simmons college little black book 2011
TRANSCRIPT
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BLACK BOOKLITTLECLASS of2
Arianne Napier
Julissa Jansen-Morales
LaPorscha Hardmon
Mavis Achiaa Ofori
Natashia Thomas
Nicole Brown
Sabeta Jarba
Venchele Saint Dic
HE RENAISSANCE WOMAN
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LITTLE
BOOK
CLASS of2011
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December 1st, 2010, was the 55th anniversary of the
bus ride that took Montgomery, Alabama by storm. On
that day, Rosa Parks, then 42, refused to obey bus
driver James Blake's order that she give up her seat to
make room for a white passenger. Her small move of
activism started the 381-day bus strike. Little did either
party know that the incident would become a fire under
the civil rights movement.
We asked each senior to describe a moment she
did a small act that had a large impact during her
life or what she plans on doing.
And they replied My Rosa Parks moment was
or will be
TheRenaissanceWoman
Classof2
011
To the Class of 2011
Congratulations on this magnificent academic achievement!
Your college tenure has been marked by numerous historical
events in this country. In 2007, Nancy Pelosi became the firstwoman speaker of the House. In 2008, Barack Obama, of African
descent, was elected the president of the United States. In 2009,
Judge Sonia Sotomayor becomes the first Latina to sit on the
United States Supreme Court. In 2010, we marked the 55th
anniversary of Rosa Parkss courageous sit that helped launch
the modern civil rights movement. In 2011 you will receive a
college degree that will be integral to the success of your future
endeavors. What will mark the coming years for you?
An African-American proverb states that God makes three
requests of his children: do the best you can, where you are, with
what you have, now. I encourage you to embrace the life lessons
you have learned as an individual and those that we have learned
together as a community and society. Live life passionately and b
an active participant in your life and the lives of others.
Remember that success is connected to action. Nurture your spiri
and respect your gifts and talents. Share your light with others an
it will reflect back on you. I wish you much deserved success as
you join a legacy of women who have and continue to make the
power of their presence known.
Be Blessed,
LisaLisa Smith-McQueen
Assistant Dean for Student Life, Multicultural Affairs & Adu
Student Servic
My Rosa Parks moment will be...
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LITTLE
BOOK
Historically, the Little Black Book has played an important role in affirming the presence and
power of women of color of Simmons College. With every graduating class of powerful women
of color, a new legacy is created. Your legacy begins now.
Simmons women are legendary for their commitment, compassion, and support of each other
and of the community they are in. Draw inspiration from not only the successful alum around
the world, but also from one another. You will be remembered for your compassion, strength,
creativity and persistence.
Little Black Book is a remembrance of the experiences that each senior has once leaving their
undergraduate career and pursuing a new path in life.
To the class of 2011, my big sistahs, CONGRATS! We are all very proud and hopeful for each
and every one of you.
Best of luck,
Bianca Maxwell Harris
Sister of Little Black Book 11
Class of 2012
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Letter from BSO
Vice President
Tatiana Johnson
To the Successful SimmonsWomen of Color,
You are wonderful,
beautiful and full of
inspiration. You are going to
be the bosses, leaders,
creators, change makers in
this world. Thank you in
advance for your success. Asyou go forward in this
journey remember Simmons
and the many people you
have touched. Acknowledge
that you have done so many
great things already, such
as graduating from college
and making great
connections to those around
you. Remain confident,
humble, proud and strong as
you continue forward. I am
so proud to have connected
with such amazing sisters
and friends, and to see you
complete great things in
your career, community and
relationships. I am honored
to write a letter to you, and
I am pray positive energy
follows you, wherever you
go.
Love,
Tatiana
Letter from President Drinan
Dear Graduates,
You have made the full journey -- soon you will be accomplished alumnae of Simmons
College! We welcome you warmly to the proud community of women who have walked
before you, striving as you have, pushing and pulling as you have, and finally soaring to
the height of their capacity as you have. Unless you have come through all the tests and
trials, it is impossible to savor the success.
