Her Story
About LaShonda
LaShonda Cartwright serves as the town's Planning and Marketing Coordinator, director of the town's non-profit WDI, and Main Street's Director under the Department of Commerce for the state. With over two and a half years in her current economic development roles and extensive prior experience in government and state positions, including more than 10 years as a 911 dispatcher, she works to bring new businesses to the town, market the community, and plan major events. Her typical day involves walking the streets, assessing buildings, engaging investors, and collaborating with clients. She holds a business degree from Pitt Community College, degrees in computer networking and Computer Science from ECPI College of Technology, and clerk credentials from the School of Government. She is a certified county clerk, notary, mobile notary, notary signing agent, and house inspector, with additional training in CIT and hospice negotiation. Her career reflects a passion for history, growth, development, and positive community impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LaShonda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think what I would say is my grandma. Her... I wouldn't say I... attribute to my grandmother, and how she was with me, and how she brought me up, she raised me, and it's kind of like a tribute to her. I wanted to make her proud.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't take anything personal. And... Every day will be different. Don't let the challenges define who you are and who you want to be.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them, do not give up. You can do it, because this field is mostly a male-dominated role. Believe in yourself. Every day is not easy, but it's definitely a goal worth achieving.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Biggest challenges is Funding. Lack of funding, resources... The hurdles of infrastructure... Lack of housing, for one. Those are some of the biggest challenges you face in a career like this.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Ethics. Ethics is one thing that I preach on, being morally correct, being ethical... being unethical sometimes plays a role in a lot of people's demise. ... really, really, really strong about being ethical, doing things the right way. My morals mean a lot to me.
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