National Mentoring Month

January is National Mentoring Month. I’m honored to be recognized by Capital Partners for Education (CPE) as a Mentor. Mentoring is a mutually rewarding experience and I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to meet an amazing young lady and mentors. I appreciate my mentee’s trust and take my committment seriously. We’ve bonded over reading books, attening […]

What I Learned From Michelle Obama’s ‘Becoming’

It was a GORGEOUS Day in Washington, DC and a beautiful evening for an intimate conversation with First Lady Michelle Obama! She exudes grace, style, and class and it was an honor to be in her presence. I was all ears!  Mrs. Obama was funny and relatable sharing her story. Her upbringing was similar to […]

‘Tis the Season to Mind Your Manners: Holiday Etiquette

Chances are you will be invited to someone’s home to celebrate the holiday season.  As a guest, it is important to be respectful and exhibit good manners and proper etiquette in the home of your host.  Part of the professional and social process is being able to understand how to be a proper guest and […]

Grace Under Fire

I celebrated my birthday two weeks ago and expressed words of wisdom: “Find your JOY! If you’re comfortable with YOU, don’t worry about the shenanigans.” When someone tries to discredit you, address it with honesty and progress with dignity. You’ve probably seen the news story about Geoffrey Owens, former Cosby Show actor, being shamed for […]

How To Properly Wear A Men’s Suit

Professional dress code for a man means a suit and tie. I created a visual guide to how a man’s suit should fit to help young men and professionals navigate business professional dress code. Etiquette is about presenting yourself with poise to exude competency, confidence, and charisma, while making people feel comfortable, valued, and appreciated. Professional image […]

Funeral Etiquette: What To Wear To A Funeral

Last night’s hot topic debated what’s appropriate funeral attire for women after watching Ariana Grande sing at Aretha Franklin’s, Queen of Soul, funeral in a black minidress. People reached out to ask if traditional attire is required. What is and what isn’t appropriate attire for a funeral? Growing up the guideline was dress like you’re […]

Valentine’s Day Savoir-Faire

dining etiquette

Valentine’s Day evokes love and sweetness in our hearts. It’s a time for romantic dinners, champagne, and truffles. Part of the romance of dining is impressing your date with proper table manners. The way you behave while dining is a reflection of your character, charisma, and competence. Years ago, I was invited to Valentine’s Day […]

Behavior vs. Job Training

Booming economy. Low unemployment rates. Robust job market. Era of economic growth. Employers screaming we need workers. Applicants screaming we want jobs. Given that’s the case, why is unemployment on the rise in the inner cities. Is it due to the lack of jobs? Not so, based on strong economic growth. Maybe it’s the lack […]

Office Aromas Cause A Stink

Illustration by Andrew Joyner/Bloomberg Businessweek.com

Recently, I received a phone call from an excited colleague inviting me to visit his newly renovated office decorated with imported Italian furnishings, state-of-the-art technology, and Parisian art. WOW, sounds posh! Beaming with enthusiasm peering into the glass doors checking out the new digs, I could feel my nose twinge and forehead wrinkle. As I […]