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Where are you from? My hometown is Belle Rose, Louisiana. My family relocated to Laplace in 1965.

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I was educated in the St. John Parish Public schools. I was part of the first group to integrate John L Ory elementary. I am a Class of 1976 graduate of Leon Godchaux High School. In August 1976, I began my college career at Nicholls State in Thibodaux. In January 1978 I transferred to the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette. In December 1980, I received a B.S. degree in Business Administration.

Who are some black role models you look up to, and why? My black role models were my grandfather Freddie August, Sr, my pastor, Rev. Philip Sherman and Mr. C.J. Watkins (a strong leader in the black community).

What does Black History Month mean to you? Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on our past; the good, the bad and the ugly. I see it as an opportunity to use the experiences of the past as motivation for our future, which we have opportunity to greatly influence individually and collectively.

Why is it important to encourage diversity? It is important to encourage diversity because we all have to live here together. Yes, we have differences and are different in many ways, but properly respecting those differences is of the utmost importance. At the same time, no one should be forced to accept those differences to the point of trying to exist in an uncomfortable or unpleasant environment.

What changes would you like to see in the local community? Division has hindered and hurt our community greatly through the years. Politically, Socially, Racially and Economically we have become so polarized that when we talk about this community, we have to clarify what group, aspect, etc. we are discussing. By some move of God we must come to the realization that a house divided against itself cannot stand. Leadership must work for the common good of all people. And all people must work together for the common good of each other. That way we can all prosper and exist together in peace and unity.