Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Her Eminence Dr. Eloisa Crawley – Bonaparte. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Her Eminence Dr. Eloisa , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.
Growing up in a strict Christian home, my parents instilled in me the values of morality, education, and excellence. My mother, a remarkable woman, wore many hats as an entrepreneur, registered nurse, and pastor. My father was a New York State Judge, professor, and pastor. Their commitment to their professions and faith provided a strong foundation for my development.
One of the core lessons they imparted was the importance of giving more than receiving and serving others for the betterment of mankind. This principle shaped not only my character but also my career path.
I remember a particular instance from my childhood when my parents organized a community outreach program through our church. They involved me in every step, from planning to execution. This experience taught me the value of hard work and the joy that comes from serving others. It was not just about charity; it was about making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Their emphasis on education was another cornerstone of my upbringing. Excellence was not merely encouraged; it was expected. Whether it was my father’s discussions about justice and ethics or my mother’s stories of resilience and compassion in healthcare, they inspired me to pursue knowledge with passion and integrity.
These lessons have profoundly impacted my life and career. The drive for excellence and a heart for service have been guiding forces in my professional journey. I strive to embody the values they lived by, ensuring that my work contributes positively to society.
In essence, my parents did not just teach me; they showed me through their lives. Their legacy is one of dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to the greater good, and it continues to inspire me every day.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a 6th generation preacher and an ordained clergy person, deeply committed to guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys and supporting them through life’s challenges. My life’s work has been dedicated to serving others, and I am honored to have made history in the United States as the first female consecrated Archbishop in the Protestant Faith.
As the presiding prelate of Temple of The Good Shepherd Ministries Worldwide, I lead an international ministry that embraces diversity, with churches of various denominations and clergy from all races, ethnicities, and cultures across over 200 countries. This global ministry is a testament to my belief in unity and inclusivity.
Beyond my ecclesiastical duties, I am a retired educator. My career began in the NYC school system, eventually leading me to become a professor and later a university dean. Education has always been a passion of mine, and I cherish the impact I have made on countless students over the years.
I also serve as the chairwoman of the board for my family’s global billion-dollar enterprise, where I apply my leadership skills to drive innovation and growth.
One of my proudest achievements is serving as a Vietnam War Veteran. As a Chief Master Sergeant in the Air Force, I had the honor of flying planes during the war and returning home safely. This experience instilled in me a profound sense of duty and resilience.
Through all these roles, my mission remains to inspire and uplift those around me. I strive to be a beacon of hope and strength, encouraging others to overcome their obstacles and reach their fullest potential.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
During my journey serving in the military as a female and person of color, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience. Flying planes in the Vietnam War wasn’t just about mastering the skies; it was about breaking barriers and overcoming the doubts of those who couldn’t see past my gender or ethnicity. Every mission was a testament to my determination and courage, proving that strength knows no bounds.
Through adversity, I found my true capabilities, and each challenge only fueled my resolve to rise above expectations. Let my story be a reminder that resilience is not just enduring hardships, but thriving despite them. We all have the power to soar beyond limitations and inspire others to do the same.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
In a world that seems to glorify the grind, I once wore my busyness like a badge of honor. The idea that working nonstop was a testament to my dedication and ambition was deeply ingrained in me. But as the days blurred into nights and the weeks into months, I realized this mindset was not a sustainable path to fulfillment.
The lesson I had to unlearn was simple yet profound: working nonstop without taking quality time with family is not a measure of success. This realization came at a pivotal moment in my life when I noticed that, despite my professional accomplishments, something essential was missing—meaningful connections with the people I love.
The backstory begins with a typical day in my life, packed with meetings, deadlines, and endless to-do lists. My family was always supportive, but I could feel the subtle shifts in our relationships. Missed dinners, postponed plans, and the constant preoccupation with work began to take their toll.
One evening, as I sat at my desk long after everyone else had gone to bed, it hit me. I was chasing an illusion of success, neglecting the very things that truly mattered. My family deserved more than fleeting moments; they deserved my presence, my attention, and my love.
From that moment, I made a conscious decision to change. I started by setting boundaries—designating specific times for work and for family. I learned to say “no” to tasks that could wait and “yes” to impromptu family adventures. I began to cherish the laughter at the dinner table and the simple joy of being present in the moment.
Unlearning the habit of relentless work was not easy, but it was necessary. It taught me that true success is not measured by hours logged or projects completed, but by the quality of relationships and the memories we create with our loved ones.
I share this journey in the hope of inspiring others to make intelligent choices about where they invest their time and energy. Let’s redefine success, not by the number of tasks we accomplish, but by the depth of our connections and the joy we find in the company of those who matter most.
Embrace the art of unlearning. Choose family, choose love, and choose a life where happiness is not a goal, but a daily practice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://totgsmw.org
- Facebook: Mother Eloisa Crawley- Bonaparte
