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2007 Dada Rafiki honorees describe what brings fulfillment in what they do...

Claudia Abercrumbie, President, The Abercrumbie Group

"The mission of The Abercrumbie Group is the help organizations achieve their objectives and positively affect the lives of others. We do this by offering world class service in Event Management, Tradeshow Management, and Fund Development. When we plan a conference that ultimately benefits after school programs, manage a company’s participation in tradeshows that support supplier diversity, or raise money to fund a project that commemorates African Americans in history, we are fulfilled because we are helping organizations make a difference in the lives of others".

Barbara Anderson, Substitute Teacher, Cincinnati Public Schools and Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), ProKids

"Helping children realize their own potential and gifts. Helping them understand that their destiny is in their hand; that they must try and the only road block to their success is themselves."

Maria-Rosa Arbona, Biology Teacher, Science Chair, Saint Ursula Academy

"I know that I am contributing to the education of young women. I challenge them to be critical thinkers, capable of making informed opinions, of embracing and committing to causes larger than themselves, and expressing what they believe with both conviction and respect. I expect no less than their best and encourage them to use their gifts, to dream big, and act in any way they possibly can to begin to make a difference".

Christine L. Askew , Children Services Manager, Hamilton County Jobs & Family Services & Mental Health Specialist, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

"I always wanted to make the world a better place for children.
I find my job fulfilling because I can see it’s positive effects.
Daily I am able to assist children in receiving appropriate services to meet their educational, physical, and mental health needs."

Alma Bartos, Director, Cincinnati Spanish Academy

"At CSA we have a commitment to highlighting the importance of a second language education in a natural setting. We love to enrich children’s lives by giving them the gift of a second language. In this manner creating understanding to other cultures and respect to differences among the citizens of the world".

LaVerne M. Briggs , CEO and Educational Director, Nanny’s MultiLevel Learning Center, Inc.

"Children eager to learn in a safe and happy environment gives me an overwhelming sense of pride. Each year at our annual graduation ceremony, parents and family members watch their children demonstrate their abilities, proving they are well prepared for the challenges that face them in kindergarten and beyond. I cherish the opportunity to lead an institution committed to molding and shaping the young minds of our future leaders and parents.. This is what gives me fulfillment. This still fulfilling to me as and elder of 77 years of age."

Padma Chebrolu, President, Artistic Director, Cultural Centre of India

"Education I have received in various art forms also brought me the responsibility to share it with the children and community around me. This responsibility is a complete joy and an inspiration that keeps me energized. It is so important for our youth to be in positive and creative environment to sustain their innocence and lay the peaceful and strong foundation for their future generations. My contribution to this concept brings me fulfillment."

Omope Carter Daboiku, Director, Homeside Cultural Programming

"My work as a repository for stories lets me channel ancient knowledge to contemporary audiences, providing alternative perspectives for problem solving and moral development".

Julie Elkus, Executive Director, Reading for LIfe, Inc.

"The simple act of a parent reading to a child has tremendous power. Reading to young children not only helps them develop essential school readiness skills, it enables them to dream and imagine. Perhaps of greatest importance, it strengthens the bond of love and nurturing between parent and child. Creating beautiful books for parents and children to enjoy together and providing them to families with few resources to buy books of their own is extremely fulfilling."

Mrs. Tyree M. Gaines, Assistant Director for Recruitment and Retention, Roger Bacon High School

"True fulfillment comes in knowing that my past was never my barrier, but my travel kit. When I encounter students from all walks of life, in all situations, I am confident that I have tools in my travel kit that can mend a broken child who cannot see; nor believe that they can accomplish anything! I know I have the tools and I am not afraid to use them".

Kathryne Gardette, Creative Idealist, Artist and Businesswoman committed to numerous organizations reflecting my passion for the arts, education and community development

"It is said to give less than your best is to sacrifice the gift. Many times my gift is expressed as the connector between person to person; person to organization and organization to organization. The outcome of these connections provides partnerships and collaborations that promote community well being."

Camille Graham, MD, President and Pediatrician, Mid-City Pediatrics, Inc.

"I love watching children grow and develop and guiding parents on that journey. I love creating an environment where their children will feel comfortable and receive the best health care possible. I like working with the other members of our team in improving outcomes and the delivery of health care. I like the mental stimulation of medicine – things are always changing, and there are always new discoveries and ways of doing things. The internet has improved our dialogue with parents, who now have much more access to information than our parents did.

Most of all, I like to empower children to take charge of their own health so that by the time they are adults, they have enough knowledge to maintain optimum health. The best reward is if a child says, “I want to go to the doctor” because the child feels something is wrong or if the child wants more information from the doctor or nurse."

Tamara Harkavy, Executive Director, Artworks

"I believe that I have the best job in the city. I am doing what I love doing – making an impact in the city using the arts as a vehicle. Working with professional artists and teens, and range of community constituencies, to produce art that has an enormous impact on the city.

Whether the works produced are seen by millions (the Big Pig Gig) or by smaller groups of people (Cincinnati Action Association Mural) we have the satisfaction of knowing that through a creative vision, employing teens and professional artists, ArtWorks has been able to make a real impact on the lives of many Cincinnatians".

