Shows
Fostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Justin Clark, Executive Director of The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Charleston, West VirginiaJustin Clark is the Executive Director of The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Charleston, West Virginia. Justin moved to the Mountain State in May of 2021 and led the process of reopening the Clubs to in-person programming following a 15-month COVID-19 related closure. During his tenure, the Clubs have been recognized at the state and national level for successes in programming and advocacy, have significantly increased revenue, and are on track to exceed pre-COVID attendance levels in the fall of 2023.
Justin, a first-generation college student, obtained his Master of Public Administration degree with a concentration i...
2023-07-0633 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Clint Arnold, CEO, Kanawha Institute for Social Research & Action, Inc. (KISRA)Clinton Arnold is the CEO of KISRA, Inc. This nonprofit organization provides life, business, affordable housing, mental health, and coaching programs for the recovery, transitioning, and youth populations throughout West Virginia. He is also a West Virginia State University professor, teaching entrepreneurship, marketing, and business operations courses.
Clinton is a former business owner and telecommunications professional. He spent 25 years with Verizon Communications Inc. before retiring in 2013 as a director, where he led teams in sales, product marketing, product development, training, channel sales, customer marketing, and operations and communications, earned multiple President’s Leadership awards, as wel...
2023-06-2943 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Jessica Hudson, Executive Director, Dress for Success River Cities/Kanawha ValleyAfter nearly 15 years of a serving several different non-profit organizations throughout the Kanawha Valley, in the fall of 2015 Jessica Hudson took her passion and desire to positively impact people and communities to Huntington, where she became the Executive Director of Dress for Success River Cities, which recently opened a branch in the Kanawha Valley. After attending Concord University, Jessica later furthered her education by obtaining her Fundraising Management Certification through the School of Philanthropy at IUPUI. With the knowledge gained through that educational experience , along with a natural ability to engage an audience through her stories and experiences, Jessica has d...
2023-06-2137 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Dural Miller, CEO of Keep Your Faith Corporation
Dural is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of KYFC, Inc. Through partnership and mission focused drive, Dural has been able to apply leadership and community support to strategies designed to meet individual and collective social needs of family and community. Since 2006, Dural and his team of committed volunteers and professionals have been able to positively impact community wellness by moving forward school and community-based social programs developed to promote positive social and health outcomes.
2023-06-1819 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Sharon Lansdale, President/CEO of the Center for Rural Health Development, Inc.
Ms. Lansdale is the President/CEO of the Center for Rural Health Development, Inc.. She joined the Center in 1994 and brings over 40 years’ experience in health and health care resulting from her work in both the private and public health sectors. The Center is a private nonprofit that works to strengthen West Virginia’s health care system and improve the health of West Virginians.
Before entering public health, Sharon worked as a hospital pharmacist, including serving as the director of pharmacy at a hospital in Charleston. As a hospital pharmacist she was engaged in educating patients with diab...
2023-06-1430 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Sarah Bolyard, President and CEO, YMCA of Kanawha ValleySarah began her career with the YMCA of Kanawha Valley in August 2020 where she serves as the President and CEO. The YMCA of Kanawha Valley is comprised of the Charleston Family Y and the Cross Lanes YMCA Child Development Center with $4.5 million in annual revenue. Prior to the Y, Sarah served as the WV Executive Director for the American Heart Association for close to a decade. Before then, she held various roles in pharmaceutical sales. Sarah is a graduate of West Virginia University and holds a degree in Public Relations. Sarah resides in Charleston with her husband Brian, and...
2023-06-1031 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Stephanie Tyree, Executive Director, WV Community Development HubA native of Charleston West Virginia, Stephanie Tyree is the Executive Director of the WV Community Development Hub (The Hub).
With fifteen years of experience in policy, community development and community organizing, she has dedicated her career to advancing community-based, systemic solutions for rural, coal-impacted communities in Central Appalachia. Her primary area of expertise has centered around developing tools to drive community collaboration, leadership engagement, and community-driven change to build strong resilient rural communities.
Since joining the WV Community Development Hub in 2012, Stephanie has created the organization’s community-based policy program, expand...
