My work: Carries out the legacy of Dr. Hooks by helping to ensure that people, regardless of racial, gender, ethnic or socio-economic status, have access to the American dream

My passion: Finding creative ways to create and sponsor innovative programs at the Institute.  I am also an avid collector of antiques and African-American art.

My favorite possession: A black-and-white portrait taken of me when I was about a year old, it makes me think about all my life experiences and realize what an interesting and eventful life journey I’ve been on.   

My hometown: Somerville, Tennessee

Words I live by: “Keep A-Goin’.”  It’s my favorite poem, by Frank L. Stanton. 

I can’t live without: My extended network of friends and family.

I am most proud of: Having rolled with the punches to create a full and interesting life.

One thing I never want to do again: Not trust my gut instincts.

If I could be totally wild, I would: Visit every major city or historical site in the world, stay at the best hotels, eat at the best restaurants, and live like a Queen until my money ran out.

I am guilty of: Eating everything chocolate.

Right now I’m reading: Anything about the Barack Obama candidacy.  I am trying to figure out what, if anything, it reveals about the continuing role of race in America.

Last major purchase:  An antique chest.  I couldn’t resist. 

My favorite body part:  I’m just thrilled no parts need replacing yet.

The food I could eat every day: My mother’s mustard greens. 

If I were a superheroine I would be:  Captain James. T. Kirk, commander of the USS Enterprise on “Star Trek”.

My best friend says I am: Scrappy.  I never give up on any worthwhile idea without a fight.

I’d like to learn to: Appraise art and antiques. 

My mother always said: You have an obligation to give back to the community.

My first job: I started working at seven years old at my father’s service station in Somerville.

What are you most vain about? There is not a vain bone in my body.