I have been in public health for thirty plus years in the St. Louis region.  I have served my community in various capacities through the years i.e., educator, counselor, mentor, coach, health advocate among others.  I was born in Mississippi on a plantation, raised by a single mother in public housing, lived in a depressed urban community, received a public education and this life experience has given me the “why” for the work that I do unapologetically for Black people.