WS Chronicle

By Felecia Piggott-Long, Ph.D. 

More than 100 members from the Southeast Region of the National Women of Achievement (NWOA) gathered at Highland Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 15, at 2 p.m. for the annual Profiles in Prominence luncheon. Ten trailblazers received recognition for their outstanding service in the community. Achiever Norma Corley, Southeast assistant regional director, served as the program chairperson. Achiever Deborah Bond, Southeast regional director, joined the achievers for the Profiles of Prominence luncheon. 

 “As a team, we have worked tirelessly to provide an atmosphere that reflects our appreciation of our legacy builders … men and women who have woven their lives into this community and left ‘big’ footprints,” said Corley. “These honorees exemplify our organization’s motto – “Excellence and Promotion of Achievement: The Key to Success.” Achiever Deborah Bond also brought greetings to the Southeast region achievers. 

“This year is the year of the African American woman. Women have proven over and over that they are very capable. I was there when Shirley Chisolm ran for president. I voted for her. It made me feel so proud to cast that ballot,” said Achiever Deborah Bond. 

Achiever Melissa Ledbetter introduced Achiever Corliss Sellers, the mistress of ceremony. 

“I am pleased to be here. We are moving forward together. Since 1980 when the first Women’s History Month was established, we have been educating and inspiring generations,” said Sellers. “Today I want to remind you, don’t ever dim your light to make someone else comfortable. This is Profiles in Prominence Day, and we look forward to our speaker, Achiever Patricia Wynn.” 

Achiever Wynn’s message addressed the theme “Keep Your Lamp Trimmed and Burning.” When she began her message, Wynn led the singing of “This Little Light of Mine.” 

 “We sang this anthem as innocent children. We all have a light to share. We can be the best we can be by following the Golden Rule. I believe that this rule has helped me to attain jobs, awards and good feelings,” said Wynn. “The lighthouse is a strong source of power, like the sign that invites students into WSSU: Enter to Learn – Depart to Serve. The lighthouse makes entering the harbor very clear.” Wynn explained how the floodlight, the spotlight, the flashlight, and the pin light can affect a person’s influence. 

“As a leader, check your inner spirit. You are the light of the world,” said Wynn. 

Ten lovely queens promenaded across the stage to be honored for their labors of love. Flonnie Anderson was honored for her 75 years she has been active on the theatre scene. Bonita J. Brown, the 14th chancellor of Winston-Salem State University, was also recognized. Joyce Murphy Hash, a leader, mentor and spiritual guide who has dedicated over 36 years to serving the community as the president and co-pastor of St. Peter’s Church and World Outreach Center, was embraced for her inspiration. 

Dr. Stephanie Hurt, Black woman business owner, producer, artistic and executive director of The Royal Curtain Drama Guild Theater Production Company, and the Parable House Players Theater Staffing Agency, was honored as well. Cheryl Lindsay, director of human resources and director of associate and community relations, Hanesbrands, Inc. was praised as the president and founder of Red H.E.A.R.T. (Help Educate and Reduce Risk Today), her passion and love. 

Rhonda Mays, a dedicated community organizer, social worker and advocate with a lifelong commitment to education, equity and social justice. She has an extensive history with the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools in various capacities. LaShanda Millner has excelled at image building for 40 years. She has helped men and women to embrace the value of the ABCs – appearance, behavior and communication. She is also the founder of the Urban STEAM Foundation, a learning curriculum which integrates the arts. 

Dr. Pamela Alston Oliver has been active in Jack and Jill of America for 14 years. She is the current chapter president of the Winston-Salem chapter of the Moles and the Winston-Salem chapter of the Links, Inc. She serves as a board trustee of the United Way of Forsyth County and for Winston-Salem State University. Antonia Monk Richburg, Ph.D., is the president and CEO of United Way of Forsyth County, and Charity Smith is the founder and executive director of UnEqualShares, a community-focused organization committed to addressing disparities, nurturing equality and fostering lasting success. 

After the luncheon and the honorees’ recognition, Achiever Annie Moye and I honored women who have had a positive impact on the local community. Moye gave honor to Michelle Obama for her recent book, “The Light We Carry: Overcoming the Uncertain Times.” I gave honor to the late Earnestine (James) Rainey Huff, artist from the Huff Art Studio. Her piece, “Madonna and Child,” is featured at the Dr. Martin Luther King Center in Atlanta. The Huff Art Studio is on Patterson Avenue.