adoption. Dr. Brunson completed her Doctorate of Philosophy in Policy Studies and Urban Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). As a scholar committed to advancing educational equity, her research examines how schools can strengthen teachers’ cultural knowledge and foster responsive teaching practices—critical components of culturally sustaining pedagogy. Her work focuses on urban schools where demographic divides between students and educators often exist, highlighting the conditions that support effective, equity-driven teaching. In partnership with school districts and informal learning spaces like science centers and children’s museums, Dr. Brunson explores how educators can work collectively to create humanizing, culturally affirming learning experiences. Through consulting and professional development, she supports organizations in building inclusive environments and enhancing student engagement. At the heart of her work is a deep commitment to ensuring that all children—especially students of color—receive the affirming, high-quality education they deserve. To learn more about Dr. Brunson. Work, visit her at Spelman.edu or connect with her on LinkedIn

Let’s talk about empathy! Do we really want to understand each other? As we wrap up Suicide Prevention Month, we welcome back Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Clifton Bright, Jr. for an honest dive into the challenges people face with their feelings in today's world. Clifton unpacks three distinct types of empathy to emphasize their value, especially in times of crisis, and guides us through the art of listening to understand rather than simply respond. Don’t miss the unforgettable story he shares about a survivor who jumped off a bridge and lived, illuminating what it truly takes to show up for someone in pain. We’ll explore the ways to recognize healthy and safe relationships that foster healing from trauma, and Clifton also shares how our podcast has impacted his practice over the past five years! Clifton completed his MS in Mental Health Counseling and Human Services at Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota and received his Bachelor of Science in Sociology at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. As an author, mentor, life coach, consultant and owner of Bright House Counseling, a private practice located in Harford County Maryland, he has worked with men from all walks of life and discovered that God has a specific purpose for every man. His passion is to help men strengthen their knowledge of their identity so they can function in their purpose. Clifton has been married for over 20 years and is a member of Spirit of Faith Christian Center in Baltimore Maryland. To learn more about Clifton and his work, connect with him on IG @clifton_bright_lcpc or email him at cliftonbrightjr@gmail.com.

As we continue to honor Suicide Prevention Month, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Alexander Dorsey returns to share practical insights on mental health, suicide prevention, and supporting college athletes. With six years in private practice, Alex discusses how to recognize warning signs of suicidal thoughts in yourself, friends, and loved ones while introducing the Stanley-Brown Safety Plan as a tool for staying safe during moments of crisis. We also explore how self-care, body awareness, and daily wellness practices can reduce the risk of suicidal ideation—offering guidance, encouragement, and a reminder that you are valuable, you are needed, and you are not alone.⁠ ⁠ Alex completed his MA in Mental Health Counseling, along with his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. He works with children, adolescents and adults to address their emotional needs. Alex specializes in working with clients experiencing concerns related to depression and trauma. He believes that teaching clients how to process and cope with their emotions allows them to flourish in life. Alex also owns Mending Minds Professional Clinical Counseling, a private practice that caters to African American males of all ages. If you need immediate assistance, be sure to call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for support. To learn more about Alex and his work, connect with him on IG @alexdorseylpcc or visit his website at AlexDorseyLPCC.com.

School is back in session, and you may be feeling that familiar wave of overwhelm. So, how are you managing your stress? In today's episode, we are joined by Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist, Samantha Tubbs-Crews, who shares actionable steps for evaluating "how big is your situation?"—so you can tackle challenges without spiraling into panic, even when grades and goals feel daunting. Find out how small choices today shape your future well-being as we dig into the risks of using alcohol or drugs for stress relief. Get ready to start the year with confidence and take your next step toward a healthier school year. Ms. Tubbs-Crews completed her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and she received her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science and Psychology at National Louis University. With over 30 years in the mental health field and 25 years in private practice, Ms. Tubbs-Crews holds various advanced certifications and she has worked with college students over the span of her career to help them manage their time more effectively, develop better study habits, and minimize test anxiety. She enjoys facilitating seminars/workshops focusing on Stress Management, Effective Communication Skills, Boundary Setting, and Work-Personal Life Balance. She is also the author of her new book, ‘How To Kick The “S” Out of Stress!’ and she has received awards and recognition for Outstanding Women in the Community. She has also been featured in the Women’s Journal and USA News in recognition of her work as a therapist and author. To learn more about Ms. Tubbs-Crews, connect with her on IG @samanthalmhc or visit her website at Empoweredmindz.com.⁠ ⁠

