simmons college little black book 2011

8/3/2019 Simmons College Little Black Book 2011

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BLACK BOOKLITTLECLASS of2

Arianne Napier

Julissa Jansen-Morales

LaPorscha Hardmon

Mavis Achiaa Ofori

Natashia Thomas

Nicole Brown

Sabeta Jarba

Venchele Saint Dic

HE RENAISSANCE WOMAN


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LITTLE

BOOK

CLASS of2011


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4/24

December 1st, 2010, was the 55th anniversary of the

bus ride that took Montgomery, Alabama by storm. On

that day, Rosa Parks, then 42, refused to obey bus

driver James Blake's order that she give up her seat to

make room for a white passenger. Her small move of

activism started the 381-day bus strike. Little did either

party know that the incident would become a fire under

the civil rights movement.

We asked each senior to describe a moment she

did a small act that had a large impact during her

life or what she plans on doing.

And they replied My Rosa Parks moment was

or will be

TheRenaissanceWoman

Classof2

011

To the Class of 2011

Congratulations on this magnificent academic achievement!

Your college tenure has been marked by numerous historical

events in this country. In 2007, Nancy Pelosi became the firstwoman speaker of the House. In 2008, Barack Obama, of African

descent, was elected the president of the United States. In 2009,

Judge Sonia Sotomayor becomes the first Latina to sit on the

United States Supreme Court. In 2010, we marked the 55th

anniversary of Rosa Parkss courageous sit that helped launch

the modern civil rights movement. In 2011 you will receive a

college degree that will be integral to the success of your future

endeavors. What will mark the coming years for you?

An African-American proverb states that God makes three

requests of his children: do the best you can, where you are, with

what you have, now. I encourage you to embrace the life lessons

you have learned as an individual and those that we have learned

together as a community and society. Live life passionately and b

an active participant in your life and the lives of others.

Remember that success is connected to action. Nurture your spiri

and respect your gifts and talents. Share your light with others an

it will reflect back on you. I wish you much deserved success as

you join a legacy of women who have and continue to make the

power of their presence known.

Be Blessed,

LisaLisa Smith-McQueen

Assistant Dean for Student Life, Multicultural Affairs & Adu

Student Servic

My Rosa Parks moment will be...


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LITTLE

BOOK

Historically, the Little Black Book has played an important role in affirming the presence and

power of women of color of Simmons College. With every graduating class of powerful women

of color, a new legacy is created. Your legacy begins now.

Simmons women are legendary for their commitment, compassion, and support of each other

and of the community they are in. Draw inspiration from not only the successful alum around

the world, but also from one another. You will be remembered for your compassion, strength,

creativity and persistence.

Little Black Book is a remembrance of the experiences that each senior has once leaving their

undergraduate career and pursuing a new path in life.

To the class of 2011, my big sistahs, CONGRATS! We are all very proud and hopeful for each

and every one of you.

Best of luck,

Bianca Maxwell Harris

Sister of Little Black Book 11

Class of 2012


6/24

Letter from BSO

Vice President

Tatiana Johnson

To the Successful SimmonsWomen of Color,

You are wonderful,

beautiful and full of

inspiration. You are going to

be the bosses, leaders,

creators, change makers in

this world. Thank you in

advance for your success. Asyou go forward in this

journey remember Simmons

and the many people you

have touched. Acknowledge

that you have done so many

great things already, such

as graduating from college

and making great

connections to those around

you. Remain confident,

humble, proud and strong as

you continue forward. I am

so proud to have connected

with such amazing sisters

and friends, and to see you

complete great things in

your career, community and

relationships. I am honored

to write a letter to you, and

I am pray positive energy

follows you, wherever you

go.

Love,

Tatiana

Letter from President Drinan

Dear Graduates,

You have made the full journey -- soon you will be accomplished alumnae of Simmons

College! We welcome you warmly to the proud community of women who have walked

before you, striving as you have, pushing and pulling as you have, and finally soaring to

the height of their capacity as you have. Unless you have come through all the tests and

trials, it is impossible to savor the success.

Now in many ways you start over again -- this time, however, with a badge of honor

that communicates how well you have spent the past four years preparing yourselves.

