CCI faculty member Chanta Haywood was recently featured in Tallahassee Woman magazine.

Dr. Haywood was featured in the cover piece, titled, “Super Heroes,” alongside five other influential women from the Tallahassee community. In her piece, Dr. Haywood spoke on her experiences, her commitment to inspiring future leaders, and her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She told CCI, “For years, TWM has featured women who have made our community the amazing place that it is. I especially admire Dr. Michelle Mitcham’s vision for celebrating these accomplishments, so to be on the cover is an absolute honor.”

Dr. Haywood is an experienced higher education professional, having served in a variety of roles over the past twenty years. She currently serves as a full-time faculty member within CCI, in addition to owning her own business, A.C.E College Success Academy. Additionally, Dr. Haywood recently interviewed singer and actress Keke Palmer on her visit to FSU.

When it comes to advice for student leaders, Dr. Haywood encourages students to think outside the box of what it traditionally means to be a “leader.” She told CCI, “Many times students perceive leaders to be those who are out front, or who have titles like “President” or “Vice-President”. I want students to know that they can lead from the ranks too. Our Marching Chiefs, for example, have talented drum majors who work hard to achieve that distinction, but their role is meaningless without those in the ranks. Each member of the band plays an instrument that collectively makes the sound we enjoy in the stands. They all “lead” us to get excited about our team and school. So, I will tell our future leaders that in their own individual ways, they can make a difference whether they are out front or in the background. Just have a vision and be willing to execute it.”

Dr. Haywood is proud of the work that CCI has put forth to empower student leaders, and passionate about continuing to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion with the College. She told CCI, “As we continue to work on equity, diversity and inclusion, we will empower students more by shaping their world views in ways that celebrate and engage difference.”

To read the feature in full, visit https://talwoman.com/february-march-2022-super-heroes/