Who you are and what you do here at Cumming?

I am the operations manager for Fort Point Project Management, a Cumming Company located in Boston, MA. My role is to support and enhance the overall success of the company. Typically, that includes developing business strategies for resources and projects, onboarding new employees, overseeing the office needs and acting as the liaison between departments, such as Legal, Accounting, Marketing HR, Admin, etc. No single day or week is the same. My favorite part is being the point of contact for support among everyone in the Boston region; I like being able to connect with everyone.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month has the utmost significance in my life. I grew up in a predominately white neighborhood, where I did not see many people of color, and where there wasn’t much emphasis on the history of black people in the education system, until Black History Month. Although unfortunate, I always looked forward to that time of year because I was able to see all of the amazing accomplishments that people – who looked just like me – made that impacted the world in a significant way. It inspired me to want to be as great as them.

What Black historical figure do you most admire and why?

I am a big fan of Oprah Winfrey. When I was a kid, I used to rush home to watch her talk show. I loved how unbiased she was in her opinions and always has a diverse group of guests to speak on various topics and issues. Also, she is currently the wealthiest African-American woman in the U.S. and, the greatest black philanthropist in American history. Who wouldn’t aspire to be like her?

What do you think is most important to highlight about the celebration of black history month and why? (Culture, historical events, people, contributions to society, etc.)

I don’t think there is anything most important to highlight;  they all have equal importance to me. The objective of Black History Month is to shine a light on black excellence and the black experience that wouldn’t typically get the spotlight it deserves. However, I find it important for everyone to take what they learn this month and place importance on it for themselves. This is a time to learn, reflect and grow, so we are a step closer to a more diverse, equitable and inclusive world.