Now in many ways you start over again -- this time, however, with a badge of honor
that communicates how well you have spent the past four years preparing yourselves.
A Simmons education is that rare gift which only gets more valuable as you age --
because its inherent worth is something you enhance and polish with each new
accomplishment of your own. Hold tightly to that gift -- it is your constant reminder of
what you can do and how well you can do it.
I wish you the brightest and warmest futures ever!
Fondly,
Helen
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Message from the Council of Black
Administrators, Faculty and Staff (BAFAS)
of Simmons College
It is again my honor and privilege on behalf of the
Simmons College Council of Black Administrators Faculty and
Staff (BAFAS) to congratulate each of you on your successful
completion of this phase of your academic life here at Simmons
College.
In many of many of our lifetimes the mere fact that we
were educated both as people of African descent and as women
was in itself a revolutionary act.
You must continue on this very revolutionary path.
Many of you have, in the words of African American
restaurateur, lifestyle expert, designer and author B.Smith had
to stand on a mountain of nos to get to a yes! and you will
understand when civil rights pioneer A. Philip Randolph said:
"At the banquet table of nature there are no reserved seats.
You get what you can take, and you keep what you can hold. Ifyou can't take anything, you won't get anything; and if you can't
hold anything, you won't keep anything. And you can't take
anything without organization."
You are taking away with you from your time at Simmons
College both the knowledge that you can do it and achieve
much as well as the relationships and memories made over your
time here. The black feminist and poet Audre Lorde said: Even
the smallest victory is never to be taken for granted. Each
victory must be applauded... Tonights celebration along with
this Little Black Book 2011 captures a very special moment in
your lives and in your journey to becoming a Simmons
Woman.
Lorde also said: The sharing of joy, whether physical,
emotional, psychic, or intellectual, forms a bridge between the
sharers which can be the basis for understanding much of what
is not shared between them, and lessens the threat of their
difference.
Now as Simmons women you must continue to find and
speak with a loud, clear and purposeful voice; a voice which
tells the stories of your ancestors and prepares a way for those
who have yet to come after you; but you also have to make sure
that you take the time to put you at the top of your own to do
list.
We are proud of you, our daughters and wish you well and
want you to know that you always have a place in our hearts
and in our collective Simmons experience and memory.
Harambee,
BAFAS
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LITTLE
BOOK
Featuring...
Arianne Napier
Julissa Jansen-Morales
LaPorscha Hardmon
Mavis Achiaa Ofori
Natashia Thomas
Nicole Brown
Sabeta JarbaVenchele Saint Dic
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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored and minored in Women & Gender Studies & African Studies
because I believe in the power of women and more specifically women of
color. Therefore, my major and minor are extensions of my belief and
knowledge that women of color are multidimensional, complex, beautiful,
powerful and in many cases have been at the foundation of many peoples
success. Because of my strong beliefs and passion in work effecting women
of color, I chose this major and minor to insure that I would work everyday on
small and grand scales to combat these injustices and enforce positivenotions.
My life inside
Simmons was
outside of Simmons it
wasMy life inside Simmons was
inspirational and empowering. This
goes for the good and the bad. I
have had challenging and
wonderful moments at Simmonsthat have shaped my experiences,
the way I perceive and interact with
the world. I have found pride in my
identities while at Simmons and I have no doubt that being apart of theSimmons community has fostered this development.
My life outside of Simmons has been wonderful. I have had an
unwavering great support system throughout my undergraduate career, from
my family, friends, and professors, to other people who only stuck around to
give me some inspiration. To all of them, I am thankful! I have made
excellent career connections with folks and I have had fun along the way.
The people who
have been my
unassignedmentors have
encouraged me
and believed in
my intelligence
and my drive
when I wasnt
sure I was cut
out for the
challenge.
To all them I amthankful because
you were my
support and my
backbone some
days.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew
The people who would still be here at the end and the people who would
no longer be here. I could have spent more time cherishing those relationships
as opposed to others. I also wish I knew the potential I had, and wish I would
have planned ahead a little more.