We’re back and we’re celebrating 5 years of empowering incoming college students and postgraduates with the support of some amazing experts in mental health and career development. For this milestone episode, our host and founder, Yoli Tamu shares her personal college experience and five key ways to maintain focus on your journey as you start the school year. If you’ve ever asked, “Who am I now?” or “How do I keep going when everything feels uncertain?” this episode is a compassionate invitation to find your voice, embrace resilience, and chart a new course toward hope and healing. Yoli completed her M.Ed. in Cross-Cultural Teaching at National University, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at Howard University in Washington, DC. She has fused her thirst for creativity and entrepreneurship with 25 years as a resolute educator/motivator, podcast host, speaker, author, and recording artist. In August 2020, Yoil created The Back to Me Podcast: College and Beyond-a weekly podcast that she also hosts and serves as Executive Producer. In her weekly thirty-minute shows, Yoli seamlessly shares enlightening, engaging, and entertaining conversations that feature monthly themes and a wide array of special guests from different social classes and professions. Her arsenal of talents also includes developing a professional career as a songwriter/singer, live performer, independently publishing a book as an author, and working as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) coach. To learn more about Yoli’s college journey, check out her self-published book, “Back to Me: A Devotional Walk for the College Freshman Woman” and visit our website at TheBacktoMePodcast.com.⁠

“The world needs more artists” – and we couldn’t agree more! For our final episode of Mental Health Awareness Month, we are joined by Laurel Donley, Vice Provost of Student Affairs at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Ms. Donley brings a unique perspective, blending her background in social work with her experience in higher education by sharing how she and her team are building a true culture of care on campus - for both students and staff. Find out why rest is essential for creativity and how to handle feedback in a way that helps you grow as an artist and as a person. Whether you dream of a career in the arts or simply want to find balance in your busy life, you will be inspired to make a lasting impact in your community. Ms. Donley is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Organizational Learning and Leadership at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was named Vice Provost and Dean for Student Affairs at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) in July 2023, following ten years of service in Student Affairs at UNCSA and more than two decades of experience in both academic and student affairs roles. Prior to her current role, she served as Assistant Dean of Student Development and Director of High School Life, overseeing areas including high school life, residence life, new student orientation, student engagement, student assistance and support (case management), and the Fitness Center. As a recognized leader in student mental health, Ms. Donley has served on the UNC System Mental Health Task Force and was a panelist for the UNC Board of Governors’ initiative on Collegiate Mental Health: Current Trends and Challenges. She is a founding member of the Higher Education Case Managers Association (HECMA) in 2011, and served as its president from 2018 to 2020. To learn more about Ms. Donley and her work, visit her at UNCSA.edu or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Did you know Black Americans are twice as likely to have a stroke-sometimes as early as age 22? In honor of Mental Health and Stroke Awareness Month, we welcome Dr. Christine Cosby-Gaither, Visionary Founder and Executive Director of A Stroke of Grace, to discuss how her nonprofit supports Black stroke survivors and their families. Find out how to spot stroke symptoms early using the B.E. F.A.S.T. Method and learn practical steps to ‘build a new normal’ after a stroke. Protect yourself and your loved ones. Dr. Cosby-Gaither completed both her Doctorate of Education and MS in Business Communication at Spaulding University in Louisville, Kentucky, and she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Northern Kentucky University. After surviving a life-changing stroke in 2019, she turned her pain into purpose — creating trauma-informed courses, healing workbooks, and the KNOW THE SIGNS Stroke Prevention Pocket Guide to empower and educate communities. She also serves as Director of Black Health Equity at Simmons College of Kentucky (the nation’s 107th Historically Black College and University), where she leads efforts to address systemic health disparities. Dr. Cosby-Gaither is the author of “Beyond the Stroke: A Survivor’s Quest for Courage” and a contributing author in the anthology “Coaching Gurus”, where her chapter ‘Strength and Courage’ shares her powerful story. To learn more about Dr. Cosby-Gaither and her work, connect with her IG @astrokeofgrace or visit her website at AStrokeofGrace.org.

