leadership legacy – Urban City Podcast Group

12 Leadership Principles That Define Brigadier General Margarett Barnes’ Historic Impact

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:56:25 +0000

MAJOR TAKEAWAYS

Barrier-breaking leadership: First African American woman from Mississippi to reach general officer rank history made, not requested.
Service beyond uniform: Transitioned seamlessly from military command to civic influence, proving leadership doesn’t retire.
Infrastructure builder: Strengthened institutions across military, government, and community sectors not just symbolic leadership, but structural impact.

ARCHITECTS OF IMPACT
Women Who Lead, Build, and Redefine Power.

Executive Architect Of Impact
Women Who Lead, Build, and Redefine Power
Brigadier General (Ret.) Margarett Barnes
Trailblazing •Strategic • Distinguished

By Felicia Kelly-Brookins• 5 min read

There are leaders who break barriers, and then there are those who redefine what
leadership looks like for generations to come. Brigadier General (Ret.) Margarett
Barnes has done both with honor, discipline, and historic distinction.
A scholar and strategist, Barnes earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
from the University of Southern Mississippi, followed by a Master of Arts in Public
Administration from the University of South Alabama. She later completed a
Master of Strategic Studies at the prestigious U.S. Army War College, a credential
reserved for senior leaders preparing to guide complex national and global
operations.

Her academic preparation would prove foundational for a career marked by unprecedented
achievement. Brigadier General Barnes holds the historic distinction of being the first African
American woman from the state of Mississippi to be promoted to general officer in the United
States Army. In a military career spanning more than 32 years, she rose through the ranks with
strategic acumen and unwavering dedication, ultimately retiring in 2014 as the Deputy Commanding
General of the U.S. Army Human Resources Command.
Her service to the nation was recognized with some of the military’s highest honors, including the
Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and Meritorious Service Medal. These
awards are more than commendations, they are symbols of excellence under pressure, leadership in
complexity, and commitment beyond self.
But retirement did not signal retreat. Instead, it marked expansion into civic and community
leadership. General Barnes remains deeply engaged in Mississippi’s civic infrastructure. She currently
serves as President of the League of Women Voters of the Jackson Area, advocating for civic
engagement and informed participation in democracy.
Her leadership resume reflects wide-ranging impact: Past President of the Mississippi Court
Administrators Association, Member of the Mississippi Judicial Performance Commission, Past
President of the Pascagoula Business and Professional Women’s Club, Secretary of the Mississippi

Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army, Board Member of the United Way of Jackson County,
Army Reserve Ambassador for the State of Mississippi, and former State Chair of the Mississippi
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Her civilian career in Mississippi state government
further reflects decades of service before her retirement in 2007, a continuum of leadership that
bridges military, public administration, and community development.
What defines Brigadier General Barnes is not only the barriers she shattered, but the infrastructure
she strengthened. She leads with discipline. She governs with strategy. She serves with distinction.
Her journey is a masterclass in endurance, preparation, and purpose. In every uniform worn and
every boardroom entered, she carried not only rank, but representation. In this Women’s Executive
Spotlight, Brigadier General (Ret.) Margarett Barnes stands as a living testament to what happens
when excellence meets opportunity, and when opportunity is forged through determination.
Her legacy is written not only in medals and milestones, but in doors opened for those who follow.
And that is enduring leadership.
Urban City Podcast and Inspired Resources, LLC proudly recognizes Brigadier General (Ret.) Margarett Barnes as a true
Architect of Impact, an executive leader whose influence strengthens institutions, mobilizes communities, and builds
generational legacy. In honoring her, we celebrate not only her achievements, but the enduring power of leadership rooted
in purpose, faith, and unwavering commitment to progress.

The 5 Pillars of Leadership, Legacy, Integrity, Purpose & Women Leaders As Defined by Brigadier General Margarett Barnes

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:16:11 +0000

3 Major Takeaways

Strong leadership is built on foundational principles not popularity or position.
Legacy is the result of intentional service and consistent integrity over time.
Women leaders carry both influence and responsibility in shaping future access and opportunity.

A retired military leader and civic force outlines the foundational principles that shape disciplined leadership, purposeful service, and a legacy built to outlast the title.