2023-06-0743 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Jennifer Reed Goddard, CEO, YWCA CharlestonJennifer Reed Goddard, APR, has served as the Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Charleston, West Virginia since 2022. She first joined the organization in 2016 as their Chief Program Officer.
Jennifer started her career as the Director of Communications for the West Virginia Kids Count Fund where she wrote and produced the first four annual data books and developed the communications and outreach plans for the organization. Following her dreams, she then worked a regional advertising and public relations agency, which led to more than 15 years in corporate communications and as a community relations and outreach consultant fo...
2023-06-0227 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Mavery Davis, CPA, Director of Lending, New Economy Works WVSeed CommonsBorn in Los Angeles, California, Mavery Davis moved to West Virginia on a football scholarship. Although his scholarship did not fully materialize, Mavery remained in West Virginia, completed his degree, and had a career filled with ups and downs, as he candidly shares. Maveryis a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), breaking the chains of poverty and creating wealth. He is a CPA by day, serving as Director of Lending for New Economy Works WV/Seed Commons, and a community organizer, a motivator, and the Financial Literacy Bootcamp (FLBC) founder by night. Through the FLBC, he teaches youth the psychology of money...
2023-05-3027 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Melanie Seiler, founding Executive Director of Active SWVMelanie Seiler is the founding Executive Director of Active Southern West Virginia, with 20 years of experience in business ownership and management. Melanie has an Associate's degree in Adventure Sports and a Bachelor's in Adventure Recreation Management. She is also certified in CDC Work@Health T3, Diabetes Prevention Program, American Canoe Association stand-up paddle boarding, Professional Ski Instructors of America telemark skiing, and a WV Division of Natural Resources river guide. Melanie was named one of West Virginia Executive Magazine's Generation Next 40 Under 40 professionals in 2017 and a 2019 West Virginia Living Wonder Woman.
2023-05-2526 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Nakia Austin, Co-Founder of the Healing HouseCo-Founder of the Healing House, Inc., Nakia Austin, is an Inspirational Speaker, Professional Counselor, and Certified Life Coach offering over 15 years of experience in strategic thinking and tactical approaches to overcoming adversity. The Healing House, Inc. is a holistic behavioral health program that serves and empowers women. They help trauma-impacted women heal and rebuild. They provide an innovative approach to healing and a fresh take on life after trauma through the highest quality of coaching, counseling, and education.
As a graduate of The Ohio State University and Marshall University Graduate College, Nakia holds two degrees a...
2023-05-2231 minFostering SolutionsMaximizing with Michelle: Jennifer Waggener, founder and executive director of Faith in Action in the Greater Kanawha ValleyJennifer Waggener is the founder and executive director of Faith in Action of the Greater Kanawha Valley.
A South Charleston native, Jennifer attended West Virginia University. Most of her career was spent in corporate administration and marketing, including a long-term role as the Director of Marketing for the Mid-Atlantic region of Skanska, an international construction firm. The Waggeners relocated to Virginia and North Carolina due to career opportunities and lived away for nearly 16 years before the chance to return home presented itself.
Upon arriving back in West Virginia in 2009, Jennifer accepted a position with the A...
2023-05-1625 minFostering SolutionsMargaret O’Neal: Building a Better CommunityMargaret O’Neal, President of United Way of Central West Virginia, is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode. The United Way improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community. Margaret discusses the organization's critical support services and the upcoming signature event that includes Dr. Foster and other local leaders.
2022-12-3122 minFostering SolutionsSocial Workers Supporting Student Success - Chenelle Coy-Williams, LaToya Davis, and LaQwanza JacksonChenelle Coy-Williams, LaToya Davis, and LaQwanza Jackson are social workers with Kanawha County Schools, passionately supporting students and their success.
Her friends describe her as passionate with a big heart. Chenelle Coy-Williams is a woman who wears many hats in the Charleston community. Chenelle has been a Keep Your Faith Corporation (KYFC) therapist for the past year and a social worker with the Kanawha County Child Protective Services for the past 15 years. While supporting the students in her school, Chenelle has been able to standardize family support, create strategic interventions and incentives, and emphasize the im...
