I will never forget the day my mother graduated nursing school. I was just five years old, standing in the audience with my family, my little hands gripping my father’s arm. As I watched her walk across the stage to receive her diploma, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and awe. My mom, Diane Suttle, had worked tirelessly to become a nurse, and that moment was the culmination of years of sacrifice and determination. I didn’t fully understand the weight of it then, but I knew she was doing something incredibly important, something that mattered—not just for her, but for everyone she cared for. Throughout her career, my mom was a beacon of hope for thousands of mothers and babies. As a NICU nurse, she saved lives daily, comforting families in their most desperate times of need. I grew up hearing stories of the babies she helped bring into the world, each life a testament to her skill and her compassion. She didn’t just provide medical care—she offered solace, hope, and love. Her work was more than a job; it was a calling. And even beyond the NICU, she made an impact as a CPR instructor with the Red Cross, teaching life-saving techniques to empower others to help when the need arose. The most inspiring of all was her calling as the first African American flight nurse on Parkview Health’s Samaritan, the trauma and emergency care helicopter. In an era when women of color were often overlooked, my mom broke barriers with grace, proving that her value wasn’t defined by the color of her skin but by the heart and skill she brought to her work. I watched my mom navigate these incredible achievements with a quiet humility. She didn’t seek the spotlight or accolades; she simply wanted to make a difference. Her dedication to her patients, to her community, and to her family was unwavering. She was an embodiment of strength and selflessness, a role model for anyone who sought to help others. My mom showed me that true leadership isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about the lives you touch and the difference you make. When my mom passed from cancer in 2019, my world felt as though it had lost its anchor. The pain of losing her was unimaginable, and the grief was all-consuming. But in the midst of that loss, I realized something profound: my mom’s legacy wasn’t just in the lives she saved or the groundbreaking work she did. Her legacy was in the example she set—a life lived with purpose, compassion, and relentless dedication to others. And I knew that I had to carry that legacy forward. Her passing ignited a fire in me, a determination to break barriers of my own, just as she had done. I want to honor her memory by empowering others—particularly women and girls of color—by creating opportunities in the fields of sustainability and innovation. I believe that the work I do in the electric vehicle sector and renewable energy can help pave the way for a cleaner, more equitable future, and that’s the kind of impact my mom would be proud of. She taught me the importance of resilience, of never giving up, and of using every opportunity to uplift others. As I continue my journey and lean into my commitment to community empowerment through my studies at Harvard—I carry my mom’s spirit with me every step of the way. She was my first inspiration, and every goal I pursue is a tribute to her life, her work, and the extraordinary impact she had on this world.

Balancing work, caregiving, and pursuing personal ambitions has been one of the most significant challenges and learning experiences of my life. At the age of 19, I became a young mother, and that moment shifted the trajectory of my life in ways I never expected. My dreams and career goals, which once seemed limitless, had to be postponed as I focused on raising my children, providing for them, and ensuring they had every opportunity to succeed. For years, I put their needs first, always prioritizing their well-being and development over my own professional aspirations. This decision wasn’t easy, and it often felt like a sacrifice, but it was one I made with conviction. I poured my energy into being the best mother I could be, juggling the demands of parenthood, work, and self-sacrifice. As a young woman navigating these responsibilities, I learned resilience, patience, and the importance of perseverance. While it meant that I had to defer some of my dreams—like returning to school and advancing my career—it also shaped my understanding of what truly matters: the opportunity to build a better future for my family. However, life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way. A sudden divorce from my high school sweetheart, a person I had planned to spend my life with, was a major turning point in my journey. It shook my sense of stability and added emotional complexity to the already difficult balance of work and caregiving. Then, just as I was beginning to regain my footing, I faced the devastating loss of both of my parents. Losing them both within the span of a decade felt like losing the anchor that had always grounded me; the only foundation I had known. The passing of my Mama and Daddy deeply affected me, but it also strengthened my resolve to honor their memory by pushing forward in pursuit of my dreams. As my children grew older and became more independent, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. I realized that the time had come for me to pursue my own dreams again, not just for myself, but also as a role model for my children. Returning to school at Harvard University later in life was both an exhilarating and daunting experience. It was a chance to reconnect with my academic passions and professional ambitions, but it also came with its challenges. Balancing the rigorous demands of coursework, family responsibilities, and my professional commitments required me to be intentional with my time and energy. There were moments when the weight of everything felt overwhelming, but I pushed forward, fueled by my desire to create a lasting impact in the fields of sustainability and innovation. My journey of balancing work, caregiving, and personal growth has profoundly shaped my career goals. I now approach my work with a deeper sense of purpose, driven by the understanding that the work I do can not only create a sustainable future but also empower the next generation; especially women and families like mine. I’m committed to integrating sustainability into both my personal and professional life, working to ensure that opportunities for success and environmental justice are available to all, especially those in underserved communities. Returning to school at Harvard University and balancing my family life has reminded me that dreams are not linear, and the path to success is not always clear-cut. But it has also taught me that with determination, resilience, and a strong support system, I can continue to move forward, breaking barriers for both myself and the generations that follow…and I intend to do just that!