A Simmons education is that rare gift which only gets more valuable as you age --

because its inherent worth is something you enhance and polish with each new

accomplishment of your own. Hold tightly to that gift -- it is your constant reminder of

what you can do and how well you can do it.

I wish you the brightest and warmest futures ever!

Fondly,

Helen


7/24

Message from the Council of Black

Administrators, Faculty and Staff (BAFAS)

of Simmons College

It is again my honor and privilege on behalf of the

Simmons College Council of Black Administrators Faculty and

Staff (BAFAS) to congratulate each of you on your successful

completion of this phase of your academic life here at Simmons

College.

In many of many of our lifetimes the mere fact that we

were educated both as people of African descent and as women

was in itself a revolutionary act.

You must continue on this very revolutionary path.

Many of you have, in the words of African American

restaurateur, lifestyle expert, designer and author B.Smith had

to stand on a mountain of nos to get to a yes! and you will

understand when civil rights pioneer A. Philip Randolph said:

"At the banquet table of nature there are no reserved seats.

You get what you can take, and you keep what you can hold. Ifyou can't take anything, you won't get anything; and if you can't

hold anything, you won't keep anything. And you can't take

anything without organization."

You are taking away with you from your time at Simmons

College both the knowledge that you can do it and achieve

much as well as the relationships and memories made over your

time here. The black feminist and poet Audre Lorde said: Even

the smallest victory is never to be taken for granted. Each

victory must be applauded... Tonights celebration along with

this Little Black Book 2011 captures a very special moment in

your lives and in your journey to becoming a Simmons

Woman.

Lorde also said: The sharing of joy, whether physical,

emotional, psychic, or intellectual, forms a bridge between the

sharers which can be the basis for understanding much of what

is not shared between them, and lessens the threat of their

difference.

Now as Simmons women you must continue to find and

speak with a loud, clear and purposeful voice; a voice which

tells the stories of your ancestors and prepares a way for those

who have yet to come after you; but you also have to make sure

that you take the time to put you at the top of your own to do

list.

We are proud of you, our daughters and wish you well and

want you to know that you always have a place in our hearts

and in our collective Simmons experience and memory.

Harambee,

BAFAS


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LITTLE

BOOK

Featuring...

Arianne Napier

Julissa Jansen-Morales

LaPorscha Hardmon

Mavis Achiaa Ofori

Natashia Thomas

Nicole Brown

Sabeta JarbaVenchele Saint Dic


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I majored and minored inbecauseI majored and minored in Women & Gender Studies & African Studies

because I believe in the power of women and more specifically women of

color. Therefore, my major and minor are extensions of my belief and

knowledge that women of color are multidimensional, complex, beautiful,

powerful and in many cases have been at the foundation of many peoples

success. Because of my strong beliefs and passion in work effecting women

of color, I chose this major and minor to insure that I would work everyday on

small and grand scales to combat these injustices and enforce positivenotions.

My life inside

Simmons was

outside of Simmons it

wasMy life inside Simmons was

inspirational and empowering. This

goes for the good and the bad. I

have had challenging and

wonderful moments at Simmonsthat have shaped my experiences,

the way I perceive and interact with

the world. I have found pride in my

identities while at Simmons and I have no doubt that being apart of theSimmons community has fostered this development.

My life outside of Simmons has been wonderful. I have had an

unwavering great support system throughout my undergraduate career, from

my family, friends, and professors, to other people who only stuck around to

give me some inspiration. To all of them, I am thankful! I have made

excellent career connections with folks and I have had fun along the way.

The people who

have been my

unassignedmentors have

encouraged me

and believed in

my intelligence

and my drive

when I wasnt

sure I was cut

out for the

challenge.

To all them I amthankful because

you were my

support and my

backbone some

days.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew

The people who would still be here at the end and the people who would

no longer be here. I could have spent more time cherishing those relationships

as opposed to others. I also wish I knew the potential I had, and wish I would

have planned ahead a little more.

As I look forward, I hope to knowmy own self-worth. I hope to know that I can find money where my

passions lie, or maybe the money will no longer be of importance. I hope that

I can do it, with challenges, bumps, cracks and pot holes in the journey. I hope

to know every day that I will be resilient.