2022-11-1447 minFostering SolutionsKezia Campbell-Erskine: An Attorney with a Heart for Youth and Community DevelopmentKezia Campbell-Erskine is a Guyanese Attorney-at-Law who specialises in public international law and development policy. She holds a Master of Laws in Energy and Environmental Law from the University of Aberdeen where she studied as a Chevening Scholar. Her legal education commenced at the University of Guyana where she read for a Bachelor of Laws. Following this, she advanced to the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago where she obtained a Legal Education Certificate.
Currently, Kezia serves as the Head of the Legal and Treaties Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation...
2022-11-0727 minFostering SolutionsDebby Weinstein: A Community TreasureIt was my honor to chat with Debby Weinstein, a little over two months before she transitions to retirement. A renowned, passionate West Virginia leader, Deb has served as CEO of the YWCA Charleston since July 1997. Her work with the YWCA began in 1983 when she spent a year as a residential advocate for battered women and children in the YWCA’s emergency shelter, Hope House. Debby devoted the next nine years to serving as the Director of the YWCA Sojourners Shelter for Homeless Women and Families. Deb left Charleston for family reasons in 1983 and after a four-year stint as th...
2022-10-2731 minFostering SolutionsSpiritual Women Leading The Way: Judge DeborahThis special episode of Fostering Solutions is a compilation of two messages I recently shared at my church – Ferguson Memorial Baptist – in Dunbar, West Virginia. They are both about Judge Deborah from the Bible. Take a listen and I pray that you are inspired by the life of a formidable woman in the Bible.
2022-10-201h 05Fostering SolutionsDenitra Bruer: A Bodybuilding Chemical EngineerA West Virginia native, Denitra Bruer is an Environmental Health and Safety Improvement Manager with Dow Chemical Corporation in Freeport, Texas. Denitra earned her undergraduate degree from West Virginia University and a Master of Science degree from The Ohio State University, both in chemical engineering. Denitra’s engineering career spans over 20 years and includes positions in process engineering, project management, quality management systems, site logistics, and environmental health and safety, all with Dow.
Not only is Denitra a chemical engineer, but she also has a passion for people and fitness. She began her fitness journey as...
2022-10-1730 minFostering SolutionsOma S. Holloway: Building on Community StrengthOma S. Holloway, Chief Operating Officer, joined Bridge Street Development Corporation in 2015 as Director of Community Engagement spearheading Youth Workforce Development, Tenant Support Services, and Economic Development. She has over 25 years of professional work experience managing and consulting with non-profit programs and organizations in New York City. As Chief Operating Officer, Oma manages Bridge Street’s economic development initiatives, grants management, and youth workforce development portfolio that includes the growth and expansion of merchant association; Open Streets in Bedford Stuyvesant; Commercial District Needs Assessment; and technical assistance for small business owners. Oma secures over 1100 paid internships annually for young ad...
2022-10-1033 minFostering SolutionsDr. Kristi Dumas: It’s Time to Get UnstuckDr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions is Dr. Kristi Williams Dumas. Kristi is a native of California and transplant to West Virginia. She received a Bachelors of Science from California University Bakersfield, a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University Northridge, and a Doctorate of Psychology with an emphasis in Forensics from Argosy University of Orange. She has worked in the mental health field for over 25 years. Dr. Dumas is a forensic psychologist by trade. She is recognized as a qualified expert witness and routinely provides court testimony on the lo...
2022-10-0326 minFostering SolutionsAssignment Guyana: Hannah Porter Pursuing her Passion in the Peace CorpsAssignment Guyana: Hannah Porter Pursuing her Passion in the Peace Corps
Hannah Porter, a 2022 graduate of Angelo State University, accepted an assignment to serve in the Peace Corps. She left her home in Austin, Texas earlier this week to spend the next 27 months teaching in Guyana, South America. A native of Guyana, Dr. Foster speaks with Hannah in this episode about pursuing her passion for teaching in the land of many waters.