Graduation season is here! Excitement is in the air as students prepare for the next chapter, but for many, this transition brings a mix of anticipation and anxiety. As students face uncertainty about their future, mental health remains a top concern. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re joined by Joshua Mayfield, Interim Program Director of the Resilience in Your Student Experience (RISE) Center at UCLA. With a background in pastoral care and counseling, Joshua shares practical insights on supporting student wellness and overcoming imposter syndrome. He also explores the crucial difference between self-care and self-soothing, and shares how you can make sure your habits are truly helping you thrive. ⁠ Joshua completed his Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry with an emphasis in Pastoral Care and Counseling at Boston College in Massachusetts. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Marketing at Loyola Marymount University. Born and raised in Long Beach, California, he has always been passionate about people, community, and the ways in which we “do life together”. Seeking more opportunity to serve college students and work in the field of mental health, Joshua gladly accepted a position at RISE where he is so happy to continue community building and walking with college students. To learn more about Joshua and his work, connect with him on IG @risecenterucla or visit his website at RISECenter.ucla.edu.

Thinking about homeownership or investing in real estate while still in college? Join us as we wrap up Financial Literacy Month with Brady Thomas, Senior Mortgage Advisor at LaSalle Mortgage Services. Mr. Thomas reveals three key strategies to qualify for a mortgage. He explains why building your credit early matters and shares tips on managing student loans as a foundation for future home buying. Discover what it means to “live the mortgage payment” and how you can start your real estate journey as a student.⁠ ⁠ As one of the Top 100 Mortgage Originators in the U.S. since 2015, Mr. Thomas brings a proven track record of excellence. He leads Team Thomas – a hand-picked group of professionals (including dedicated loan managers and processors) who share his passion for stellar customer service. Together, they make the loan process smooth and stress-free. Beyond the numbers, Mr. Thomas is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact. For each loan closed, he donates $250 to a charity of his client’s choice, giving deeper meaning to home financing. He also invests in educating the community – through free homebuyer workshops, a weekly “3 Things in 3 Minutes” real estate trends newsletter, and active social media channels where he demystifies mortgage topics in plain English. Clients and real estate partners often cite his integrity, warmth, and dedication as the reasons they refer their friends and family to him. To learn more about Mr. Thomas and his work, connect with him on IG @peptalkmortgage or visit his website at LaSalleMortgage.com.

“Slow and steady wins the race” – truer words were never spoken when you start investing in yourself. It’s Financial Literacy Month and it’s the perfect time to figure out how to make your dreams a reality! This week, we are joined by Christopher Cobb, Financial Strategist and Founder of The Chosen Agency. This retired corporate insurance agent launched his own brokerage and has amassed over 6 million views on TikTok. Find out how to maximize your current income – yes, even your part time job – and see how the insurance industry can help compliment your lifestyle. ⁠ Mr. Cobb completed his Bachelor of Science in Sports Management at The University of Georgia. As the youngest of three in a family of educators from Hartwell, Georgia, he began his career as an underwriter at Travelers Insurance. Corporate life had always been the dream, but he quickly realized he was more drawn to people than paperwork. As a side hustle in 2018, he received his life insurance license and discovered his passion for both the industry and the business. By 2020, he took the leap and launched the Chosen Agency full-time. Since then, he has helped thousands of families on their path to financial freedom and he has mentored agents across the country. To learn more about Mr. Cobb and his work, connect with him on IG @chriscobb_chosen or visit him on LinkedIn.⁠