As I look forward, I hope to knowmy own self-worth. I hope to know that I can find money where my
passions lie, or maybe the money will no longer be of importance. I hope that
I can do it, with challenges, bumps, cracks and pot holes in the journey. I hope
to know every day that I will be resilient.
People will always remember me asHappy, smiling. Always laughing. Loud and strong voiced everywhere.
In the fens, laughing again. As a leader, inclusive, opinionated, easy to talk to.
Expressive. Emotive. Helpful. Remember as the person who said the things
others didnt want to say.
I will always remember
The people who have touched my heart, shaped my experience,
encouraged my passions, told me I wouldnt make it. The quad, the black
women at Simmons. Laughing in the fens and having public taboo
conversations.
My promise for the future is
That I will always do my best and give my all. I promise to alwaysthank my supporters and to count my blessings. I promise that I will enter the
future head on, with my eyes wide and my heart open but with some valuable
learned lessons. I promise to always thank my mother! My promise for the
future is that I will not be perfect. I will make mistakes and I promise to learn
from them. I promise to carry my black queer woman-ness with me! I
promise that I will not forget how far Ive come, and how much further I have
the ability to go.
Arianne Napier
Women & Gender Studies
African Studies
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What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents,
accomplishments and ambition?
It simultaneously means challenge and success. I dont believe that
society is ready for women of the Simmons College stature. Most of us
are some powerful, head strong, leaders and filled with an array of
accomplishments. The drive that women possess is like none other and
the sooner society realizes that the better off they will be.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am my most authentic self as often as possible. I have agency,
self-awareness. I am fierce, look fierce in a suit, carry myself with pride,
self-respect, and dignity. I am a Renaissance Woman because thats whatmy mama (all of them) raised me to be.
A moving poem,
quote, story from the
Harlem Renaissance
for me is"Sometimes I feel discriminated
against, but it doesnt make me
angry. It merely astonishes me.
How can any deny themselves the
pleasure of my company? Its
beyond me."
Zora Neale Hurston
My Rosa Parks moment was or will besomething grand to someone. I will know when I see it because I will
have left my handprint in history or at least someone's memory. Perhaps it
will be in the form of a conversation, a dialogue, facilitation, or when/if I write
a book. The moment or every moment I make change!
My Sugar Honey Baby Girl,
Oh my goodness! I dreamed of this moment for many years and now
its coming true.
I never thought about writing a Farewell Letter to you, but I realize itreally is a kind of parting because youre moving from being my baby girl
to my friend who happens to be my baby girl too.
Arianne, I love you and I could not be prouder of what youve
accomplished, of the wonderful woman youve become, of the way you
dream your dreams and make them come true.
When you walk, Ill be there to cheer you on as I cry tears of
happiness.
I love you!
Mom
Arianne Napier,
As I write this letter I know exactly where to start. I would first like
to thank you for being you. You have opened my eyes to new and different
experiences as well as challenging me to ask more questions; to investigate
and to go with my gut. I do not know where I would be without you in my
Simmons experience. I do however think that it would have been very
uneventful for the most part. The bond that we have come to form will
surpass Simmons. You know how they say that every person on this earth
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is allowed three great loves (for me I count my closet friends). Well you
are a part of the three. You are one of my best friends and I say that with
confidence. You are amazingamazingly beautifuland amazingly
beautiful inside and out.
You WILL do great things in life. You WILL succeed(because you
have no other option). You WILL fulfill your hopes, dreams and desires.
So, please do me a favor. Dream big, reach far and never stop being you.
Make changes in the world. Effect what people consider the norm. And
please continue to challenge, impact and spread your knowledge. You
inspire all around you, and you have inspired me.
Best wishes love!
