We asked some of the brightest folks from within the community to reflect back on their days in school and to share with us a story of when they learned a particularly important or impactful lesson. We’ve shared highlights below.

WInnie Rodgers

When I found roller derby, it was one of the first times I had ever failed at anything. I could not roller skate. I went roller skating 2-3 times a week for 6 months before I even had the chance to try out, and when I did I was the last one to be picked for the draft. I didn’t let that stop my growth and I worked my way from last draft pick, to captain, and ultimately was the Head Coach for the Lowcountry Highrollers in Charleston. Read more>>

PHANTASHIA JOHNSON

My name is Phantashia Johnson, and I am the owner of The Aya Emporium LLC. I create handcrafted apparel and accessories. I learn how to sew in a “career center” program in high school. For half a day junior/ senior year and I spent time learning about creating garments and design illustrations. Although I have always had a love for doodling dresses, I had never thought of a career as a designer. Read more>>

Jenna Santorelli Markl

The instruction that stands out the most from all forms of training, whether I always liked it or not, I respected. It was while in culinary school, one of the Chefs introduced themselves saying that they INTENDED to yell at each of us throughout the course. I was shocked. An adult admitting they would be “mean” to their new students seemed like an interesting concept to say the least. However, they proceeded to talk to us with sincerity and explained why they used this method before class got underway. Read more>>

Sonya McCoy-Wilson

In 2016, I chose the Doctor of Education in Learning, Leadership, and Organization Development at the University of Georgia because the program was designed for leaders who were positioned to lead change within their organizations. This was exactly my purpose. Read more>>