People will always remember me asHappy, smiling. Always laughing. Loud and strong voiced everywhere.

In the fens, laughing again. As a leader, inclusive, opinionated, easy to talk to.

Expressive. Emotive. Helpful. Remember as the person who said the things

others didnt want to say.

I will always remember

The people who have touched my heart, shaped my experience,

encouraged my passions, told me I wouldnt make it. The quad, the black

women at Simmons. Laughing in the fens and having public taboo

conversations.

My promise for the future is

That I will always do my best and give my all. I promise to alwaysthank my supporters and to count my blessings. I promise that I will enter the

future head on, with my eyes wide and my heart open but with some valuable

learned lessons. I promise to always thank my mother! My promise for the

future is that I will not be perfect. I will make mistakes and I promise to learn

from them. I promise to carry my black queer woman-ness with me! I

promise that I will not forget how far Ive come, and how much further I have

the ability to go.

Arianne Napier

Women & Gender Studies

African Studies


10/24

What does it mean to the future of society for

women to be of many talents,

accomplishments and ambition?

It simultaneously means challenge and success. I dont believe that

society is ready for women of the Simmons College stature. Most of us

are some powerful, head strong, leaders and filled with an array of

accomplishments. The drive that women possess is like none other and

the sooner society realizes that the better off they will be.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am my most authentic self as often as possible. I have agency,

self-awareness. I am fierce, look fierce in a suit, carry myself with pride,

self-respect, and dignity. I am a Renaissance Woman because thats whatmy mama (all of them) raised me to be.

A moving poem,

quote, story from the

Harlem Renaissance

for me is"Sometimes I feel discriminated

against, but it doesnt make me

angry. It merely astonishes me.

How can any deny themselves the

pleasure of my company? Its

beyond me."

Zora Neale Hurston

My Rosa Parks moment was or will besomething grand to someone. I will know when I see it because I will

have left my handprint in history or at least someone's memory. Perhaps it

will be in the form of a conversation, a dialogue, facilitation, or when/if I write

a book. The moment or every moment I make change!

My Sugar Honey Baby Girl,

Oh my goodness! I dreamed of this moment for many years and now

its coming true.

I never thought about writing a Farewell Letter to you, but I realize itreally is a kind of parting because youre moving from being my baby girl

to my friend who happens to be my baby girl too.

Arianne, I love you and I could not be prouder of what youve

accomplished, of the wonderful woman youve become, of the way you

dream your dreams and make them come true.

When you walk, Ill be there to cheer you on as I cry tears of

happiness.

I love you!

Mom

Arianne Napier,

As I write this letter I know exactly where to start. I would first like

to thank you for being you. You have opened my eyes to new and different

experiences as well as challenging me to ask more questions; to investigate

and to go with my gut. I do not know where I would be without you in my

Simmons experience. I do however think that it would have been very

uneventful for the most part. The bond that we have come to form will

surpass Simmons. You know how they say that every person on this earth


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is allowed three great loves (for me I count my closet friends). Well you

are a part of the three. You are one of my best friends and I say that with

confidence. You are amazingamazingly beautifuland amazingly

beautiful inside and out.

You WILL do great things in life. You WILL succeed(because you

have no other option). You WILL fulfill your hopes, dreams and desires.

So, please do me a favor. Dream big, reach far and never stop being you.

Make changes in the world. Effect what people consider the norm. And

please continue to challenge, impact and spread your knowledge. You

inspire all around you, and you have inspired me.

Best wishes love!

