The life and leadership lesson, I have learned is that true fortitude is not measured by how high we climb, but by how many hands we extend as we rise. Mary Church Terrell's mantra "Lifting as We Climb" echoes the biblical truth that "as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17), reminding us that our strength is perfected in service to others. Just as Aaron and Hur held up Moses' weary arms until victory was won, we are called to bear one another's burdens and fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). Real fortitude means having the humility to remember who helped us, the vision to see beyond our own summit, the courage to stand for justice, and the perseverance to keep lifting even when the climb is hard. Your success becomes sacred when it serves as a stepping stone for someone else, your strength becomes holy when it shields the vulnerable, and your legacy will be counted not in heights reached alone, but in the hands you extended and the lives you lifted into the light.

One leadership lesson or life lesson Delta has taught me that I carry with me today is that I can ask for help without my competence being questioned. I was raised to be extremely self-reliant and hyper-independent. Being the oldest of four allows me to be of assistance to many — sometimes without reciprocation. I have learned that leaning on others is not evidence of being incapable of completing an assignment, but it’s representation of humanity. It’s beautiful to be of service in an organization where you can rely on others when you are overwhelmed or might lack certain insight. Needing help isn’t a weakness, not acknowledging that you need help can be detrimental though. Let’s renew our commitment by continuing to lean on one another.

1. What is one leadership lesson or life lesson Delta has taught me that I carry with me today?

Delta has taught me that true leadership is rooted in service, sisterhood, and self-awareness. Leadership isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about showing up with integrity, compassion, and courage. I’ve learned that strength doesn’t always look like standing in front; it often looks like lifting others beside you. Through Delta, I’ve embraced the power of collective purpose: when we lead with love, humility, and accountability, we create lasting impact that extends far beyond ourselves.

When I need to renew my energy, I listen to "I Told The Storm" by Greg O'Quin N' Joyful Noize. It helps to remind me that troubles don't last always and that I have overcome hard times before.

3. What part of myself, my voice, or my Delta journey am I reclaiming this year?

This year, I’m reclaiming my joy, the part of me that celebrates the process, not just the outcome. I’m embracing the fullness of my Delta journey, from the lessons to the laughter, from service to sisterhood. I’m reclaiming the confidence to lead boldly, love deeply, and serve with renewed grace and purpose, always remembering that NMAC is Home.

One leadership lesson Delta has taught me is that it truly takes a village. I’ve learned that real leadership isn’t about doing everything on your own, but it’s about leaning on the strength, wisdom, and support of your sisters. Delta showed me that collective power, shared responsibility, and uplifting one another create an impact that no one person could ever make alone.

2. What word, mantra, or practice renews my energy when things get hard?

My mantra is “Let go and let God.” It reminds me to release what I can’t control and to trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should. When things get hard, I pause, pray, and root myself in gratitude, remembering that grace, faith, and purpose have always carried me through.