By Felicia Kelly-Brookins• 4 min read

Architects of Impact: The Executive Legacy Conversation
About the Architects of Impact Series
Architects of Impact is an executive spotlight series highlighting accomplished women 50+ who lead
with strength, softness, and strategic clarity. These in-depth conversations go beyond titles to
uncover the “why” behind their work, the responsibility of influence, and the intentional legacy they
are building for the next generation.

Architect of Impact: Brigadier General (Ret.)Margarett
Barnes
Full Name: Margarett Barnes
Current Title: President
Organization/Institution: League of Women Voters of the
Jackson Area
Occupation/Professional Field: Retired U.S. Army Reserve
Retired Bureau Director, State of Mississippi

Number of Years in This Profession:

32 years Army Reserve
28 Years State of Mississippi

You occupy spaces where decisions carry weight and consequence. How would
you define your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved as you have
moved into positions of greater authority?
Response:
I lead using the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I
am fair yet firm. My moral compass is “The Word"

Titles describe what you do, but rarely capture why you do it. What is the deeper
“why” that anchors your work, and how does it influence the way you show up
each day?
Response:
My “Why” is to leave the space that I occupy better than I found it.

As a woman in executive leadership, how do you interpret the responsibility that
comes with influence?
Response:
I firmly believe that leaders should lead with integrity. Female leaders are held to a higher
standard than male leaders; there are no excuses or passes given to them, and they have the
responsibility to be technically competent in their jobs, ever conscious of the fact that their job
performance can either open or close the door for the next generation of females in that
position. An ethical leader is consistent and fair. They shield their staff by taking responsibility
for team failures and give credit team wins. It is not all about them it about the team.
Leadership extends beyond institutional walls. Please share the organizations or causes
you are actively involved in and why they matter to you.

1. Koinonia Baptist Church
2. League of Women Voters
3. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Social Action Committee

Response:
I recognize the fact that I have been blessed. These three organizations provide me
with an avenue to provide needed services to others and the opportunity to give back to
the community by paying blessings forward.

When the next generation studies this era of leadership, what do you hope they
will understand about the women who led during it?
Response:

 Family is important
 Find your purpose
 Stay true to yourself
 Strive for excellence through learning
 Honor, loyalty, and integrity matter

 Be decisive yet just
 Stand firm in faith and act boldly

If you could whisper one sentence of wisdom to your younger self, what would it
be?

I would tell my younger self to embrace challenges and difficult tasks; and be fearless in
the pursuit of your goals.
Closing Reflection
What does legacy mean to you, and how are you intentionally building it?

Response:
I would like to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference and be an
inspiration to others to do the same.

1 Powerful And Immaculate Educator, Visionary And Nation-Builder

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:02:32 +0000

Key Takeaways

•Educational Leadership Creates Generational Impact
Dr. Green’s career demonstrates how visionary leadership in education can shape not
only individual students but entire school systems. Through her work as a teacher,
principal, superintendent-level leader, and consultant, she has helped strengthen
schools and improve learning outcomes for communities across Mississippi and the
nation.

•Lifelong Learning Fuels Transformational Leadership
With advanced degrees and leadership certifications from institutions such as Jackson
State University, Harvard, and others, Dr. Green embodies the principle that effective
leaders remain students of their craft. Her commitment to continued learning has
allowed her to guide schools, educators, and districts toward innovation and academic
excellence.

• Service Beyond the Classroom Strengthens Communities
Beyond her professional roles, Dr. Green’s involvement in scholarship review boards,
mentoring programs, nonprofit leadership, and civic organizations reflects a deep
commitment to community development. Her work reminds us that true leadership
extends beyond career titles and into the empowerment of the next generation.

How Dr. Theresa Green’s lifelong commitment to education, leadership, mentorship, and system-building continues to create lasting impact and legacy across schools, communities, and future generations.

Q&A With Felicia Brookins• WHM Presented By Urban City Podcast 4 min read

Executive Architect Of Impact
Women Who Lead, Build, and Redefine Power
Dr. Theresa Green
Educator. Visionary. Nation-Builder.