2022-09-3016 minFostering SolutionsChanged Assignment: President Ericke CageChanged Assignment: President Ericke Cage
President Ericke Cage is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. The 13th president of West Virginia State University, President Cage is a native of Halifax County, Virginia. He joined the university in July 2021 as vice president and chief of staff and was subsequently appointed by the Board as the university’s chief operating officer on July 30, 2021, with responsibility for managing the day-to-day operations of the university. Since assuming the leadership of West Virginia State University, Cage has prioritized institutional stabilization and operational optimization, renewal of the “state spirit...
2022-09-2628 minFostering SolutionsMatt Young: There’s a Runner in YouMatt Young, Head Coach of Genesis Running, is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode. Dr. Foster was coached by Matt for several years and is a 10K runner. She believes that any able-bodied person can run and it’s a wonderful way to get and stay fit. The Genesis 5K Program is a great way to start your running journey. There are several classes during the year in three locations. The next one starts on September 26. Check out genesisrunning.info for more information.
In Matt’s words, “I’ve raced on roads and trails in events fr...
2022-09-2125 minFostering SolutionsLaKeisha Barron-Brown: Making INROADS for YouthLaKeisha Barron-Brown: Making INROADS for Youth
LaKeisha Barron-Brown is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. A native of Detroit, Michigan, LaKeisha has lived in Charleston, West Virginia, for most of her life. She is a South Charleston High School and Marshall University graduate.
LaKeisha has an extensive professional background in providing therapeutic services to the substance abuse population. In 2013, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals hired her to serve as the Probation Officer/Coordinator for the Putnam County Adult Drug Court, a newly created program within the Putnam Coun...
2022-09-2025 minFostering SolutionsJudge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s Confirmation: Perspectives from Black Female AttorneysAttorneys Kitty Dooley, Stephanie Coleman, and Nicole McConlogue join Dr. Foster on this special episode of Fostering Solutions to share their perspectives on the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson as a Justice on the US Supreme Court.
Katherine L. “Kitty” Dooley has been a practicing attorney for more than twenty-nine years. She is the principal of The Dooley Law Firm, P.L.L.C. where she concentrates her practice in plaintiff’s personal injury, employment and administrative law. Click here for a detailed bio.
Stephanie M. Coleman is the Director of the Low Income Taxpaye...
2022-04-1254 minFostering SolutionsBlack Immigrant Women Pursuing their PassionsDr. Foster’s guests on this episode of Fostering Solutions are Karen Wharton and Dr. Saran Nurse. Karen is a political organizer based in Brooklyn. She’s currently the Democracy Coalition Coordinator for Citizen Action of New York & Public Policy and Education Fund, supporting the implementation of public campaign finance in the state of New York and the development of a BIPOC-centered democracy. The goal is to make democracy more inclusive and representative. Previously, she was the Brooklyn Education Organizer for Rank the Vote NYC (2021), the Field Director on Sandy Nurse for NYC Council (2020), the Assistant Field Director on Jaso...
2022-04-011h 01Fostering SolutionsOlubunmi Kusimo-Frazier: Leading in the Legal ProfessionAttorney Olubunmi “Bunmi” Kusimo-Frazier is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solution. Bunmi was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia. A magna cum laude graduate of Florida A& M University, Bunmi also holds a juris doctor from Washington and Lee University School of Law, in Lexington, Virginia. After law school graduation, Bunmi returned to Charleston to work as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and as a criminal defense lawyer for a private firm.
As a criminal defense attorney, Bunmi represented numerous clients in federal, state, and municipal courts, and was named one of the "T...
2022-03-2353 minFostering SolutionsMorgan Rhea Beals: Succeeding in Business in Appalachia
Morgan Rhea Beals is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Morgan and her husband Michael started Morgan Rhea, an American-made luxury leather brand, in 2015. Morgan always knew she wanted to be in the fashion industry. Coloring and designing outfits were her favorite past time. Her mother, Kathi, would take her along on her work trips. Kathi was an account executive for Elizabeth Arden. Morgan was always around fashion and drew inspiration from her grandmothers and aunts.
Morgan is a graduate of Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College, where she ear...
