Her Story
About Matisa
I've been in my field for 25 years, starting with earning my PhD in sociology right after undergrad. I taught as a full-time sociology professor for 12 years before realizing I could make more impact outside of the classroom. I transitioned to teaching part-time while becoming a consultant and keynote speaker. Today, I work remotely as a director at a nonprofit, where my days vary greatly - from writing policy papers and doing evaluation and research to advocacy work on Capitol Hill. I'm also an executive coach, meeting with my coaching group once a week and conducting one-on-one sessions throughout the week. My main areas of expertise are leadership development, community building, and strategic planning. I've completed four leadership programs - three in Kentucky and one in Georgia, including a year-long program. I'm currently pursuing an additional degree in seminary. Among my most notable achievements are two TED Talks, one in 2023 and one in 2024, which alongside attaining my PhD represent milestones I'm particularly proud of.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Matisa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I always attribute my success to God. I'm a woman of faith, and I believe there is a path for me. There are many opportunities that I received that I could not have gotten on my own - I believe it was just because it was part of my purpose. I also attribute my success to my family. I'm a recent widow, and my husband was always super supportive of all of my dreams until now. As I continue forward, it's partially that support, partially the support of my children. So yes, God, family, and friends.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Follow your passion. That's the best career advice, and it's one that I've told my students over and over again. Follow your passion, and everything else will fall in place, and I still believe that.
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