Beta (Sabeta )
Ari,
This is impossibleIt feels so strange, unnatural and
just wrong to be writing any kind of letter like this to you. I never imagined
sitting down and trying to compose a farewell note to you of all people,
which I guess is what Im supposed to be doing. But, thats just not going to
happen because Im never saying goodbye to you. So instead, I will say
this: From the day I sat down next to you on the couch in Java City and we
started to talk and become a part of each others life, you have been,
without a doubt, one of my best friends and one of the most amazing
women I know in my life. The relationship you and I have is something that
words just cannot explain or define. You hold such a special unique place inmy heart, hidden away from everything else. You are the person I know I
can call on to be completely brutally honest with me when I couldnt be
completely honest with myself, or even when I didnt want to hear the truth,
but needed to. Our relationship had its twists and turns and crazy moments
in the beginning, but somewhere between the flirting, FYE class, and all the
craziness in between, something irreplaceable and special began to form
that has not left me the same ever since we met. I can honestly say that my
experiences that I have had at Simmons so far would not have happened the
way they did, and many of them may not have happened at all if you had
not come into my life. You gave me a piece of ground to stand on, so that I
could claim it and become the person I love and am proud to be now. We
have always had this give and take, love and hate (but not really hate),
lean on me and Ill lean on you, I got your back, you annoy the crap out of
me but I love you to death, we could sit in silence or we could talk for
hours, call me any time of the day or night kind of a relationship. You
mean more to me than I will ever be able to convey to you in our lifetimes,
but know this: I love you with all my soul and I would go anywhere, and do
anything for you if you ever need me. I cant tell you enough times how
much you mean to me. With you, I can feel 100% comfortable just being
my crazy, dorky, true, genuine self. We can talk about sex as if we were
talking about the weather and neither one of us looks at the other strangely
when we discuss our most recent scandalous adventures from the past
weekend, comparing to see whose story is juicier or more daring. There are
so many meaningful conversations that you and I have had together, while
smoking a clove outside on the quad and breathing in the fresh spring air or
huddling close together because it was freezing outside. Im overwhelmed
right now as Im sitting here thinking about all the memories we have
shared together, and I know its just not possible to write them all down. I
cannot explain to you, how much I enjoy our cuddle sessions/spooning
special time together and it never fails to shock me every time when we just
fit so easily and well together. I love dancing with you and I will never stop
making fun of you when were walking down the street and you start doing
your New York style power walk. You know Ill never stop making fun of
youIts just too much fun. You bring so much happiness and laughter into
my life! You constantly challenge me, and push me, and make me want to
continue to better myself and always strive to be curious and know more.
You are such a beautiful person, inside and out, truly and completely. Im
going to be clich right now (seriously though, this is me, what were you
expecting?) because I need to tell you that if I were to say that you light up
a room when you walk into i t, I would be making a serious understatement.
You put everyone around you at ease and you shed a kind of glowing light
everywhere you go because it comes from your heart. You are truly a one of
a kind, and an inspiration and a simply amazing, fierce, strong, beautiful,
intelligent, and talented woman. I know you and I will always have each
other throughout our journeys, wherever life may take us both. I know we
will continue to be there for each other, and dont worry, I will remember to
believe in your love for me when it gets difficult sometimes and we havent
talked in awhile. I know we will come back to each other and stay in one
anothers life. So this is me saying thank you for being in my life, and for
being you. And this is anything but a farewell letter because it will never
be goodbye for you and me; its just see you later.
I love you,
Katie
yo,
this on goes out to arianne napier:
i wish i could tell you how much i appreciate you
how much you mean to me
how much i value your time and energy
you're truly exceptional
and you've taught me more than i can state in a farewell letter
i pray that you get mad rich and revel in success
i pray that you smile a lot more than anything else, and run this earth like
the boss you arei pray that you become god mother for one of my many children (someday)i pray that you exhale any negativity with every breath
i pray that you absorb the world's beautiful music, without your ipod :(
i pray that in whatever path you choose that you will love every step of the
way
i pray that our friendship grows stronger and that we find out more and
more why we are kindred spirits
i pray that you blossom, i pray that you stretch past your limits, that you
grow and reach each and every dream you have for yourself
i pray that you know you remember you're worth it, because I know you
know iti pray that we never lose touch. and that we will always go together like the
rhymes in Nicki's lyrics.
you are truly the best. and i love you, and i really mean it.