2022-03-1818 minFostering Solutions5 Christian Self-Care Principles for Life BalanceIn celebration of Women’s History Month 2022, I first shared this message at my home church, Ferguson Memorial Baptist. As we live through these COVID years, the need for self-care has become increasingly important. Self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s well-being and happiness, especially during periods of stress. Self-care is not selfish. Self-care is not indulgent. Self-care is necessary for us to cope in the midst of chaos. Jesus practiced self-care. He not only cared for others, but he took care of himself, physically, mentally, and spiritually. If Jesus practiced self-care, so shou...
2022-03-1529 minFostering SolutionsErrol Randle: Law Enforcement and Community BuildingErrol Randle is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. A retired 25-year veteran of the Charleston (WV) Police Department, Errol is a thoughtful, passionate leader who loves his community and believes in second chances.
While with the Charleston PD, Errol served as Strategic Planning Officer, FBI Gang Task Force Officer, Street Crimes Unit Detective, and Patrol Officer. As Strategic Planning Officer, he was tasked with developing and implementing 21st Century community policing strategies, developing innovative re-entry partnerships, and developing neighborhood revitalization efforts. Errol currently serves as the Community Outreach Specialist for the State of...
2022-03-0240 minFostering SolutionsMavery Davis: A Unique CPA Working to Increase Access to WealthMavery Davis is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Born in Los Angeles, California, Mavery moved to West Virginia on a football scholarship. Although his scholarship did not fully materialize, Mavery remained in West Virginia, completed his degree, and had a career filled with ups and downs, as he candidly shares. Mavery is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), breaking the chains of poverty and creating wealth. He is a CPA by day, serving as Director of Lending for New Economy Works WV/Seed Commons, and a community organizer, a motivator, and the Financial Literacy Bootcamp (FL...
2022-02-2455 minFostering SolutionsBlack Women Succeeding in Business in AppalachiaConsandra Leonard, Tina Beatty, and Courtney Williams are Black business owners in Charleston, West Virginia. They’re all a part of the Black Women Business Owners Expo held on February 19 and 20 at the Charleston Town Center. In this episode of Fostering Solutions, the ladies candidly share their journeys as business owners, including the challenges they have overcome and lessons learned.
2022-02-1442 minFostering SolutionsCaring for the Most Vulnerable: A Physician Passionately Pursuing Health EquityMichelle A. Matthews is a physician, teacher, public speaker, social justice advocate, and jazz vocalist. Through her work in the community, she has become a role model and mentor for young women and an advocate for access to human services, equity in healthcare, and healthy communities. A product of the public education system in Guyana and the United States, Michelle studied chemistry and physical therapy at Howard University. She went on to earn a degree in medicine from Wayne State University and later completed a residency in internal medicine and pediatrics. Michelle subsequently served as chief resident in internal...
2022-02-1434 minFostering SolutionsKeys To Leadership From Attorney Frank Walker IIAward-winning Attorney Frank Walker II is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Born in Institute, West Virginia, Frank received his education in Kanawha County Schools and at West Virginia State University, Marshall University, and West Virginia University, where he earned his law degree. Frank is a sought-after criminal defense attorney in Western Pennsylvania and Northern West Virginia due to his reputation as a fearless defender of the rights afforded to citizens in the Constitution of the United States.
Frank currently serves as a Board Member of West Virginia State University Foundation and...
2022-02-0221 minFostering SolutionsKeys to Leadership from Dr. Michelle EastonCustom MADE Consulting Founder and CEO, Dr. Michelle Easton, has had an extensive career in executive leadership in higher education, most notably having served as Dean of the School of Pharmacy at the University of Charleston in Charleston, West Virginia.
Senior-level executives in premier organizations seek Dr. Easton’s input on such topics as changing workplace culture, developing cultural relevance, and having productive feedback conversations, to name a few. Throughout her career as a leader, she discovered a new passion and developed her capacity for change management, facilitation, and coaching.
Dr. Michelle Easton is a Xavie...