Beta (Sabeta )

Ari,

This is impossibleIt feels so strange, unnatural and

just wrong to be writing any kind of letter like this to you. I never imagined

sitting down and trying to compose a farewell note to you of all people,

which I guess is what Im supposed to be doing. But, thats just not going to

happen because Im never saying goodbye to you. So instead, I will say

this: From the day I sat down next to you on the couch in Java City and we

started to talk and become a part of each others life, you have been,

without a doubt, one of my best friends and one of the most amazing

women I know in my life. The relationship you and I have is something that

words just cannot explain or define. You hold such a special unique place inmy heart, hidden away from everything else. You are the person I know I

can call on to be completely brutally honest with me when I couldnt be

completely honest with myself, or even when I didnt want to hear the truth,

but needed to. Our relationship had its twists and turns and crazy moments

in the beginning, but somewhere between the flirting, FYE class, and all the

craziness in between, something irreplaceable and special began to form

that has not left me the same ever since we met. I can honestly say that my

experiences that I have had at Simmons so far would not have happened the

way they did, and many of them may not have happened at all if you had

not come into my life. You gave me a piece of ground to stand on, so that I

could claim it and become the person I love and am proud to be now. We

have always had this give and take, love and hate (but not really hate),

lean on me and Ill lean on you, I got your back, you annoy the crap out of

me but I love you to death, we could sit in silence or we could talk for

hours, call me any time of the day or night kind of a relationship. You

mean more to me than I will ever be able to convey to you in our lifetimes,

but know this: I love you with all my soul and I would go anywhere, and do

anything for you if you ever need me. I cant tell you enough times how

much you mean to me. With you, I can feel 100% comfortable just being

my crazy, dorky, true, genuine self. We can talk about sex as if we were

talking about the weather and neither one of us looks at the other strangely

when we discuss our most recent scandalous adventures from the past

weekend, comparing to see whose story is juicier or more daring. There are

so many meaningful conversations that you and I have had together, while

smoking a clove outside on the quad and breathing in the fresh spring air or

huddling close together because it was freezing outside. Im overwhelmed

right now as Im sitting here thinking about all the memories we have

shared together, and I know its just not possible to write them all down. I

cannot explain to you, how much I enjoy our cuddle sessions/spooning

special time together and it never fails to shock me every time when we just

fit so easily and well together. I love dancing with you and I will never stop

making fun of you when were walking down the street and you start doing

your New York style power walk. You know Ill never stop making fun of

youIts just too much fun. You bring so much happiness and laughter into

my life! You constantly challenge me, and push me, and make me want to

continue to better myself and always strive to be curious and know more.

You are such a beautiful person, inside and out, truly and completely. Im

going to be clich right now (seriously though, this is me, what were you

expecting?) because I need to tell you that if I were to say that you light up

a room when you walk into i t, I would be making a serious understatement.

You put everyone around you at ease and you shed a kind of glowing light

everywhere you go because it comes from your heart. You are truly a one of

a kind, and an inspiration and a simply amazing, fierce, strong, beautiful,

intelligent, and talented woman. I know you and I will always have each

other throughout our journeys, wherever life may take us both. I know we

will continue to be there for each other, and dont worry, I will remember to

believe in your love for me when it gets difficult sometimes and we havent

talked in awhile. I know we will come back to each other and stay in one

anothers life. So this is me saying thank you for being in my life, and for

being you. And this is anything but a farewell letter because it will never

be goodbye for you and me; its just see you later.

I love you,

Katie

yo,

this on goes out to arianne napier:

i wish i could tell you how much i appreciate you

how much you mean to me

how much i value your time and energy

you're truly exceptional

and you've taught me more than i can state in a farewell letter

i pray that you get mad rich and revel in success

i pray that you smile a lot more than anything else, and run this earth like

the boss you arei pray that you become god mother for one of my many children (someday)i pray that you exhale any negativity with every breath

i pray that you absorb the world's beautiful music, without your ipod :(

i pray that in whatever path you choose that you will love every step of the

way

i pray that our friendship grows stronger and that we find out more and

more why we are kindred spirits

i pray that you blossom, i pray that you stretch past your limits, that you

grow and reach each and every dream you have for yourself

i pray that you know you remember you're worth it, because I know you

know iti pray that we never lose touch. and that we will always go together like the

rhymes in Nicki's lyrics.

you are truly the best. and i love you, and i really mean it.

Love,Tati

To My Dearest Baby Sister,

I remember the first day I held you in my arms, your thick black hair

all curly and wild, your head all wobbly because you were not yet strong

enough to hold yourself up. Now I will have the honor and the privilege towatch you walk with your class and receive your diploma. This time our

embrace will not be me holding you up but my arms wrapped tight around

you as you stand tall, strong, beautiful and magnificent.