In the world of education, leadership is often measured by titles.
But for Dr. Green, leadership has always been measured by
impact, the lives shaped, the systems strengthened, and the
futures made possible through education.
Born in Flora, Mississippi, to the late Elbert and Maggie Coleman,
Dr. Green’s story reflects the power of purpose anchored in
service. Raised in a community where education was viewed as
both opportunity and responsibility, she developed a commitment
early in life to ensure that students, educators, and schools had

the resources and leadership necessary to thrive.
A graduate of East Flora High School, Dr. Green continued her academic journey at
Tougaloo College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Anthropology
and Education. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there. She later earned a
Master’s, Specialist, and Doctorate in Reading Technology and Early Childhood
Education from Jackson State University, positioning herself as a scholar and
practitioner deeply invested in literacy and learning.
Her leadership preparation also includes Education Leadership certifications from
Harvard University, New York State University, and Florida International University,
equipping her with national-level insight into school transformation and educational
policy.
Throughout her career, Dr. Green has held some of the most influential roles in
education, not simply guiding classrooms, but shaping entire school systems.
Her professional experience spans positions as a Teacher, Principal, Principal Coach,
Executive Director of the School Leadership Academy for Jackson Public Schools,
Deputy Superintendent for Holmes County School District, and a leader within the
Mississippi Department of Education’s Office of School Accreditation. She has also
served as a Leadership Coach and Facilitator for the National Institute of School

Leaders (NISL) at the University of Mississippi, helping cultivate the next generation of
school leaders across the state.
Her work has earned widespread recognition. Dr. Green has been named Teacher of
the Year in both Mississippi and Florida and was later honored as Administrator of the
Year for Jackson Public Schools, Mississippi’s Second Congressional District, and the
State of Mississippi, distinctions that reflect both classroom excellence and
transformative leadership.
In 2011, she founded STAR Leadership Consulting, an organization dedicated to
helping schools and districts across the country achieve academic improvement,
accreditation success, and leadership development. Through her consulting work, Dr.
Green has supported educational institutions nationwide, strengthening systems that
directly affect student outcomes.
Yet her leadership extends well beyond the classroom and boardroom.
Dr. Green serves as a Scholarship Reviewer for the Zeta National Education
Foundation (ZNEF) and the NAACP Scholarship Awards Review Teams, helping open
doors for students pursuing higher education. She also volunteers as a facilitator for
Blackburn Middle School’s Choose to Grow Afterschool Mentoring Program, mentoring
middle school students and encouraging them to envision possibilities beyond their
current circumstances.
Her civic and professional involvement includes serving as a Board Member of the
Mississippi Early Childhood Association and maintaining active membership within
professional and community organizations dedicated to educational advancement. Dr.
Green is also a proud member and past president of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority,
Incorporated, Alpha Delta Zeta Chapter, where she continues her service as President
of the R.O.S.E³ Foundation, the charitable arm of the chapter dedicated to community
uplift and scholarship support.
In addition to her leadership in education, Dr. Green has contributed to historical
documentation and scholarship. She served as a co-author of “Zeta Phi Beta Sorority,
Incorporated, Mighty Mississippi: Our Journey to Centennial, 1938–2020, Inaugural
Edition,” preserving the history and impact of the organization’s work across the state.
For Dr. Green, education has always been more than instruction.
It is transformation.
It is empowerment.
It is legacy.
Her journey illustrates the power of women over 50 who continue to expand their
influence long after achieving professional milestones. Through scholarship, leadership,

mentorship, and service, she has helped shape the educational experiences of
countless students and educators across Mississippi and beyond.
In the Women Over 50 Executive Series, Dr. Green represents the enduring strength of
women whose life’s work continues to create opportunity for others. Her story reminds
us that true leadership is not confined to a single role or institution, it lives wherever
knowledge is shared, potential is nurtured, and futures are built.
And Dr. Green has spent her life doing exactly that.

3 Ethical Leadership Lessons on Legacy, Influence, Mentorship, Integrity, and Service from Dr. Curressia McFarland-Brown

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:41:49 +0000

Major Takeaways

Ethical leadership requires balance between achieving results and doing what is morally right for the people affected by those decisions.
Influence carries responsibility, especially for women leaders opening doors for the next generation.
Legacy is built through mentorship and service, not simply through titles or professional accomplishments.