As a child, I was captivated by the Dawn dish soap commercials that showed workers gently washing oil-soaked ducks and otters after catastrophic spills. I would sit wide-eyed in front of the TV, watching each animal be restored, wondering how something so simple as soap and water could undo such devastation. Those images stuck with me, sparking a curiosity about the environment and an early understanding of the human impact on the planet. Even then, I felt a pull to protect what was precious and fragile. I wanted to do more than watch—I wanted to be part of the solution. That spark grew into a passion for addressing the environmental challenges of our time, particularly the way our reliance on fossil fuels has endangered both ecosystems and communities. This led me to focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy as powerful tools in the fight against climate change. EVs reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on oil, addressing the root causes of those oil spills I saw as a girl. Pairing this technology with renewable energy sources like solar and wind creates a cleaner, more sustainable future while mitigating the impacts of climate change. I realized, however, that progress alone is not enough. The benefits of these innovations often bypass marginalized communities—the same ones most vulnerable to environmental harm. This realization fueled my drive to bridge the gap between sustainability and equity. I founded Black Girls With Teslas to empower minority women through mentorship, resources, and advocacy in the EV space, ensuring that underrepresented voices are part of the conversation and the solution. Returning to school at Harvard has deepened my ability to champion these efforts. Through rigorous coursework, I’ve gained tools to advance EV adoption, green energy solutions, and infrastructure in underserved communities. My work with change agent organizations like The City of Fort Wayne, Orchard Collaborative, The YMCA, Better Together Brain Trust, Black Girls With Teslas, Vincent Village, and the City of Boston further equips me to make an impact by reducing charging deserts and expanding renewable energy access to low income communities. What began as a childhood fascination with rescuing animals has evolved into a lifelong commitment to protecting the planet and the people on it. I’m driven to address climate change while creating opportunities for all communities to thrive in a sustainable future. Every project, partnership, and policy I pursue is another step toward the vision that inspired me as a little girl sitting in front of the TV, determined to make a difference.

Google Environmental Insights Explorer (EIE) is an invaluable tool that enhances my understanding of green energy and sustainability. EIE provides granular data on carbon emissions, solar potential, and energy usage in cities worldwide. Its ability to identify urban carbon footprints and renewable energy opportunities equips me to design tailored solutions for reducing emissions. For example, EIE’s solar potential feature allows me to pinpoint rooftops ideal for solar installations, which I’ve utilized when consulting on renewable energy initiatives in underserved communities. Charging platforms like ChargePoint and Electrify America are equally essential for navigating the evolving EV landscape. ChargePoint offers real-time data on charging station locations, usage patterns, and energy output, enabling me to assess infrastructure gaps and propose solutions for charging deserts in marginalized areas. Electrify America complements this with a focus on ultra-fast charging and community-driven programs, demonstrating how equity and innovation can go hand in hand. These platforms inspire practical applications for addressing the barriers to widespread EV adoption. Rewiring America is another powerful resource, providing actionable insights and policy recommendations for electrification. Their tools, such as the Savings Calculator and Electrification Planner, help me advocate for accessible solutions like heat pumps, rooftop solar, and EV integration. By focusing on cost savings and environmental benefits, Rewiring America empowers communities to transition to carbon neutrality while addressing energy inequities. From the Department of Energy (DOE), I utilize resources like the Energy Justice Mapping Tool and the Alternative Fuels Data Center. These tools allow me to visualize disparities in energy access and develop equity-focused strategies for renewable energy adoption. DOE publications, reports, and webinars offer comprehensive insights into emerging technologies like advanced battery systems and hydrogen energy, broadening my perspective on scalable green solutions. Podcasts like Good Energy by RE+ have become invaluable for staying connected to the latest trends and thought leadership in renewable energy. Featuring experts and innovators in solar, wind, and storage technologies, this podcast inspires me to align my work with industry best practices and forward-thinking ideas. Harvard platforms such as Canvas and the Harvard Library provide the academic foundation for my work. Through courses like Sustainability Leadership for the Twenty-First Century and ENVR E-117, I access lectures, case studies, and cutting-edge research that bridge theory with practice. These platforms challenge me to think critically and act decisively in driving sustainability initiatives. Interactive tools like En-ROADS and Project Drawdown’s Climate Solutions Calculator allow me to model the potential outcomes of green energy interventions. Combined with ArcGIS for spatial analysis and BloombergNEF for market trends, these resources enable me to design comprehensive strategies with measurable impact. Together, these platforms, tools, and resources inform my approach to sustainability and innovation. They empower me to create equitable, data-driven solutions that drive environmental progress and ensure that the benefits of green energy extend to everyone.