Sharon D. Johnson, Principal, Withrow University High School

"Personally, the result of fulfillment occurs when I can see the impact that I have had on the lives of others. When a student returns as a college freshman, and gives a reflection of how Withrow University has had a significant impact on their life, I am fulfilled. When an educator is influenced by my example, and continues to persist to obtain student achievement, without offering or accepting any excuses, I am fulfilled."

Jane Keller, President/CEO, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative

"What could possibly top helping young people aspire to their dreams; dreams that give them hope and the hope that keeps their spirit strong. My role with the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative provides me an avenue to help young people understand the importance of education [graduating from high school and taking steps to post secondary options) to their future success. Everyday I work with “the dream makers”, volunteers, who help kids light the path to their dreams. I am continually inspired by these individuals’ spirit of humanity, kindness and compassion for helping young people."

Jacqueline A. Kinard, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist

"I am humbled that others trust and respect me enough to share the hurts and problems of their own and of their precious children. I am most fulfilled when I can help them find hope and a sense of empowerment. And to see children succeed with dignity, integrity and personal fulfillment in an increasingly difficult world ALWAYS makes me smile!"

Priscilla Nash, Executive Committee Member, Family & Children First Council and School Community Coordinator, Cincinnati Public Schools

"What brings me fulfillment is to nurture a relationship to the point of trust so that I can be that bridge to infinite possibilities. When I facilitate the growth of children and families, I am able to see my own purpose. Because of what I have learned in my own life experiences I am now able to “pay it forward”.

Ms. Inyeai Ororokuma, JD, Career Paths Consultant, Cincinnati Public Schools

"Ms. Ororokuma aka Ms. O, is dedicated to the service of children and their families whether in the courtroom or classroom, she advocated for the best interest of Cincinnati’s Youth. “When there is a will there is a way.”

Betty Rodriques, Principal Frederick Douglass School, Cincinnati Public Schools

"My greatest fulfillment comes from making a difference in each and every life that I touch and in particular, the lives of children. It gives me the greatest joy when I can see children set goals, realize their greatness and accomplish their dreams."

Abby S. Schwartz, Arts Education Consultant

During my 28 years in museum education at the Taft Museum of Art, first as a volunteer, and then as a staff member, I found fulfillment in the “teachable moments”—those times when a young child saw the connection between the beautiful Chinese porcelain plates in our collection and her grandmother’s good dishes at home; or when a senior adult suffering with Alzheimers recalled fond memories sparked by a painting of a view of Venice.
The opportunity to teach and impart knowledge about art objects, whether working with children or adults, has always brought me fulfillment. I love watching people figure out the many ways that art is connected to their lives.

Mrs. Paula J. Sherman, Educator, Cincinnati College Preparatory School

"My 15 years of working with youth has brought me so much joy. Just knowing that I made a difference in a child’s life, or that they believed in me and trusted my wisdom encourages me to continue on my journey. I was told that “Good meat makes its own gravy”. I’m blessed to say that my pot runneth over!"

Arnice Smith, Children's Librarian, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County

"The joy of seeing the smile on one of “my” kid’s faces when they recognize me outside of the library is priceless. I am fondly called ‘their library teacher’ or Miss Arnice. Knowing that I have made an IMPACT and a memorable experience in their lives makes the long days and nights all worthwhile."

Dr. Marian Alexander Spencer, Dr. of Humane Letters (Honorary), University of Cincinnati

1. Seeing success in all our youth
2. Seeing justice in our courts.
3. Seeing public education ethnically diverse and highly competitive
4. Seeing democratic voting processes honestly administered, economically accessible and 100% utilized by 18 to 80 year olds!

Cleaster Whitehurst-Mims, President/CEO, Marva Collins Prep School of Cincinnati, Inc. Cleaster Mims International Boarding School, dba

"At the end of each day, when I’ve inspired and challenged a child to become a more rational, literate and self-confident human being, I feel spiritual wholeness. When children demonstrate a love for reading and learning, a respect for self and others, and a willingness to share their knowledge, I experience an inexpressible fulfillment."

Tracy L. Wilson, Director of Community Relations, Cincinnati Opera

"I love sharing the gift of an arts experience with those who would otherwise not have them and creating, developing, and programming arts events that excite, emotionally engage, and positively influences a broad and diverse community.

Whether I’m producing programs like the Community Open Dress Rehearsal (CODR) and Opera Goes to Church! for Cincinnati Opera, the Mayor’s 801 Plum Concerts for Linton Music, or coordinating entertainment or a talent contest for the Over-the-Rhine Community Festival or the College Hill Rhythm Race, I’m always thinking about what kind of phenomenal arts and entertainment experience I can provide for people in the community. Bearing witness to their reactions to the experience is priceless and the most fun for me".

Gwendolyn R. Womack , Director / Teacher, Life Skills: Work & Family Program
GRADS Program, Taft Information Technology High School

"Mrs. Womack is an ambassador and advocate for the students she interacts with. She has a love and passion for teaching. Her dedication is to instill in students a strong drive to achieve and be the best. She strongly believes that your community does not "DICTATE your future -- it's a COP OUT. It is your choice!" She allows students to experience bumps in the road in order for them to grow stronger. She receives a lot of gratification when she sees her student succeed in their endeavors."