How a Higher Education Leader Built a Career Centered on Ethical Leadership, Community Influence, and Legacy Through Mentorship and Service

Q&A With Felicia Brookins• WHM Presented By Urban City Podcast 5 min read Architects of Impact: The Executive Legacy Conversation About the Architects of Impact Series Architects of Impact is an executive spotlight series highlighting accomplished women 50+ who lead with strength, softness, and strategic clarity. These in-depth conversations go beyond titles to uncover the “why” behind their work, the responsibility of influence, and the intentional legacy they are building for the next generation. Architect of Impact: Dr. Curressia McFarland-Brown Full Name: Dr. Curressia McFarland Brown Current Title: Retired, University Administrator Organization/Institution: Mississippi Valley State University (Retired 12/2001) Occupation/Professional Field: Higher Education Number of Years in This Profession: 34 You occupy spaces where decisions carry weight and consequence. How would you define your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved as you have moved into positions of greater authority? Response: My leadership philosophy is embodied in nine, simple words: “Do the thing right, and do the right thing.” “Doing the thing right” is a reference to accomplishing established goals and meeting performance and productivity expectations. “Doing the thing right” is a reference to empowering others and encouraging their growth and well-being. This philosophy enables me to balance decisiveness with empathy, to respect the task and those responsible for performing the task. Maintaining this “balance” is my greatest strength as a leader. A defining moment that reshaped how I lead was a moment in my career when I felt the least valued/respected as an administrator. The knowledge, skill and aptitude that I brought “to the table” was ignored (at best) and discounted (at worse). The professional attacks were open and obvious – even to the point at which the academic well-being of students was threatened. This experience motivated me to become more intentional, most deliberate in avoiding the same behavior with those under my supervision. Titles describe what you do, but rarely capture why you do it. What is the deeper “why” that anchors your work, and how does it influence the way you show up each day? Response: My “why” is a commitment “planted” by my parents, “watered” by my lived experiences, and “pruned” by community. At the feet of Curby and Ruby McFarland, I learned that my talents and abilities are gifts from God. Inherent in those gifts is the obligation and expectation to serve. My life’s journey, the challenges and triumphs, reinforced those early lessons and equipped me to identify opportunities to “do good.” My experiences as a student, a professional, a wife and mother fine-tuned the ability to discern and sharpened skills necessary for growth amid pressure and expectation. How do I remain aligned? I approach each day determined to be the change I wish to see. As a woman in executive leadership, how do you interpret the responsibility that comes with Influence and how do you navigate power dynamics in spaces where women have historically been underrepresented? Response: I navigate power dynamics in spaces where women have been historically underrepresented by entering those spaces and taking my seat at the table – unashamedly, unapologetically. I move in those spaces with expertise, understanding and recognition of my responsibility to shape culture and open doors for the women who will follow me. At the same time, I am conscious of my responsibility to mentor those for whom space/ a place has been prepared. Being “in the room” or “at the table” is not (in my opinion) to be celebrated only as an individual or personal accomplishment, but as an opportunity for “community” elevation. That community” The next Sister(s). Ethical leadership is “the ability to do the right thing while doing the thing right.” Ethical leadership recognizes the legal right to engage in a particular behavior or practice does not mean that the particular behavior or practice is the fight thing to do. Leadership extends beyond institutional walls. Please share the organizations or causes you are actively involved in and why they matter to you. Response: Providence Missionary Baptist Church: My faith tradition is the firm foundation for all that I do and all I aspire to accomplish. Denominational leadership and engagement (at the local, state and national levels) are platforms for reaching the next generation and for advocating on their behalf. Delta Sigma That Sorority, Incorporated: As part of the National Social Action Commission of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, I am engaged (albeit immersed) in issues impacting our communities (including social justice, economic justice, educational justice, health equity). Women for Progress of Mississippi: Though geographical constraints limit my in-person involvement as a member of this organization, its principles, mission and vision are directly aligned with my purpose and presence in community. When the next generation studies this era of leadership, what do you hope they will understand about the women who led during it? Response: To the next generation of emerging women, I would whisper, “Yes, Queen Sister, you can.” The path will not always be straight, there will be pitfalls and snares, there will be challenges and triumphs. There will be glass ceilings and glass cliffs. “Yes, Queen Sister, you can.” What does legacy mean to you, and how are you intentionally building it? Response: Legacy, for me, is not measured by the titles I’ve held, the roles I’ve played, the positions to which I have been assigned. Legacy it is what I have inspired in others. Recently, I heard the remark (perhaps on social media) that some people will only be remembered because of a tombstone. I want to be remembered for opening doors, impacting community, creating “braves spaces” for those historically and systemically underestimated and underrepresented. I am intentionally creating legacy by intentionally investing in the next generation.

