Poetry & Spoken Word:
“Trees”
Trees is a story of community. Originally commissioned for Degrees of Change, Trees has become a relatable piece for young people overcoming adversity.
It tells the incredible story of first-generation college graduates from Tacoma impacting change in the city they call home.
The video was nominated for an Emmy Award in 2019.
“The Eyes of Your Enemy”
This poem was written for the Strive Together National Convening. Strive Together is a national community impact network that believes in supporting every child from cradle to career.
The poem was inspired by two hometown heroes named Pat and Lina Thompson. The poem was performed at the National Convening in Seattle Washington. It is a piece meant to inspire those who work with youth to remember the importance of their work
“What Does it Mean to Lead?”
This poem was originally written for Degrees of Change, a National Organization committed to supporting homegrown leaders to college and back together. The poem shares the experience of being a first generation college graduate and navigating education as a scholar of color.
This piece was performed at the career celebration of Rev. Calvin O Butts III, former President of SUNY Old Westbury