I often think about the first time I pulled up to charge my electric vehicle. The hum of progress filled the air, yet something was missing…people who looked like me. As I plugged in my car, I couldn’t help but notice the stark absence of diversity in a space that represents the future. That moment ignited a passion in me not just to embrace this technology, but to make it more accessible, equitable, and transformative for those who have been excluded from such advancements for far too long. Electric vehicles (EVs) inspire me because they represent more than just innovation; they hold the power to rewrite the narrative of environmental justice, economic mobility, and sustainability. For decades, our communities bore the brunt of environmental harm caused by fossil fuel dependency. EVs offer a different vision: cleaner air, healthier neighborhoods, and an opportunity to be part of a global movement to combat climate change. What excites me most is the ecosystem EVs create. This isn’t just about cars; it’s about building renewable energy partnerships, developing cutting-edge battery technologies like sodium-ion, and addressing inequities in charging infrastructure. In communities historically left behind, charging stations don’t just represent energy access; they symbolize hope and inclusion. As the founder of Black Girls With Teslas, I see how this technology inspires empowerment. For many, an EV is more than a vehicle: it is a statement of progress, a step toward equity, and a way to reclaim our role in the fight for sustainability. There are challenges. Charging deserts persist, grid upgrades are necessary, and battery recycling must improve. Yet, these obstacles are opportunities to push boundaries and drive innovation. EVs remind me that the road forward isn’t about simply traveling to a destination. It’s about transforming the journey itself; empowering communities, fostering equity, and ensuring that the promise of sustainability is realized for everyone. Every time I drive my EV, I’m reminded that this is bigger than me. It’s about leaving a legacy where the future isn’t just sustainable…it’s inclusive, equitable, and brighter for all.

Success, for me, is about creating a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and sustainable impact—for my children, my community, and the planet. As a single mom who returned to school at Harvard Extension to study Sustainability and Innovation, I see success not just as personal achievement but as a reflection of the doors I’ve opened for others. It means showing my children, especially my daughter, that pursuing dreams at any stage of life is possible and that we have the power to shape a better future. This journey back to academia has been fueled by my passion for sustainability and my commitment to equity. Working in EV infrastructure and renewable energy has given me the tools to address systemic challenges like energy inequity and environmental justice. However, returning to school is about sharpening my ability to create meaningful, large-scale change. I want to ensure that the solutions I design not only reduce carbon emissions but also uplift communities, particularly those often overlooked in conversations about innovation and sustainability. Success also looks like being able to bridge my professional expertise and lived experiences to inspire others. As a Black woman in sustainability, I am deeply aware of the unique perspective I bring to this field. I’ve faced challenges and barriers, but I’ve also learned the power of resilience. By earning my degree from Harvard, I aim to amplify my voice and gain the knowledge and credibility to lead transformative initiatives that will leave an enduring impact—whether it’s through developing green energy partnerships, scaling EV infrastructure, or advocating for environmental policies that prioritize equity. This opportunity to study at Harvard Extension School, particularly in courses like Sustainability in the 21st Century with Leith Sharp, provides the foundation I need to achieve my vision of success. It equips me with cutting-edge strategies and frameworks to drive systems change while connecting me with a network of changemakers who share my values. Learning from leaders who’ve redefined what’s possible in sustainability inspires me to think boldly and act decisively in my own work. Ultimately, success is about balance—building a thriving professional career while being present for my children and teaching them the importance of perseverance and purpose. I want my children to see that success isn’t defined solely by titles or accolades but by the impact we make and the lives we touch. I envision a future where we live debt-free, in a home filled with love and possibility, where my work in sustainability creates opportunities for others to thrive. This opportunity isn’t just a stepping stone for me; it’s a catalyst for change. By pursuing my studies at Harvard, I’m taking a crucial step toward becoming the leader, mother, and advocate I aspire to be. My studies and lived experiences have taught me that sustainability is not just about preserving the environment; it’s about empowering communities, addressing inequities, and restoring balance to our world. Success means leaving a world where my children—and all children—can dream bigger, breathe cleaner, and live in harmony with the planet. That is the pertinence of the legacy I’m determined to build.