7 Legacy Leadership Lessons from Theresa Kennedy on Purpose, Influence, Mentorship, Service, and Opportunity

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:30:56 +0000

Major Takeaways

Service-centered leadership builds trust and influence. Kennedy believes authority should always begin with stewardship of people, opportunity, and community impact.
Purpose sustains leadership beyond titles. Personal experiences and a commitment to expanding access guide how she approaches decision-making and responsibility.
Legacy is built by opening doors. Through mentorship and community engagement, Kennedy intentionally creates pathways for the next generation of leaders.

Legacy Leadership Lessons from Theresa G. Kennedy on Purpose, Influence, Mentorship, Service, and Opportunity

Q&A With Felicia Brookins• WHM Presented By Urban City Podcast 4 min read Architects of Impact: The Executive Legacy Conversation About the Architects of Impact Series Architects of Impact is an executive spotlight series highlighting accomplished women 50+ who lead with strength, softness, and strategic clarity. These in-depth conversations go beyond titles to uncover the “why” behind their work, the responsibility of influence, and the intentional legacy they are building for the next generation. Architect of Impact: Theresa Kennedy Full Name:Theresa G. Kennedy Current Title: Political Director Organization/Institution: Scott Colom for U. S. Senate Occupation/Professional Field: Policy & Strategic Communications Number of Years in This Profession: 20 years You occupy spaces where decisions carry weight and consequence. How would you define your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved as you have moved into positions of greater authority? Response: I lead from a place of service first. For me, leadership is about stewardship… of people, opportunity, and impact. As my authority has grown, I’ve learned that decisiveness and empathy are not opposites; they strengthen each other. I make clear decisions, but I always consider how those decisions affect real lives. My greatest strength is building trust – people know I will listen, act, and stand on what I say. Titles describe what you do, but rarely capture why you do it. What is the deeper “why” that anchors your work, and how does it influence the way you show up each day? Response: My “why” is deeply personal. I care about expanding opportunity because I’ve seen both the power of access and the pain of its absence. Losing my father shifted something in me, it reminded me that time is short and impact must be intentional. Each day, I show up grounded in purpose, not position. Titles fade. Purpose sustains. As a woman in executive leadership, how do you interpret the responsibility that comes with influence? Response: As a woman in leadership, I feel a responsibility to use influence wisely and visibly. I’m often aware that I may be the only woman – or one of few -in certain spaces. I navigate that by being prepared, composed, and unapologetic about my perspective. I consciously open doors, make introductions, and create space at the table because someone once did that for me. Leadership extends beyond institutional walls. Please share the organizations or causes you are actively involved in and why they matter to you. Response: My community work is not separate from my leadership… it is an extension of it. Being a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. anchors me in sisterhood, service, and social action. Being a Board member of The Bean Path allows me to support innovation and digital access in our communities. Women for Progress strengthens my civic participation. As a Board member and volunteer for Dress for Success Metro Jackson, I’m able to help women walk into rooms with confidence and dignity. These spaces matter because they change lives in tangible ways. When the next generation studies this era of leadership, what do you hope they will understand about the women who led during it? Response: To emerging women: You do not have to choose between ambition and authenticity. You can lead boldly and love deeply. Protect your peace, invest in your growth, and don’t wait for permission. To my younger self: You are more ready than you think. Closing Reflection What does legacy mean to you, and how are you intentionally building it? Response: Legacy, to me, is about impact that echoes. It’s the young woman who steps into her first leadership role because she saw someone who looked like her do it with grace. I build legacy by mentoring, by showing up consistently, and by making sure the door stays open behind me.

5 Leadership Lessons from Dr. Portia Ellis on Women Leadership, Legacy, Influence, Public Health, and Mentorship

Felicia Kelly-Brookins — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:00:47 +0000

Major Takeaways

• Leadership requires accessibility and adaptability. Dr. Ellis emphasizes that strong leaders remain connected to the people they serve while navigating change and uncertainty.

• Influence comes with responsibility. Women leaders must walk with confidence and humility while recognizing that the next generation is watching.