Love,Tati
To My Dearest Baby Sister,
I remember the first day I held you in my arms, your thick black hair
all curly and wild, your head all wobbly because you were not yet strong
enough to hold yourself up. Now I will have the honor and the privilege towatch you walk with your class and receive your diploma. This time our
embrace will not be me holding you up but my arms wrapped tight around
you as you stand tall, strong, beautiful and magnificent.
I look forward to many more laughs, smiles and memories. My world
will always be a happier place simply because you are in it!
Loving you Always,
Sylvia
"One who fears failure limits his activities. Failure is only the
opportunity to more intelligently begin again."
-Henry Ford-
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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Communications because I realized I wanted to be a
journalist. The thrill in investigating, creating, and taking pictures was what
attracted me to the career. When I got to Simmons and took classes relating to
public relations, graphic design, and advertising, I realized there's so much I
can do with a Communications degree.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of
Simmons it wasI wasn't very involved at Simmons my first three years. It was until my
Senior year, when I joined BSO and The Simmons Voice that my life outsideof Simmons was very much my life inside of Simmons. Everywhere I went, I
carried my Moleskin reporter notebook and always checked my e-mail to see
if I had to design a last-minute flyer for BSO. I loved it.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew
I wish I knew to get involved right away. Being involved means, late
nights, long meetings, extra work but it also gives me the opportunity to know
other students, get to know faculty and staff as well as put me in a leadership
position.
As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward I hope to know that I will never be in a situation
where I shall compromise my integrity. Simmons has instilled in me thevalues of sisterhood, the commitment to make a difference, and the search of
knowledge. I hope that these values will stay with me forever.
People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as the go-to when they needed
something to design. I would put pen to paper, or finger to trackpad and just
work away.
I will always remember
I will always remember lunch in the Fens where discussions would
range from pop culture, race relations, religion, politics or last night's event.
My promise for the future is
My promise for the future is to write stories for those who have no
voice.
Julissa Jansen-Morales!Communications
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What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?
There are already women of many talents, accomplishments and with
great ambition. We just have to make sure society will recognize it.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI love, I care, I create, I investigate, I laugh, I cry. I am.
A moving poem, quote, story from the Harlem
Renaissance for me is
Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.
-Zora Neale Hurston
My Rosa Parks moment was or will be
My Rosa Parks moment will be when I walk across the stage,diploma in hand, knowing my parents' sacrifice to move to this country
was worth it for them and for my siblings.
Juki
You are my heart. youre so amazing. i cannot believe you
have not been in my life sooner. you
mean so much to me, and i neverever never ever want to lose contact.
when we get famous we can do
famous things and do pompous
frowns and drink soda or juice (your
choice). we can be on the set on
community, snl, modern family or
any other funny sitcom. i would like
you to godmother one of my children
as well...you have until i have them
to give me an answer about that. :)
thanks for being the one i can laugh
with and for knowing my humor
better than anyone! you're so
fuuuuuuuuuu awesome...
love,
tati
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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in nursing because when I was just twelve years of age my
mother was diagnosed with lung cancer. Having to watch her go through her
treatments and be admitted into the hospital every to every other weekend
was hard. But she had wonderful nurses, especially her Hospice nurse. I
would never forget Joan the Nurse and everything she did for my mother and
I as we went through these difficult times in our lives. She impacted me and
from that day on I knew I wanted to impact a young person in the way she
had done me. Not only that but make someone's life better even in the lastdays of their lives. Joan the Nurse was my inspiration! So I thank my mother,
her nurse Joan and my family for why I majored in Nursing! One of the best
choices I've ever made thus far.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of
Simmons it wasMy life inside Simmons was always fun when I lived on campus as a
freshman. I enjoyed being around other people. And life outside of Simmons
was always hectic for me but the faculty helped me get through.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewAs I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew how important Freshman
year alone was.