I look forward to many more laughs, smiles and memories. My world

will always be a happier place simply because you are in it!

Loving you Always,

Sylvia

"One who fears failure limits his activities. Failure is only the

opportunity to more intelligently begin again."

-Henry Ford-


12/24

I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Communications because I realized I wanted to be a

journalist. The thrill in investigating, creating, and taking pictures was what

attracted me to the career. When I got to Simmons and took classes relating to

public relations, graphic design, and advertising, I realized there's so much I

can do with a Communications degree.

My life inside Simmons wasoutside of

Simmons it wasI wasn't very involved at Simmons my first three years. It was until my

Senior year, when I joined BSO and The Simmons Voice that my life outsideof Simmons was very much my life inside of Simmons. Everywhere I went, I

carried my Moleskin reporter notebook and always checked my e-mail to see

if I had to design a last-minute flyer for BSO. I loved it.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew

I wish I knew to get involved right away. Being involved means, late

nights, long meetings, extra work but it also gives me the opportunity to know

other students, get to know faculty and staff as well as put me in a leadership

position.

As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward I hope to know that I will never be in a situation

where I shall compromise my integrity. Simmons has instilled in me thevalues of sisterhood, the commitment to make a difference, and the search of

knowledge. I hope that these values will stay with me forever.

People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as the go-to when they needed

something to design. I would put pen to paper, or finger to trackpad and just

work away.


I will always remember lunch in the Fens where discussions would

range from pop culture, race relations, religion, politics or last night's event.

My promise for the future is

My promise for the future is to write stories for those who have no

voice.

Julissa Jansen-Morales!Communications


13/24


women to be of many talents, accomplishments

and ambition?

There are already women of many talents, accomplishments and with

great ambition. We just have to make sure society will recognize it.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI love, I care, I create, I investigate, I laugh, I cry. I am.

A moving poem, quote, story from the Harlem

Renaissance for me is

Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.

-Zora Neale Hurston

My Rosa Parks moment was or will be

My Rosa Parks moment will be when I walk across the stage,diploma in hand, knowing my parents' sacrifice to move to this country

was worth it for them and for my siblings.

Juki

You are my heart. youre so amazing. i cannot believe you

have not been in my life sooner. you

mean so much to me, and i neverever never ever want to lose contact.

when we get famous we can do

famous things and do pompous

frowns and drink soda or juice (your

choice). we can be on the set on

community, snl, modern family or

any other funny sitcom. i would like

you to godmother one of my children

as well...you have until i have them

to give me an answer about that. :)

thanks for being the one i can laugh

with and for knowing my humor

better than anyone! you're so

fuuuuuuuuuu awesome...

love,

tati


14/24

I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in nursing because when I was just twelve years of age my

mother was diagnosed with lung cancer. Having to watch her go through her

treatments and be admitted into the hospital every to every other weekend

was hard. But she had wonderful nurses, especially her Hospice nurse. I

would never forget Joan the Nurse and everything she did for my mother and

I as we went through these difficult times in our lives. She impacted me and

from that day on I knew I wanted to impact a young person in the way she

had done me. Not only that but make someone's life better even in the lastdays of their lives. Joan the Nurse was my inspiration! So I thank my mother,

her nurse Joan and my family for why I majored in Nursing! One of the best

choices I've ever made thus far.


Simmons it wasMy life inside Simmons was always fun when I lived on campus as a

freshman. I enjoyed being around other people. And life outside of Simmons

was always hectic for me but the faculty helped me get through.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewAs I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knew how important Freshman

year alone was.

As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward, I hope to know everything! Simmons has made me

into a sponge! I want to soak up as much as I possibly can.

People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as kind and caring but really silly with

a weird laugh!

I will always rememberI will always remember the friendships and bonds that were created

during my time at Simmons. Definitely came to know some "for a lifetime"

friends.