• Legacy is built through mentorship and service. True leadership ensures that future leaders inherit stronger systems and clearer paths to success.

Leadership Lessons from Dr. Portia Ellis on Women Leadership, Legacy, Influence, Public Health, and Mentorship

Q&A With Felicia Brookins• WHM Presented By Urban City Podcast 7 min read

Architect of Impact: Dr. Portia Ellis
Full Name: Dr. Portia E. Ellis
Current Title: Mississippi State Director of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority,
Incorporated
Organization/Institution: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated
Occupation/Professional Field: Public Health Program Manager
Number of Years in This Profession: 6

You occupy spaces where decisions carry weight and consequence. How would
you define your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved as you have moved
into positions of greater authority?

Response:
My leadership philosophy has always been focused on being accessible and adaptable.
First, you must be people centered. Though leadership comes with tough decisions,
every decision must be made with care, wisdom and the idea of doing what’s in the best
interest of the people. You have to be accessible and understanding of the people who

you serve, and you must also be adaptable to the various changes, challenges, and
unforeseen circumstances that may arise at any given moment.
I have learned that everyone may not always agree with your decisions, but your
responsibility as a leader is not to necessarily make everyone happy, but to always do
the right thing in the spirit of integrity and transparency.
The most defining moment of my leadership journey was having to serve during the

COVID-19 pandemic during 2020-2021. While the world was facing unprecedent times,
it was my responsibility to ensure that the women I led stayed motivated to continue to
serve through these very challenging times. It was at this moment, that I reached the

“turning point” and noticeable evolution of my leadership style even when life gives the
whole world lemons, figure out a way to make lemonade!

Titles describe what you do, but rarely capture why you do it. What is the deeper
“why” that anchors your work and how does it influence the way you show up each day?

Response:
The “Why” behind the title is the inner joy that you feel when you realize that you have
been an instrumental part of making the world around you and the communities that are
producing our next generation a better place.
I was thrust into a leadership position at a very young age. At 26 years old, I was
appointed to lead a couple of thousand women who were older and much more
experienced within the organization than I was. I used this opportunity to be inclusive of

their wisdom, knowledge, and expertise as I reassured them that I had the maturity to
step into the role and to represent them with the highest degree of poise and
professionalism.

Years later, I was elected, then re-elected to continue to serve them, and their trust in
me, respect for me, and support of me have been my why. Having the love, support and
respect from those you lead makes the job easier and happier, and it encourages you,
with the help of The Lord, to continue to lead another day.
The late nights, early mornings, thousands of miles traveled, and many other sacrifices
are bearable when you see that the ones who are serving with you are making just as
many sacrifices to ensure that we are serving the communities that we live in and
making the world a better place. It is not about the “glitz and glamour” of the title, but
about the impact and the legacy that can be made regardless of age or background.
As a woman in executive leadership, how do you interpret the responsibility that
comes with influence?

Response:
The most important thing to have is self-confidence. For many years minority women
have been in spaces where we were underrepresented and overlooked. We have had to work harder than any other race and gender to have the same seats at the table with
stakeholders and decision makers. Working harder than others has allowed us an
opportunity to gain traction, influence and affluence. I have learned that you must know without a shadow of a doubt who you are, and whose you are. You must walk into a
room with a certain level of both humbleness and confidence. You must realize that
confidence is not synonymous with arrogance, but a demonstration that as a woman in
leadership, you have the same rights and privileges as your male counterparts.

You must remember that there is a little girl, or young lady who is watching you and who
will one day have to display that same level of confidence to make movement in spaces
that may not always be open or welcoming.

Leadership extends beyond institutional walls. Please share the organizations or
causes you are actively involved in and why they matter to you.

Response:
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is a community-conscious action-oriented
organization founded on the principles of scholarship, service, sisterhood and Finer
Womanhood. My service to this organization has developed me as a leader and allowed
me to service the community as a change agent. My faith in God has allowed me to
navigate all aspects of leadership and I am a proud member of the Church of God In
Christ, Inc., where I serve in various leadership and ministry capacities.
Lastly, my professional affiliations and certifications within public health and health
education have allowed me to have the perfect balance while allowing me to work
toward the greater good of the community through volunteer, professional, and faith-
based affiliations.
When the next generation studies this era of leadership, what do you hope they
will understand about the women who led during it?