2021-10-2230 minFostering SolutionsKeeping it Positive: Keys to Leadership from Dr. Oneeka WilliamsDr. Oneeka Williams, award-winning author, educator, entrepreneur, speaker, storyteller, urologic surgeon, and Positivity Catalyst, is the product of a science teacher mom and journalist father. Born and raised in Guyana and Barbados, she is on a mission to educate, elevate and empower and believes we can use the positive power of our stories to defeat negativity so we can achieve whole health, pursue our dreams, and live a life without limits. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Harvard Medical School, she has used her experiences and life philosophy as the catapult to impact the lives of her patients...
2021-10-1242 minFostering SolutionsEngineering Higher Education: Keys to Leadership from Dr. T. Ramon StuartRaised in the small coal-mining town of Welch, West Virginia, Dr. T. Ramon Stuart realized at a very young age the transformative impact that education could have on one’s life, one’s family and ultimately one’s community. This realization led him to study engineering and higher education administration. His higher education career started at West Virginia State University where he was a faculty member and administrator. Dr. Stuart was recently named President of Clayton State University in Georgia. According to Dr. Stuart, his humble beginnings in McDowell County taught him how to treat people, “because you couldn't act as t...
2021-09-2933 minFostering SolutionsKeys to Leadership from Amy Goodwin: First Female Mayor of Charleston, West VirginiaAs the first female Mayor of Charleston, West Virginia, Amy Shuler Goodwin never imagined that she would spend most of her first term leading the state’s largest city through a pandemic. However, her careers in journalism, public relations, communications, and state tourism equipped her for leadership in challenging times. Since taking office in January 2019, Mayor Goodwin has prioritized fiscal accountability, efficient processes, fairness and forward-thinking policies, and programming.
2021-09-2138 minFostering SolutionsBank On It: Keys To Leadership From Christy ElliottAs a 21-year-old college senior at Concord University, Christy L. Elliott had the audacity to ask a CEO about a job at his bank, one of the largest in the country. In less than a week, she had an interview with the Market President and a job offer from BB&T Bank, now Truist. Since joining BB&T in 2004, Christy has served as a Financial Wellness Consultant, Merchant Sales Consultant, and Commercial Banker before being named Market President in May 2017. In her current role, she manages the market franchise and is responsible for BB&T’s banking operations in se...
2021-09-1725 minFostering SolutionsTap unto your power grid: Keys to Leadership from Charles PattonDr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions is Mr. Charles Patton. Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Charles is an accomplished leader who has not lost the common touch. Dr. Foster remembers him from her days at the Kanawha Institute for Social Research & Action (KISRA) when he was then serving as Chief Operating Officer at the Appalachian Power Company. Instead of simply mailing a grant award check, Charles took time to tour KISRA and encourage the staff, by sharing anecdotes from his humble beginnings.
He is currently the Executive Vice President, External Affairs for Ame...
2021-08-3029 minFostering SolutionsGet Covered: Keys to Leadership from Don WilsonMr. Donteako Wilson is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. A native West Virginian, Don is the Managing Partner of Capital Insurance Group (CIG) and runs their Charleston, West Virginia and Columbus, Ohio offices. CIG is a fast-growing business which, after being in existence for less than five years, now has 15 offices in 12 states. Don has entrepreneurship in his genes. He started his first business venture at a mere 21 years of age, having been inspired by his mom. Undoubtedly, Don has achieved tremendous business success and is a role model. Click the link below and li...
2021-08-2635 minFostering SolutionsIt‘s teatime somewhere: International leadership in herbal teas with Mark DalgetyMr. Mark Dalgety is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions, a part of the Keys to Leadership Series. Mark is the founder of Dalgety Teas, the largest tea company owned by someone of Caribbean descent in Europe. Twenty-five years ago, Mark started drying Corilla (Cerassie) bush at his home in Georgetown, Guyana, and packaging it for sale in the United Kingdom. Then, using his chemical engineering skills and creativity, buoyed by his entrepreneurial spirit, Mark applied tea-bagging technology to what West Indians call “bush tea.” Today, Dalgety Teas has over 30 variants of herbal teas, which are so...