As we continue celebrating Financial Literacy Month, it is important to consider just how you plan to be more charitable in your giving. This week, we are joined by TeeJ Mercer, Founder of Move-In Day Mafia. TeeJ has transformed the lives of HBCU students who have aged out of foster care or face financial hardships by providing dorm makeovers and four years of monthly care packages. During the pandemic, her commitment to charitable giving allowed her to raise over $1 million in cash and prizes through virtual Bingo games to celebrate HBCU graduates. Known as the “World’s Greatest Hugger,” TeeJ’s infectious joy and generosity inspire many to believe in miracles and take action for extraordinary impact. Find out how you can support her mission and apply to receive a customized dorm room design and monthly care package courtesy of Move-In Day Mafia. ⁠ As a proud Howard University Alumna, TeeJ is a powerhouse of storytelling and philanthropy, whose mission to create miracles has touched countless lives. With nearly three decades of Hollywood experience, her creative genius shines in blockbuster hits like Shrek, Cars, The Incredibles, and Shaft, as well as popular TV shows such as The Bachelor and Bar Rescue. Her ability to craft compelling narratives earned her recognition from icons like Samuel L. Jackson, who famously called her a "MF-ing cheerleader" for her boundless energy. Now, TeeJ channels her storytelling expertise into empowering authors and experts to book media appearances without hiring publicists. To learn more about TeeJ and her work, connect with her on IG @moveindaymafia and be sure to visit her website at MoveInDayMafia.org to apply for your supplemental scholarship or donate to “Adopt a Scholar”.

It’s Tax Season and Financial Literacy Month! How effectively are you managing your monthly expenses and making smart investment decisions? This week, we’re thrilled to welcome back Shelby Patrice, Financial Literacy Educator and Founder of Budget University. Ms. Patrice shares how students choose their favorite stocks and explore concepts like assets and liabilities through popular rap songs. As Gen Zers and young entrepreneurs, learn how to master what Ms. Patrice calls “the cheat code” to financial success - all while maintaining a steady job.⁠ Ms. Patrice completed her Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration at Kentucky State University. She founded Budget University in 2020 and the program was fully accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) within a year. She was featured on ⁠NBC Dallas News, won a $10,000 sponsorship from the Dallas Mavericks, and became a member of Engage Dallas. Ms. Patrice built her learning management system (LMS) and online App from the ground up and has accrued over 2,000 users. Budget University is now a featured program at Kentucky State University as a Freshman Experience course. As the former Miss Texas US 2016 and adoptee with a platform for Adoption and Foster care, she has taken the financial literacy pillar to the next level. To learn more about Ms. Patrice and her work, connect with her on IG @budgetuniversity and visit her website at BudgetUniversityOnline.com.⁠

As Women's History Month comes to a close, join our host and founder, Yoli Tamu, in celebrating her most inspirational mentor! This week features Ka-Ron Brown Lehman, Artistic Director of Lehman Danceworks, Inc. and Retired Modern Dance Instructor. "Dancing Mama," as she’s affectionately known to her students, is a legendary dancer, teacher, choreographer, artistic director, and mother of three, who has made significant contributions to the world of dance and the performing arts. She shares her secrets to cultivating excellence, instilling the value of hard work, and fostering the power of self-belief through dance! Discover how she honors legendary dancers of the past and present and how you, too, can create a legacy that will always be remembered. Mrs. Lehman is a renowned figure in the dance world with a career spanning over five decades. As the former Artistic Director of the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts Dance Department, she has left an indelible mark on dance education. Her impressive resume includes performances on Broadway as a featured dancer and Associate Choreographer, as well as in film and television specials, alongside artists like Ben Vereen, Paula Kelly, Flip Wilson, Richard Pryor and Aretha Franklin. And, yes, she's that dancer in the video "Let's Groove Tonight" by Earth, Wind & Fire! Her teaching experience as a Master Modern Instructor encompasses prestigious institutions such as Cincinatti Ballet Academy, Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, and Northern Kentucky University, as well as numerous master classes and workshops across the United States and internationally. Her dedication to the arts has earned her several accolades, including the American Legion Award, the American Choreography & Educator Award, and a Distinguished Teacher Award from the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. Mrs. Lehman’s legacy in dance education and performance continues to inspire new generations of dancers and artists, even after her retirement from modern dance instruction in 2020. To learn more about Mrs. Lehman and her work, connect with her on Facebook.