My promise for the future isMy promise for the future is to be the best nurse I can be and to continue

to further my education.



and ambition?It's a great leap for society for women to be of many talents,

accomplishments and ambitions. Most already are and now will be able to

bring their daughter up in that fashion. It will be a new respect for black

women as a whole.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a Renaissance Woman because as of May 2011 I completed college

while going through many trials and tribulations, while being a wife at a

young age and a mother of two. I set my goals and completed them and will

continue doing so. I am a Renaissance Woman because I can teach mychildren to reach for the stars regardless of what obstacles come in their lives,

make the best of it and continue to their goals. I am a Renaissance Woman

because I always put God first!


Renaissance for me isI'm not sure if this poem was from the Renaissance, but Langston

Hughes "A Dream Deferred" was always a moving poem for me.

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up

like a raisin in the sun?

Or fester like a sore--

And then run?

Does it stink like rotten meat?

Or crust and sugar over--

like a syrupy sweet?

Maybe it just sags

like a heavy load.

Or does it explode?

My Rosa Parks moment was or will beMy Rosa Parks moment has yet to come but I am sure as a nurse I will

have lots of small acts that will have large impacts on my life but most of all

the lives of others.

LaPorscha HardmonNursing


15/24

I majored and

minored in

becauseIn Marketing because I love

to make people happy and satisfied. Marketing gave me the opportunity to

fulfill my passion and childhood dream.


Simmons it wasIt was very exciting and challenging. Being a transferred student from a

different country the transition was smooth, because of the multi cultural

environment.

Outside of Simmons i have been able to parlay my knowledge inmarketing at my retail job and my community.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewI was a transfer student and my first semester was all I expected.

As I look forward, I hope to know

To know what the world has for me, after I graduate from

Simmons.

People will always remember me asAs a very outgoing and nice person who is willing to lend a

helping hand.

I will always rememberThe delicious grilled chicken at Fens Cafeteria.

My promise for the future isIs to build on the leadership skills that I have acquired from

Simmons to make the world a better place for women. And alsoto serve as a role model and a mentor wherever I find myself.

What does it mean to the future of

society for women to be of many talents,

accomplishments and ambition?It is going to be so much fun,very challenging, because we will be

competing with our male counterparts. Women will be able to break new

grounds and close the ceiling gap.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI will never let anyone manipulate me.


Renaissance for me is

The legacy of Harlem Renaissance opened doors and deeply influenced

the generation of African American women.

My Rosa Parks moment was or will beTo make sure I fight for my right and get a fair treatment in all aspect of

my professional career.

Mavis Achiaa OforiMarketin


16/24

I majored and minored inbecause

Ever since I was a child I dreamed of being my own boss. My father

founded his own oil company, which inspired me to become a business savvy

woman. Independence. Being the youngest of six children I usually depended

on my siblings, but as time passed I became independent doing for myself;

therefore segueing into my educational and career choices which is why I am a

management major with a minor in leadership.

My life inside Simmons wasoutside of Simmons

it was

Inside Simmons I was all about getting my education and participating in

the clubs that could fit into my schedule. Outside of Simmons I dedicated most

of my time volunteering in the Boston community as well as working with

multiple non-profits. One activity that demands a lot of my free time is the

Rachel Lorraine Thomas Memorial Scholarship, which my mother began in

honor of sisters dream to become a schoolteacher. As a board member I

evaluate applications and the board collectively decides on a student to receive

the scholarship. Over the past five years we have awarded six students who plan

to pursue a career in education, from the local high school in my hometown. To

me this is one of my biggest accomplishments outside of the classroom. Eachyear I create ways to fundraise and aid in the award ceremony presentation.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewI wish I knew how important it was to get involved and stay involved inthe Simmons community.

As I look forward, I hope to knowI hope to know where I will be and what I will be doing five years from

now.

People will always remember me asPeople will always remember me as an outgoing unique individual, who is

quiet until they get to know me.

I will always rememberI will always remember all the experiences I have had throughout my four

years at Simmons.

My promise for the future isI have developed a passion to aid the community in which I live,

especially the inner-city youth. I am determined to become an active agent of

change, and I am aware that furthering my education will allow me to do so.

