• - Who was a female mentor or role model who played a key role in your development? How did she inspire you?

My undergraduate research advisor, Dr. Kay Obendorf played an instrumental role in my professional and personal development. Not only did I publish my first peer-reviewed, first-authored journal article with her as an undergraduate, Dr. Obendorf was the first professor to see something in me when I was a first-year student, to invite me to join her research lab when I knew nothing about research. Little did I know that was the beginning of a three-decade-long-and-counting mentoring relationship that propelled me into graduate studies and more. I am very grateful I still pick her brain and get to visit her when she is in California during winter. I only learnt at her retirement celebration 9 years ago that she overcame great adversities in her physical disability as well as being a female physical chemist in the seventies. In her winsome and unassuming way, she built a prolific research program, mentored countless students, earned lifetime awards, served as department chair, senior associate dean, and was asked to return as an administrator in her retirement. Through the years, I must have observed her and subconsciously stored away many tips. Through her embodiment of a lifelong learner and a charitable scholar, I am indebted to Dr. Obendorf's guidance, investment and support through the years. 

• Who is a woman (historical or contemporary) who inspires you, and why?

Marie Curie remains an inspiration to me. Curie is immensely brilliant, and widely known to be the only scientist (and female) to be awarded two Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics 1903, Chemistry 1911). Yet what I admire the most about Marie Curie is her prioritized commitment to use scientific research for public good and championed its utility. For instance, her discovery and understanding of radioactive substances allowed Curie to develop radiological cars that served as mobile clinics to provide X-ray for injured soldiers during World War I. Science and history often intersect in intricate and profound ways. This is one example of how the mobile X-ray cars alleviated the diagnoses and treatments of soldiers and civilians alike. Curie was also tireless in educating nurses on radium treatment in hospitals. As a learner of science, I hope to help others see "that science has great beauty", and to bring forth the true purpose of knowledge for the greater good.

• What role do you think mentorship plays in empowering women and girls?

In 2007, I had the privilege of joining Heart to Heart, the female spiritual mentoring program under the direction of its founder, the late Gladys Wilson. Gladys, in her magical ways, paired me with a sophomore nursing student, Holly Hallmark ('10, MDiv '13). As a mom with young kids, the only time I could meet weekly with Holly was during my kids' naptime. Those times of prayers and studying the Bible together transformed both of our faith in Christ and laid the foundation of our deep friendship. 18 years later with many more mentoring relationships since I met Holly, I still cherish hearing how God speaks to young women, how He forms our hearts and answers our prayers. It is an absolute honour to walk with young women and to see their transformation (metamorphoō in Romans 12:2) that only God could bring. 

• What is a piece of advice from a mentor or elder in the Black community that has stayed with you?

A gentleman at my old church once told me, "The time is going to pass...what are you going to do with it?" That advice has stuck with me. So much so, I always tell my kids the same thing. It’s a reminder that time keeps moving, whether we’re ready or not. It challenges us to stop waiting for the perfect moment and start walking in purpose, trusting that God will guide the way.

• Can you share a personal tradition or cultural experience that has shaped your outlook?

In my family, every gathering whether it's a holiday, birthday, or just a random get-together, always turns into a musical experience. We’re a gospel family, so somehow, we find a way to turn almost any song into a gospel song. Whether it’s a full jam session, or harmonizing out of nowhere, music is always part of the celebration. And it’s not just the adults, all the kids join in too. Passing down that love for music and faith through those moments means everything to me.

• How can we support and uplift Black voices, leaders, and culture within our APU community, beyond just one month?

We can support Black voices and leaders by being intentional about creating inclusive spaces for conversation, listening to learn, not to respond, and inviting Black faculty, staff, and students to lead initiatives throughout the year. It's about partnering with existing groups and organizations on campus, like BFSAA, to collaborate and amplify these voices. It’s also important to recognize and celebrate Black culture in academics, arts, and leadership in a way that becomes part of the campus culture, not just an event on a calendar. We need to move beyond performative actions and into a space of authentic engagement and advocacy.

• What brings you joy when you reflect on Black culture and history?

What brings me joy is how creative and resilient we are. No matter what, we’ve found ways to turn pain into power and struggles into something beautiful. Our music, our style, our humor, and our deep-rooted faith all reflect that. There’s something so special about how we create, inspire, and lift each other up. It makes me extremely proud to be part of this culture and this story.

• How can we support and uplift Black voices, leaders, and culture within our APU community, beyond just one month?

Black culture—our language, style, music, and traditions—has deep roots that deserve to be honored always, not just when it’s trendy. We define ourselves, and we should be unapologetically proud of who we are and the legacy we come from. True community is built on understanding, and I believe that embracing what unites us can foster a greater sense of unity worldwide.

• How can we encourage all people to learn, value, and carry forward the legacy of Black culture and history?

Encouraging deeper learning about Black history and culture; not just the struggles but the innovations, contributions, and triumphs—helps dismantle stereotypes and fosters a more inclusive environment.

• What brings you joy when you reflect on Black culture and history?

Reflecting on Black culture and history fills me with pride because of the perseverance, faith, and countless contributions that continue to shape and inspire society.

"Growing up around APU, with my dad having played baseball here and now working at the university, I always felt a strong connection. I knew I wanted to be part of this community."

"Joining the soccer program at APU provided me with a sense of belonging and introduced me to a supportive group of friends that have made my college experience truly rewarding."

"The biggest thing that I've learned being here at APU with my faith in general is just being intentional with it. So whether that's on the field, using and thinking about my gifts as glorifying the Lord, but also off the field and being intentional with relationships"

Celebrating the Voices of the Hispanic and Latin American Community at APU. Discover the stories of APU staff and students, and dive into a curated playlist that highlights artists from Spain, Latin America, and beyond. — September 2024.