As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward, I hope to know everything! Simmons has made me
into a sponge! I want to soak up as much as I possibly can.
People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as kind and caring but really silly with
a weird laugh!
I will always rememberI will always remember the friendships and bonds that were created
during my time at Simmons. Definitely came to know some "for a lifetime"
friends.
My promise for the future isMy promise for the future is to be the best nurse I can be and to continue
to further my education.
What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?It's a great leap for society for women to be of many talents,
accomplishments and ambitions. Most already are and now will be able to
bring their daughter up in that fashion. It will be a new respect for black
women as a whole.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a Renaissance Woman because as of May 2011 I completed college
while going through many trials and tribulations, while being a wife at a
young age and a mother of two. I set my goals and completed them and will
continue doing so. I am a Renaissance Woman because I can teach mychildren to reach for the stars regardless of what obstacles come in their lives,
make the best of it and continue to their goals. I am a Renaissance Woman
because I always put God first!
A moving poem, quote, story from the Harlem
Renaissance for me isI'm not sure if this poem was from the Renaissance, but Langston
Hughes "A Dream Deferred" was always a moving poem for me.
What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.
Or does it explode?
My Rosa Parks moment was or will beMy Rosa Parks moment has yet to come but I am sure as a nurse I will
have lots of small acts that will have large impacts on my life but most of all
the lives of others.
LaPorscha HardmonNursing
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I majored and
minored in
becauseIn Marketing because I love
to make people happy and satisfied. Marketing gave me the opportunity to
fulfill my passion and childhood dream.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of
Simmons it wasIt was very exciting and challenging. Being a transferred student from a
different country the transition was smooth, because of the multi cultural
environment.
Outside of Simmons i have been able to parlay my knowledge inmarketing at my retail job and my community.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewI was a transfer student and my first semester was all I expected.
As I look forward, I hope to know
To know what the world has for me, after I graduate from
Simmons.
People will always remember me asAs a very outgoing and nice person who is willing to lend a
helping hand.
I will always rememberThe delicious grilled chicken at Fens Cafeteria.
My promise for the future isIs to build on the leadership skills that I have acquired from
Simmons to make the world a better place for women. And alsoto serve as a role model and a mentor wherever I find myself.
What does it mean to the future of
society for women to be of many talents,
accomplishments and ambition?It is going to be so much fun,very challenging, because we will be
competing with our male counterparts. Women will be able to break new
grounds and close the ceiling gap.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI will never let anyone manipulate me.
A moving poem, quote, story from the Harlem
Renaissance for me is
The legacy of Harlem Renaissance opened doors and deeply influenced
the generation of African American women.
My Rosa Parks moment was or will beTo make sure I fight for my right and get a fair treatment in all aspect of
my professional career.
Mavis Achiaa OforiMarketin
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I majored and minored inbecause
Ever since I was a child I dreamed of being my own boss. My father
founded his own oil company, which inspired me to become a business savvy
woman. Independence. Being the youngest of six children I usually depended
on my siblings, but as time passed I became independent doing for myself;
therefore segueing into my educational and career choices which is why I am a
management major with a minor in leadership.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of Simmons
it was
Inside Simmons I was all about getting my education and participating in
the clubs that could fit into my schedule. Outside of Simmons I dedicated most
of my time volunteering in the Boston community as well as working with
multiple non-profits. One activity that demands a lot of my free time is the
Rachel Lorraine Thomas Memorial Scholarship, which my mother began in
honor of sisters dream to become a schoolteacher. As a board member I
evaluate applications and the board collectively decides on a student to receive
the scholarship. Over the past five years we have awarded six students who plan
to pursue a career in education, from the local high school in my hometown. To
me this is one of my biggest accomplishments outside of the classroom. Eachyear I create ways to fundraise and aid in the award ceremony presentation.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewI wish I knew how important it was to get involved and stay involved inthe Simmons community.
As I look forward, I hope to knowI hope to know where I will be and what I will be doing five years from
now.