Understanding the nature of our universe is essential because it not only deepens our connection to the intricate systems that sustain life but also empowers us to address the urgent environmental challenges facing our planet. As a Black woman studying Sustainability and Innovation at Harvard Extension School, and currently enrolled in ENVR E-117 Sustainability in the 21st Century with Leith Sharp—a pioneer who transformed Harvard into the greenest campus in the world—I am inspired to integrate the universe’s principles of balance, regeneration, and equity into the solutions I create. My work in EV infrastructure, sustainability, and renewable energy technologies has shown me that understanding the universe’s systems is key to unlocking innovations that reflect the resilience and harmony found in nature. The cycles of energy flow, resource renewal, and adaptive evolution that govern ecosystems serve as a profound blueprint for reimagining how we design, build, and sustain human systems. For example, the boundless potential of solar energy mirrors the universe’s inherent abundance and inspires creative approaches to solving global challenges, such as ensuring equitable access to clean energy and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation. Through initiatives like founding Black Girls With Teslas and working to eliminate EV charging deserts, I’ve witnessed how environmental justice is intrinsically tied to understanding the universe’s interconnectivity. Marginalized communities, particularly Black and Brown communities, bear the greatest burden of environmental degradation while often being excluded from the conversation. This inequity compels me to bring compassion and equity to every solution I advocate, ensuring that sustainability is a bridge to opportunity and resilience for all. Leith Sharp’s teachings in ENVR E-117 have underscored the transformative potential of systemic change, which aligns deeply with my values and my vision for the future. Her emphasis on collaboration and bold leadership mirrors the approach I take in my work—bringing together diverse voices to create solutions that reflect the complexity and interdependence of our universe. Just as she demonstrated the power of driving sustainability at scale at Harvard, I aim to bring similar transformative change to the sectors I touch, from renewable energy partnerships to green mobility strategies. To achieve this, I draw on principles of biomimicry, systems thinking, and regenerative practices. Biomimicry offers a model for designing solutions inspired by nature’s elegance and efficiency, such as creating EV networks that mirror the seamless interconnectedness of natural ecosystems. Systems thinking helps me anticipate the ripple effects of every action, while regenerative practices guide me toward solutions that heal and replenish rather than simply sustain. Understanding the universe also means understanding ourselves—our potential for innovation, our responsibility to future generations, and our ability to live in harmony with the planet. My studies and lived experiences have taught me that sustainability is not just about preserving the environment; it’s about empowering communities, addressing inequities, and restoring balance to our world. By aligning our actions with the wisdom of the universe, we can create a legacy of resilience, abundance, and compassion that will endure for centuries to come.

“Keep shining and as always…be amazing!” That was my outro every time I cracked the microphone at B96.9FM for years. It inspired listeners and left them with hope, yet there was a time when I felt lost despite using my voice to uplift others. My career as a radio personality allowed me to connect and inspire, but somewhere along the way, I lost my connection to God’s voice: and my own purpose. While I motivated others, I had drifted from my deeper calling. I poured into everyone else’s dreams, especially my children’s, ensuring my daughter was admitted into the top private school and son graduated from Florida State University debt-free, but I had neglected my own. The turning point came when I lost my mother to cancer. Her death, coupled with the realization that I was not living out my own dreams, propelled me to realign my life with God’s plan. This journey wasn’t easy. Accepting my grief and rediscovering my purpose challenged me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. But through faith, family, and fortitude, I found the strength to step into something greater. Reconnecting with God’s voice and leaning in gave me the confidence to pursue my education this Fall semester at Harvard University in the Sustainability & Innovation degree program. As a single mother, my journey to Harvard has been defined by resilience and determination. Balancing the demands of motherhood, starting as an educator at Amp Lab, entrepreneurship, and being a student has tested me, but it’s also taught me that with faith and the will to persevere, anything is possible. One of my greatest challenges has been juggling the emotional, physical, and educational needs of my child while keeping up with my studies and career. Long nights of homework, extracurricular activities, and financial responsibilities often left me feeling pulled in a thousand directions. Add the pressures of studying at an Ivy League university, and life could feel overwhelming. But these struggles fueled my desire to succeed, not just for myself, but for my children. What keeps me going is my commitment to building a legacy of resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. I want to be remembered as someone who faced the odds but refused to back down. I hope my journey inspires other women—especially single mothers—proving that it’s possible to dream big and achieve those dreams, even when the road seems impossible. Through my work in sustainability and empowering women and girls, I aim to leave a legacy grounded in dedication, community, and purpose-driven action. Most importantly, I truly want my children to look back and see the strength in my journey. I want them to say that I was resilient, not because I never failed, but because I never let failure stop or define me. I hope they recognize that true resilience lies in the courage to keep going, the integrity to create impact, the strength to find joy, and the deeper connection to faith, no matter what life throws their way.