A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul
More Liberating Stories and Memories to Inspire Females of Color
Mental Health Expert and Scholar Shares Her Story of Triumph Over Pain
Dr. Renée L. Garraway
Dr. Mike Robinson: What is the name of your chapter in the book A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul: More Liberating Stories and Memories to Inspire Females of Color?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: The name of my chapter is entitled, The Story of a Champion: Pain Always Has a Purpose.
Dr. Mike Robinson: Why did you decide to share your story in A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul: More Liberating Stories and Memories to Inspire Females of Color?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: I decided to share my story to inspire other females of color who may be going through similar trials. People of color need to understand that we are not alone in our journey. As an educational leader and mental health consultant, I strive to have a positive impact on those I encounter and to help them realize that regardless of obstacles they can overcome. At the end of my chapter, I wrote a poem on how to become a champion.
Dr. Mike Robinson: What do you hope the readers of your chapter take away after reading your story?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: I hope readers understand that we are not defined by what happens to us. One of my favorite quotes is by Booker T. Washington- "Character, not circumstances, makes the man." I am blessed to be a successful Black woman and in spite of obstacles and pain, I realize that my story has a purpose.
Dr. Mike Robinson: Why is it so important for Females of Color to share their stories?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: Females of color need to share their stories because society often makes us feel less than human. It is very difficult trying to "find our place" in this world, yet without strong Black females, the world would be incomplete. I mentor children of color and want them to have hope and confidence that they also can obtain success. Our stories can inspire others and give them hope for a positive future.
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: The name of my chapter is entitled, The Story of a Champion: Pain Always Has a Purpose.
Dr. Mike Robinson: Why did you decide to share your story in A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul: More Liberating Stories and Memories to Inspire Females of Color?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: I decided to share my story to inspire other females of color who may be going through similar trials. People of color need to understand that we are not alone in our journey. As an educational leader and mental health consultant, I strive to have a positive impact on those I encounter and to help them realize that regardless of obstacles they can overcome. At the end of my chapter, I wrote a poem on how to become a champion.
Dr. Mike Robinson: What do you hope the readers of your chapter take away after reading your story?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: I hope readers understand that we are not defined by what happens to us. One of my favorite quotes is by Booker T. Washington- "Character, not circumstances, makes the man." I am blessed to be a successful Black woman and in spite of obstacles and pain, I realize that my story has a purpose.
Dr. Mike Robinson: Why is it so important for Females of Color to share their stories?
Dr. Renée L. Garraway: Females of color need to share their stories because society often makes us feel less than human. It is very difficult trying to "find our place" in this world, yet without strong Black females, the world would be incomplete. I mentor children of color and want them to have hope and confidence that they also can obtain success. Our stories can inspire others and give them hope for a positive future.
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What You Need To Know About Dr. Renee L. Garraway
Renee L. Garraway, Ed.D., MA, MSW, LCSW-C has over 25 years of diverse work experience in clinical social work, special education, and school-based administration. She successfully defended her dissertation in March 2019 at Bowie State University. Dr. Garraway is currently serving as an adjunct professor, educational consultant, and early childhood mental health consultant. Her research interest is on the experiences of culturally and linguistically diverse students with disabilities; culturally responsive leadership; and cross-cultural competence in mental health. Her work has been accepted for presentations at national and international conferences as well as several books and journal publications. Dr. Garraway believes that her teaching, social work, and leadership experiences have provided fuel for her purpose and she is committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or exceptional abilities
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A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul
More Liberating Stories and Memories to Inspire Females of Color 
A Second Helping of Gumbo for the Soul is a collection of essays, stories, and narratives designed to inspire and empower women of color through the use of storytelling and narratives. This second edition is a sequel to the first Gumbo for the Soul and includes more...
Edited by: Michelle Trotman Scott, University of West Georgia Nicole McZeal Walters, University of St. Thomas-Houston Dr. Jemimah L. Young, University of North Texas Donna Y. Ford Ph.D., Ohio State University Click here to order your copy |
