Age: Older than I look. Birthplace: Tuscaloosa, AL. Profession: Sustainable materials management. Organization: Covanta. Title: EVP, Chief Sustainability Officer. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers. Significant other: Mark Smith (spouse). Alma mater: University of Alabama at Birmingham (B.S., M.B.A.); University of Alabama (M.A.).
Current project: Environmental justice initiatives. Latest contribution to others: Establishing STEM scholarships for minority students at UAB. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Leaving a company after almost 25 years. Hobbies: Football (high school, collegiate and NFL). Recent travel or adventure: Greece. Recently viewed and recommended: NoodlesThePooch (Instagram).
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Loyal. Moral compass: The Bible. How do you define a perfect friendship? Transparency, loyalty and safety. What is your greatest joy? My family. What is your greatest fear? Disappointing those I love. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teachers and preachers. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Chloe Kristyn. How do you relieve stress? Practicing mindfulness. What is your go-to workout? Orangetheory.
What was your first paying job? At McDonald’s. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Dolls. What book have you repeatedly read? Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeymi. What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Best Man Holiday. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Family portraits. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My cousin, Debra Brown. What’s the best advice you received growing up? You can do anything. You can be anything. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Do what’s right. Treat people right. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? The iPhone. What is your favorite app? Notes. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? The COVID pandemic.
What change would you like to see in the world?
Greater empathy.
What message do you want to send out into the world? Don’t take life too seriously. What mega-trend most excites you? Global connection. What mega-trend most concerns you? Cyber bullying.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Sister Griggs. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Gabrielle Union. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? Jesus Christ. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A fashion designer. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? In the Caribbean, with my family and friends, laughing. What advice would you give your younger self? It will be fine.
Personal mission: I exist to serve by igniting inspiration. Personal motto: When I walk in my purpose, abundance is guaranteed. Favorite quote: “No act of kindness is ever wasted” (Aesop). Desired epitaph: No regrets.