People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as an outgoing unique individual, who is
quiet until they get to know me.
I will always rememberI will always remember all the experiences I have had throughout my four
years at Simmons.
My promise for the future isI have developed a passion to aid the community in which I live,
especially the inner-city youth. I am determined to become an active agent of
change, and I am aware that furthering my education will allow me to do so.
Following graduation I plan to get a masters degree in Health care
Management. After discovering sexual health education disparities and the
increased rates of STDs and HIV/AIDS among the youth, I devised a solution,
which is to create a health clinic. By establishing a clinic I can actively combin
my passions of creating a place that serves the youth, educates future
generations to generate change in the community in which I serve.
What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?Women must be a jack of all trades in order to progress. Possessing
multiple talents, accomplishments and ambition will aid creating a better future
Talents such as singing or painting can bring awareness to specific social issues
Accomplishments such as completing the furthest extent of education will
validate
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a Renaissance Woman because I am true to myself.
A moving poem, quote, story from the Harlem
Renaissance for me isThe Harlem Renaissance was the rebirth of Black Culture, where agency
and autonomy were key in creating a positive view of Black people. During thi
time Zora Neale Hurston, a writer, was a significant player in building Black
culture and studying black folklore. A compilation of quotes from Zora Neale
Hurston that are the most reminiscent of Harlem Renaissance and still hold a
great meaning to me today are:
Among the thousand white persons, I am a dark rock surged upon, and
overswept, but through it all, I remain myself. When covered by the waters, Iam; and the ebb but reveals me again."
"...I am not tragically colored. There is no great sorrow dammed up in my
soul, nor lurking behind my eyes. I do not mind at all.
Someone is always at my elbow reminding me that I am the
granddaughter of slaves. It fails to register depression with me
Slavery is the price I paid for civilization, and the choice was not with
me. It is a bully adventure and worth all that I have paid through my ancestors
for it.
My Rosa Parks moment was or will beRecently, I interned at a Boston based non-profit HIV/ AIDs
organization, as the management liaison intern and doubling as the volunteer
coordinator. Working with this non-profit gave me insight on the disparities in
access to health care, which provided the needed fuel to ignite action. While
interning I revamped their recruiting methods and recruited approximately 40
volunteers, which I believe was the necessary stride to aid in closing the gaps
within access to health care.Having more volunteers allowed us to provide
pertinent information regarding one of the worlds most virulent pandemics to a
large number of Boston residents.
Natashia ThomasManagement
Minor in Leadership
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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Communications because I wanted to have a degree that
allowed me to do a wide range of things post-college life. Communications
has so many aspects to it and at Simmons, I was able to experiment with all of
those things. My minor in photography complimented everything else I
learned.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside ofSimmons it was
My life inside Simmons influenced my life outside of Simmons. When
I first stepped onto the campus, I felt a sense of community. People usually
assume that a group of women together means nothing but drama andcattiness: Simmons is the opposite of that. Without the wonderful friends I
had and close relationships with my professors, I wouldn't have reached my
highest potential. I was able to take everything that I learned inside of
Simmons and apply it to my relationships and decisions made outside of
school.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewthat renting textbooks is wayyyyy cheaper than buying them!!
As I look forward, I hope to knowhappiness. More specifically happiness for myself...I'm still trying to
find out what that is, but I look forward to whatever that may be!
People will always remember me asbeing a hardworker. Period. I've truly worked for everything I have now
and supported myself for most of my college career. I want people to
remember me making my own dreams and goals a reality.
I will always remember
my college years. The farther I move away from them, the more I
realize that they were some of the best years of my life.
My promise for the future isto make my mother proud.
What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?It means a lot. Society is constantly changing and evolving; as women,
we need to evolve with it or we'll miss the opportunity to influence positive
change.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI use all of the talents and capabilities God has given me to the best of
my ability.
My Rosa Parks moment was or will beI'm not sure what my Rosa Parks moment will be. I think I still have a
lot to do in life and I don't seek those type of moments. They say that like a
butterfly, when you chase after something, you'll never find it; but if you're
patient and live your life as you should- what you want will land on your
shoulder.
