Answer: I have more than 25 years HR experience serving in both for profit and not-for-profit organizations. After gaining experience in human resources utilizing my skills in talent management, employee relations, and organizational development, I noticed the importance of workplace culture in driving employee engagement and ensuring overall business success.
Q: What led you to this point in your career?
A: I recognize HR is no longer just about hiring and compliance, but about fostering an environment that aligns with common values and a sense of belonging for employees. I made the natural shift toward culture-focused initiatives, seeing the broader impact of culture on employee satisfaction and ensuring our firm was certified as a Great Place to Work.
Today, my role is exclusively focused on building a great culture. This includes assessing the organization’s current culture, identifying gaps, and collaborating with leadership teams to build an inclusive environment.
My transition from HR to a culture-focused role became a natural extension of my career, allowing me to become involved with designing and executing strategies for employee engagement, values alignment, and communication, leveraging a deep understanding of employee dynamics and organizational behavior to shape an environment where people can thrive.
Q: Who are a couple of people you think of as your professional board of directors (the folks you go to for advice and support)?
A: I am fortunate to have many positive women around me who have supported my career and added value to my life by giving advice and counsel both personally and professionally:
- Vanessa Oliver Ward, president, Omega Community Development Corporation, is a person of faith and support. I have known her for more than 20 years and worked alongside her to advocate for community and social justice.
- Dr. Karen Townsend, of KTownsend Consulting, president, has been a mentor since college at Wright State University. We met in her role as the Director of the Wright State University Bolinga Center and she has supported me to pursue more than just a career but to pursue what makes me most happy.
- Stacy M. Thompson Spear Hardy, SVP, Keybank, has been a source of strong financial advice and encouragement.
- Jacqueline Gamblin, Founder & CEO of JYG Innovations, pushes me to step out and not be afraid to take chances.
- My daughter Maiya McKinney, who is a strong young lady and keeps me aware of the dos and don’ts of fashion when building a brand.
Q: What advice do you have for women growing their careers?
A: My advice to other women growing in their career is to “know your voice” and don’t be afraid to speak up about your achievements, skills and accomplishments. Leverage your strengths and stop focusing on just your weaknesses. Don’t downplay your success, advocate for yourself and be unapologetic when it comes to knowing the value you bring. Surround yourself with good people that will tell you the truth and always support other women along your journey.
Q: Are you involved in any cohorts, boards, nonprofits?
A: I am currently in a leadership cohort with the Dayton Chamber of Commerce’s Empower program. I am the following boards: Board Executive Committee member, Workforce Development for the Dayton Chamber; Omega Community Development Corporation board member, board member for Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness (YLAG non-profit organization) and member of Black Women United of Dayton.
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