Following graduation I plan to get a masters degree in Health care

Management. After discovering sexual health education disparities and the

increased rates of STDs and HIV/AIDS among the youth, I devised a solution,

which is to create a health clinic. By establishing a clinic I can actively combin

my passions of creating a place that serves the youth, educates future

generations to generate change in the community in which I serve.



and ambition?Women must be a jack of all trades in order to progress. Possessing

multiple talents, accomplishments and ambition will aid creating a better future

Talents such as singing or painting can bring awareness to specific social issues

Accomplishments such as completing the furthest extent of education will

validate

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a Renaissance Woman because I am true to myself.


Renaissance for me isThe Harlem Renaissance was the rebirth of Black Culture, where agency

and autonomy were key in creating a positive view of Black people. During thi

time Zora Neale Hurston, a writer, was a significant player in building Black

culture and studying black folklore. A compilation of quotes from Zora Neale

Hurston that are the most reminiscent of Harlem Renaissance and still hold a

great meaning to me today are:

Among the thousand white persons, I am a dark rock surged upon, and

overswept, but through it all, I remain myself. When covered by the waters, Iam; and the ebb but reveals me again."

"...I am not tragically colored. There is no great sorrow dammed up in my

soul, nor lurking behind my eyes. I do not mind at all.

Someone is always at my elbow reminding me that I am the

granddaughter of slaves. It fails to register depression with me

Slavery is the price I paid for civilization, and the choice was not with

me. It is a bully adventure and worth all that I have paid through my ancestors

for it.

My Rosa Parks moment was or will beRecently, I interned at a Boston based non-profit HIV/ AIDs

organization, as the management liaison intern and doubling as the volunteer

coordinator. Working with this non-profit gave me insight on the disparities in

access to health care, which provided the needed fuel to ignite action. While

interning I revamped their recruiting methods and recruited approximately 40

volunteers, which I believe was the necessary stride to aid in closing the gaps

within access to health care.Having more volunteers allowed us to provide

pertinent information regarding one of the worlds most virulent pandemics to a

large number of Boston residents.

Natashia ThomasManagement

Minor in Leadership


17/24

I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Communications because I wanted to have a degree that

allowed me to do a wide range of things post-college life. Communications

has so many aspects to it and at Simmons, I was able to experiment with all of

those things. My minor in photography complimented everything else I

learned.

My life inside Simmons wasoutside ofSimmons it was

My life inside Simmons influenced my life outside of Simmons. When

I first stepped onto the campus, I felt a sense of community. People usually

assume that a group of women together means nothing but drama andcattiness: Simmons is the opposite of that. Without the wonderful friends I

had and close relationships with my professors, I wouldn't have reached my

highest potential. I was able to take everything that I learned inside of

Simmons and apply it to my relationships and decisions made outside of

school.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewthat renting textbooks is wayyyyy cheaper than buying them!!

As I look forward, I hope to knowhappiness. More specifically happiness for myself...I'm still trying to

find out what that is, but I look forward to whatever that may be!

People will always remember me asbeing a hardworker. Period. I've truly worked for everything I have now

and supported myself for most of my college career. I want people to

remember me making my own dreams and goals a reality.


my college years. The farther I move away from them, the more I

realize that they were some of the best years of my life.

My promise for the future isto make my mother proud.



and ambition?It means a lot. Society is constantly changing and evolving; as women,

we need to evolve with it or we'll miss the opportunity to influence positive

change.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI use all of the talents and capabilities God has given me to the best of

my ability.

My Rosa Parks moment was or will beI'm not sure what my Rosa Parks moment will be. I think I still have a

lot to do in life and I don't seek those type of moments. They say that like a

butterfly, when you chase after something, you'll never find it; but if you're

patient and live your life as you should- what you want will land on your

shoulder.

Nicole Alyssa Brown

CommunicationsMinor in Photography


18/24

I majored and minored inbecauseI majored in Psychology because I have always been interested in

helping others. From my first Psychology class in high school until now, the

urge to help others has never changed. My minor in Leadership occurred

sponteanously though, but I knew it was a perfect fit after learning about the

minor. I choose Leadership as my minor because I believe that leaders can be

born, but they are not perfect. In order to be a good leader one has to be

willing to build upon their natural skills and abilities and by taking up my

minor, that is what I am determined to do.