2021-08-1926 minFostering SolutionsStimulating STEM in West Virginia with Dr. Afrin NazDr. Afrin Naz is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Dr. Naz is an Associate Professor at the Computer Science and Information Systems department at West Virginia University, Beckley campus. She is also the regional co-director of WVU Center for Excellence in STEM Education. She received her PhD degree in Computer Science from the University of North Texas. She received more than 26 grants and authored numerous conference and journal papers. Dr. Naz is the Google Ambassador in West Virginia and arranged 6 face to face and online Computer Science workshops for k12 teachers at West Virginia. She...
2021-04-2627 minFostering SolutionsSTEMGuyana with Karen AbramsKaren Anne Abrams is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Howard University and an MBA degree in Marketing from California State University at San Francisco. Ms. Abrams spent more than ten years as a Technology Executive in Corporate America working for Atlanta based Mindspring Networks and later Southern California based, Earthlink Networks.
Karen is the pioneer who championed the introduction and national expansion of STEM Robotics, targeted to school aged children in Guyana. Abrams was determined to ensure that Guyanese youth be gra...
2021-04-2634 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - Making Moves in the Automotive Industry with Shamaya A. MorrisShamaya A. Morris is Dr. Foster’s guest on this Episode of Fostering Solutions. Shamaya is currently a Production Group Leader at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in WV (TMMWV), a two million square foot facility producing engines and transmissions for Toyota and Lexus. Her previous role as a production engineer was to provide system solutions and engineering technologies for the transmission assembly line she supports.
Shamaya earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Industrial Engineering and Management Systems from West Virginia University. As a West Virginia native, Shamaya has lived in WV her entire life and lov...
2021-04-1626 minFostering SolutionsFunctioning In Pharmacy with Dr. Dondel MoormanDondel C. Moorman, PharmD, BCPS is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Dondel is a native of the East End of Charleston, West Virginia. She obtained her Doctorate in Pharmacy from West Virginia University in 2005, completed of a Pharmacy Practice residency in 2006, and obtained her Board Certification as a Pharmacotherapy Specialist in 2007. Dr. Moorman has practiced pharmacy in various settings including hospital pharmacy, community/retail pharmacy, and pharmacy education. She is currently a Licensed Independent Practitioner at the Beckley VA Medical Center where she cares for our nation’s veterans through managing chronic diseases. Her newe...
2021-04-0821 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - Digital Marketing Insights with Petia Abdur-RazzaaqPetia Abdur-Razzaaq is Dr. Foster’s guest on this episode of Fostering Solutions. Petia is a Speaker for the Grow with Google Professional Trainer program. She began her career during the launch of The Boston Globe's website boston.com, where she developed effective online marketing campaigns for major clients such as Dunkin Donuts and Fleet Bank. For the past 10+ years as Principal of The Stylista Group, Petia and her team have developed and implemented digital marketing plans that have produced outstanding measurable results.
The firm has a niche focus that helps legacy lifestyle and luxury brands...
2021-03-2329 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - Dr. Chantel A. Perry: Data GuruDr. Foster chats with Dr. Chantel A. Perry in this episode of Fostering Solutions. Known as Dr. C, Chantel is an award-winning data scientist, Amazon best-selling tech author, and data and technology advisor. A native West Virginian and West Virginia University graduate, she currently works at a Fortune 100 bank leading the successful development and deployment of advanced fraud detection solutions. Dr. C also runs a part-time consultancy to show current and aspiring leaders how to leverage technology to enhance business performance and make a positive, widespread impact on society. In her 11+ year career, she has teamed up with members...
2021-03-0827 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - Longevity in IT with Marcia McIntyreIn this episode Dr. Foster chats with Marcia McIntyre. Marcia is a results-oriented Technology Professional with over 25 years of technology, software engineering, project portfolio management, application development and people management skills. She is experienced at leading technology initiatives from initial strategy through to implementation, operations support, process improvement and benefits realization. Over the years, Marcia has been aligned with Technology organizations across the Energy, Financial and Information Services industries. Marcia is a native of Guyana, South America. She currently resides in Atlanta and enjoys traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.