Nicole Alyssa Brown
CommunicationsMinor in Photography
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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Psychology because I have always been interested in
helping others. From my first Psychology class in high school until now, the
urge to help others has never changed. My minor in Leadership occurred
sponteanously though, but I knew it was a perfect fit after learning about the
minor. I choose Leadership as my minor because I believe that leaders can be
born, but they are not perfect. In order to be a good leader one has to be
willing to build upon their natural skills and abilities and by taking up my
minor, that is what I am determined to do.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of
Simmons it wasMy life inside of Simmons College has been active, fun, inspiring, and
always surprising. Outside of Simmons College, I always knew that I was a
representation of my college, and I have always kept that in mind with every
action and every interaction that I have had.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewThat friends come and go and the ones that grow and mature with you,
are the ones that are worth keeping.
As I look forward, I hope to knowHow to keep growing and developing as an individual.
People will always remember me asJoyful and radiant!
I will always rememberThe endless hours spent in Bartol talking, laughing, and eating.
My promise for the future isTo make every step count, every interaction impressive and to turn
heads while doing so.
What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?For the future, it means that women will continue to do what they have
always done. Women have always worn many hats, and we will continue to
do so, it is in our nature.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI will make my own way and I stay true to myself while doing so.
Sabeta Jarba
Psycholog
Minor in Leadershi
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I majored and minored
inbecauseI majored in Public Health because I have
an interest to go the public interest field.
Specifically I hope to bridge the gap in
access to care nd health inequity in
marginalized populations. Finally, I hope
to join the Peace Corps and to attain a
Master's degree in Public Health. I
minored in Spanish because I feel that inorder to be an effective Public Health
educator, I have to use my language skillsin order to reach out to a larger range of
patients.
My life inside Simmons wasoutside of
Simmons it wasSimmons not only has given me a voice but a deep desire to make
innovative change. As I entered the doors of Simmons, my life was forever
changed. Simmons nurtured my intellect and challenged me to think
beyond the classroom setting. I have been given a set of mentors and
experiences I will carry with me in my life after Simmons.
As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewAs a Freshman, I wish I knew about the mulititude of Summer
programs that available to students of color interested in the health field.
As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward, I hope to continue overcoming my fears and
looking beyond my boundaries to be part of causes greater than myself. I
hope to know how to be a pioneer woman in my field and to mentor future
leaders.
People will always remember me as
People will always remember me as the student who came to Simmons and made a way out of no way. They will also remember me as the positive role model whoalways saw opportunities in any venture and who deeply values mentoring relationships.
Venchele Saint Dic
Public Health
Minor in Spanish
I will always rememberI will always remember my mentor, friends and my
big sisters who have been supportive of my goals and
who have pushed me to go above and beyond.
My promise for the future isMy promise for the future is to continue saving the
lives of many young women who have been told theywould never obtain success. I want to continue teaching
young women that they are possible and that they are worthy beyond measure.
What does it mean to the future of society for
women to be of many talents, accomplishments
and ambition?From a personal stance, the future of society will be determined by the
caliber of the characters of future women. We need to strive to break the glass
ceiling because if we keep the status quo, we will always be left behind and
never rise to our highest potential.
I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a "Renaissance Woman" because I always strive to be the change I
want to see in the world. I always believe that there is hope that the future
generation will continue breaking through barriers.
My Rosa Parks moment was or will beWhen I am able to return to Haiti and help in orphanages for children who
have been hit by the earthquake in January.
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerfu
beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who
am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a
child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about
shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as
children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in
some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other
people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence
automatically liberates others-Marianne Williamson
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Maya Angelou
'Cause I'm a womanPhenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of m li s.
Pretty women wonder where my
secret lies.
I'm not cute or built to suit a
fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
M inner m ster .
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say,It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of m smile,Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When ou see me assin
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,The need of m care,
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
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BLACKLITTLE
BOOK