Simmons it wasMy life inside of Simmons College has been active, fun, inspiring, and

always surprising. Outside of Simmons College, I always knew that I was a

representation of my college, and I have always kept that in mind with every

action and every interaction that I have had.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewThat friends come and go and the ones that grow and mature with you,

are the ones that are worth keeping.

As I look forward, I hope to knowHow to keep growing and developing as an individual.

People will always remember me asJoyful and radiant!

I will always rememberThe endless hours spent in Bartol talking, laughing, and eating.

My promise for the future isTo make every step count, every interaction impressive and to turn

heads while doing so.



and ambition?For the future, it means that women will continue to do what they have

always done. Women have always worn many hats, and we will continue to

do so, it is in our nature.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI will make my own way and I stay true to myself while doing so.

Sabeta Jarba

Psycholog

Minor in Leadershi


19/24


20/24

I majored and minored

inbecauseI majored in Public Health because I have

an interest to go the public interest field.

Specifically I hope to bridge the gap in

access to care nd health inequity in

marginalized populations. Finally, I hope

to join the Peace Corps and to attain a

Master's degree in Public Health. I

minored in Spanish because I feel that inorder to be an effective Public Health

educator, I have to use my language skillsin order to reach out to a larger range of

patients.


Simmons it wasSimmons not only has given me a voice but a deep desire to make

innovative change. As I entered the doors of Simmons, my life was forever

changed. Simmons nurtured my intellect and challenged me to think

beyond the classroom setting. I have been given a set of mentors and

experiences I will carry with me in my life after Simmons.

As I look back, as a Freshman I wish I knewAs a Freshman, I wish I knew about the mulititude of Summer

programs that available to students of color interested in the health field.

As I look forward, I hope to knowAs I look forward, I hope to continue overcoming my fears and

looking beyond my boundaries to be part of causes greater than myself. I

hope to know how to be a pioneer woman in my field and to mentor future

leaders.

People will always remember me as

People will always remember me as the student who came to Simmons and made a way out of no way. They will also remember me as the positive role model whoalways saw opportunities in any venture and who deeply values mentoring relationships.

Venchele Saint Dic

Public Health

Minor in Spanish

I will always rememberI will always remember my mentor, friends and my

big sisters who have been supportive of my goals and

who have pushed me to go above and beyond.

My promise for the future isMy promise for the future is to continue saving the

lives of many young women who have been told theywould never obtain success. I want to continue teaching

young women that they are possible and that they are worthy beyond measure.



and ambition?From a personal stance, the future of society will be determined by the

caliber of the characters of future women. We need to strive to break the glass

ceiling because if we keep the status quo, we will always be left behind and

never rise to our highest potential.

I am a Renaissance Woman becauseI am a "Renaissance Woman" because I always strive to be the change I

want to see in the world. I always believe that there is hope that the future

generation will continue breaking through barriers.

My Rosa Parks moment was or will beWhen I am able to return to Haiti and help in orphanages for children who

have been hit by the earthquake in January.

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerfu

beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who

am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a

child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about

shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as

children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in

some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other

people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence

automatically liberates others-Marianne Williamson


21/24


22/24


23/24

Maya Angelou

'Cause I'm a womanPhenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That's me.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That's me.

I say,

It's in the reach of my arms

The span of my hips,

The stride of my step,

The curl of m li s.

Pretty women wonder where my

secret lies.

I'm not cute or built to suit a

fashion model's size

But when I start to tell them,

I walk into a room

Just as cool as you please,

And to a man,

The fellows stand or

Fall down on their knees.

Then they swarm around me,

A hive of honey bees.

I say,

It's the fire in my eyes,

And the flash of my teeth,The swing in my waist,

And the joy in my feet.Men themselves have wondered

What they see in me.

They try so much

But they can't touch

M inner m ster .

When I try to show them

They say they still can't see.

I say,It's in the arch of my back,

The sun of m smile,Now you understand

Just why my head's not bowed.

I don't shout or jump about

Or have to talk real loud.

When ou see me assin

I say,

It's in the click of my heels,

The bend of my hair,

the palm of my hand,The need of m care,

I'm a woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That's me.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That's me.


24/24

BLACKLITTLE

BOOK

simmons college little black book 2011

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