Response:
The best advice that I can give the next generation is to unapologetically be the best
that you can be! There are so many ahead of them in the current and past eras who
have already gone through the fight for them to have more opportunities and a better
pathway for achieving success.
Every day you must give it 1,000%, and go forth in leadership like it is your very last
shot at accomplishing your goals. You must have strong faith and a meditation life that
will keep you rooted and grounded and encourage you to walk the straight and narrow.
Be kind and honest, while being stern and confident. The sky is forever the limit!
Closing Reflection
What does legacy mean to you, and how are you intentionally building it?

Response:
Legacy means ensuring that you leave things better than how you found it, and that you
are there to help the next set of leaders every step of the way. When I leave this office, I
vow to ensure that the person who comes behind me has a smooth transition with
“lessons learned” of experiences that I had to overcome, and that they can possibly
avoid! This is the essence of leadership and mentorship while ensuring that lasting
legacies are preserved forever!

Radiant Leadership: 1 First Lady Who Reimagined Black Power Michelle Obama

Urban City Podcast Group — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:00:09 +0000

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Major Takeaways

Michelle Obama redefined what it means to be a modern First Lady.
She used her platform to fight for education, health, and equity.
Her global influence continues to inspire Black women and girls worldwide.

From the South Side of Chicago to the World Stage, Michelle Obama Changed the Game

Thaddeus Myles here, family welcome back to Urban City’s Black Agenda, where we don’t just talk about who made it, we talk about who changed it. Today is Day 16, and we’re stepping into the story of a woman who walked into the most powerful house in the world and made it feel like home for millions of Black folks who had never seen themselves there before.

We’re talking about Michelle Obama.

Before the White House, before the speeches, before the bestselling books and global tours, Michelle Robinson was a young Black girl growing up on the South Side of Chicago. Working-class. Disciplined. Brilliant. Raised by parents who believed in education, integrity, and never letting anybody define your worth for you.

She didn’t grow up with privilege she grew up with expectations. And that’s often more powerful.

Michelle went on to attend Princeton University and Harvard Law School two institutions that weren’t exactly designed with girls who looked like her in mind. She walked into rooms where nobody expected her to be the smartest one there and walked out with the credentials to prove she was.

But here’s what separates Michelle Obama from the rest of the elite:
She never forgot where she came from.

When she became First Lady of the United States, she could’ve chosen to play it safe. Smile. Host dinners. Stay quiet. But Michelle didn’t get to the White House to blend into the wallpaper.

She got there to lead.

Her Let’s Move! initiative tackled childhood obesity and food inequality problems that hit Black and Brown communities the hardest. She went into schools. She worked with families. She challenged corporations. And she did it with compassion and firmness.

Then came her focus on education, especially for girls. Michelle traveled the world advocating for young women who had been told they didn’t matter. Through her Let Girls Learn program, she reminded millions that education isn’t just a personal victory it’s a revolutionary act.

And let’s not ignore the elephant in the room.

Michelle Obama endured racism, misogyny, and disrespect on a level most people can’t imagine. From attacks on her appearance to attacks on her intelligence to outright racist caricatures she stood tall anyway. She didn’t shrink. She didn’t break. She didn’t become bitter.

She became stronger.

Her grace under pressure became its own kind of activism. She showed Black women everywhere that you don’t have to sacrifice dignity to command respect.

After leaving the White House, Michelle didn’t fade into the background. She became a global force. Her memoir Becoming became one of the best-selling books of all time. Her speeches fill arenas. Her influence stretches from classrooms to boardrooms to living rooms around the world.

And the message stays the same:
You matter.
Your story matters.
Your voice matters.

Michelle Obama didn’t just serve as First Lady.
She redefined what that role could be.

She turned it into a platform for equity, education, and empowerment. She made it a space where Black excellence was not hidden it was celebrated.

So today, Day 16 of Urban City’s Black Agenda, we honor Michelle Obama the Radiant Leader who showed the world what Black power looks like when it’s grounded in grace, intelligence, and purpose.

I’m Thaddeus Myles, and you already know keep it locked to urbancitypodcast.com and the Urban City Podcast app all month long for Urban City Podcast’s Black Agenda, powered by 4AM Roastery at 4amroastery.com.

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