2021-03-0830 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - It's Never too Early to Start in STEMIn this episode Dr. Foster chats with Vivien Rayam. Vivien is a business coach, international bestselling author, STEM advocate, and co-owner of Code Ninjas Snellville in Georgia. She works with youth to help them develop a love of computer programming and foster an interest in STEM careers. In Vivien’s private coaching practice, she guides new and emerging women entrepreneurs to build a roadmap for success and build a sustainable business model that can weather any storm.
2021-02-2622 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions - Karen Leak: A STEM Role ModelIn this episode, Dr. Foster chats with Karen Leak, Early Career Program Manager, tasked with providing leadership to accelerate the acquisition and retention of key technical talent. Karen is a proud graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering.
Through partnerships with Greater Cleveland Schools and STEM-based organizations, Karen recruits skilled technical talent, focusing on underrepresented groups. She then crafts individualized mentoring programs that lead to success for these groups. And she doesn’t stop with recruitment. Karen encourages all young people to consi...
2021-02-2231 minFostering SolutionsDr. Kristi Williams Dumas: Thriving As An Entrepreneur In AppalachiaFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - Dr. Kristi Williams Dumas: Thriving As An Entrepreneur In Appalachia. Dr. Dumas is a forensic psychologist and entrepreneur. A California native who now calls Beckley, West Virginia home, Kristi is certainly an inspiration for women who are considering business ownership.
2020-07-2839 minFostering SolutionsSaran Nurse: Thriving As An Entrepreneur In Urban AmericaOn today's Fostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster: Saran Nurse comes on the show to discuss thriving as an entrepreneur in urban America.
2020-07-2130 minFostering SolutionsEric D. Coleman - Financial Management Made EasyFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - This week's guest is Eric D. Coleman.
2020-07-0843 minFostering SolutionsTimothy Gibson: Foundational Truths About Wealth ManagementDr. Michelle Foster talks with Timothy Gibson on this episode of Fostering Solutions.
2020-06-2947 minFostering SolutionsAyo Dalgety-Dean: Empowering Families Impacted By TraumaFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - Ayo Dalgety-Dean: Empowering Families Impacted By Trauma
2020-06-1839 minFostering SolutionsParadise FarmsFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster. In this episode, Michelle sits down with Michael Jones, Mike Easter, Ture Johnson, and Joey Aloi of Paradise Farms. This urban farm in Dunbar, West Virginia, is all about local food, local jobs, and local change.
2020-06-0529 minFostering SolutionsManaging Our Mental Health In Crisis Conditions With Dr. Nathilee CaldeiraIn the episode of Fostering Solutions Dr. Michelle Foster sits down with Dr. Nathilee Caldeira.
2020-05-2637 minFostering SolutionsTaking Control Of Our Wellbeing With Dr. Geoffrey Cousins, Cardiothoracic Surgeon (PART 2 of 2)Fostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster. We continue the conversation: Taking Control Of Our Wellbeing With Dr. Geoffrey Cousins, Cardiothoracic Surgeon (PART 2 of 2)
2020-05-1526 minFostering SolutionsTaking Control Of Our Wellbeing With Dr. Geoffrey Cousins, Cardiothoracic Surgeon (PART 1 of 2)Fostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - Taking Control Of Our Wellbeing With Dr. Geoffrey Cousins, Cardiothoracic Surgeon (PART 1 of 2).
2020-05-1429 minFostering SolutionsFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - An Epidemiologist's Role in Moving us from Crisis to Calm with Melissa Mickle-Hope, MPHFostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster - An Epidemiologist's Role in Moving us from Crisis to Calm with Melissa Mickle-Hope, MPH
2020-05-0628 minFostering SolutionsMy Three ThingsIn this episode, I share the three things that made me who I am today. I first shared this reflection on my journey during my acceptance speech at the 2020 Women of Achievement Awards presented by the YWCA of Charleston, West Virginia.
Music: Wow by the Bob Thompson Unit | Artwork: Auge + Gray + Drake
2020-05-0210 minFostering SolutionsPodcast IntroductionThis is an introduction to Fostering Solutions with Dr. Michelle Foster.
2020-04-2700 min