In celebration of International Women's Day, we were honored to return to Coppin State University at the invitation of Dr. James Stewart, Associate Vice President for Student Development and Achievement. We hosted a special live event to recognize four extraordinary women in higher education, affectionately known as "Coppin's Aunties." This week, we are joined by Ms. Loretta Mask Campbell, Mrs. Vanessa Russell, Dr. Yolanda Savoy, and Dr. Tenyo Pearl. Discover how these remarkable women are transforming the lives of countless students who seek them out for guidance in career development, personal branding, and nonprofit leadership, ultimately building their confidence and driving community engagement. Loretta Mask Campbell, MALS is the Director of Student Experience and she is an organized, motivated professional with more than 20 years in the education arena. She’s passionate about assisting students with realizing their potential and becoming their best self. She’s a successful program manager that has linked resources to form collaborative partnerships yielding success for both partners. She has experience within multiple educational settings, including elementary and higher education. She is an effective outreach professional with the ability to cultivate relationships with community members and stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the proud mother of two young adult children, son, Jalen and daughter Jillian. Vanessa K. Russell, M.A. is the Speech Communications and Freshman Seminar Professor. She is also an Emmy Award-Winning Producer, former television news reporter & radio morning show co-host. With over 20 years' experience in broadcasting, she has covered major news stories across the nation, including one abroad - in Cape Town, South Africa; where she reported on the Post-Apartheid era of education in the country, after the release & presidency of the late President Nelson Mandela. Mrs. Russell has taught at Coppin State University since 2016. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and holds a Master's in Human Services & Counseling from Liberty University, and a Bachelor's in Mass Communications from the University of South Florida. She's a wife, and proud mom to a daughter (graduating college senior) and son (a college junior)! Dr. Yolanda N. Savoy is the Interim Chairperson and Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Sciences. Her scholarship examines the complex interplay between health disparities, behavioral factors, and safety outcomes among underserved populations. Her research develops culturally informed interventions that target social determinants of health across developmental stages, with particular attention to vulnerable groups experiencing systemic inequities. Dr. Savoy's academic endeavors are focused on enhancing health outcomes for both urban and rural communities, particularly for marginalized and underrepresented populations. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and has been instrumental in leading health initiatives that promote equitable access to healthcare and foster healthier communities.⁠ Dr. Tenyo Pearl is the Campus Director for the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Pearl is passionate about preparing the next generation of nonprofit leaders, change agents, and advocates. Mentorship is at the heart of her work, shaping how she teaches and supports emerging nonprofit professionals. She believes that effective leadership is built on integrity, service, and community engagement. As a proud “campus auntie”, she is honored to guide and uplift Next Gen leaders, offering wisdom, encouragement, and mentorship. Dr. Pearl actively engages students in a number of community-focused initiatives and service-learning activities. One of her signature programs is the annual Hip-Hop Day of Service, held on the third Saturday in November, aligning with Youth Homelessness Awareness Month and Hip-Hop History Month. She embraces hip-hop as a clarion call for action and service, encouraging students to use their voices and talents to create meaningful change in their communities. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Special thanks to Coppin’s fabulous Aunties, Dr. James Stewart, and this incredible university for another powerful experience. To learn more about Coppin State University, connect on IG @thecoppinroom or visit Coppin.edu.

As we continue to celebrate amazing women for Women’s History Month, we invite back Dr. LaToya René Robertson, Associate Director of Community Values and Student Conduct at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. Dr. Robertson is working on the second edition to her popular book, “The College Cheat Sheet”. She shares how she helps students navigate conflicts on campus, while helping them manage personal accountability. Dr. Robertson is also a Management Consultant, who facilitates a Music Business Essentials course. Find out how to create, protect and monetize your creativity as you consider a career pursuit in entrepreneurship.⁠ ⁠ Dr. Robertson completed both her Doctorate of Philosophy and MA in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Music Business at Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina. As an author, implicit bias researcher, businesswoman, and educator, Dr. Robertson’s background is filled with unique and seemingly unrelated experiences; however, each experience perfectly feeds into her ability to effectively educate and consult. She has spoken at a TEDx Conference, the NASPA Multicultural Institute, contributed to virtual panels regarding equity, and the Hawai’i International Conference of Education. Her work with universities and private companies has helped to close gaps in inefficient operations, increased retention, and create solutions that engaged with all stakeholders. To learn more about her work, connect with her on IG @iamlatoyarene, @thecollegecheatsheet or visit her on LinkedIn.