Black History Month continues, and so does Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana’s highlight of African American leaders contributing to our mission: changing lives every day through education, employment and health. Our next spotlight is on L’Tanya White, the director of The Excel Center® in Clarksville. She brings a passion for inspiring others and 20 years of experience to the school’s staff and students.

“My role as director is to ensure that my staff has the resources they need to serve our students and remove any social or economic barriers they encounter,” said L’Tanya. “I ensure students have what they need to be successful to graduate, be employable and active in the workplace.”

As L’Tanya grew into her role as school director, she identified that obtaining food during school hours became a barrier for students. Many would skip lunch altogether. She not only provided breakfast and lunch snacks, like granola bars, but also started free lunches for students on Thursdays. In the first week free lunches were implemented, the school staff handed out over 60 prepared boxes.

“I’m a big vision type of person, so I already see where we can grow by this time next year,” said L’Tanya. “Hearing the feedback from students gives me the energy to be creative and see where we can reach them.”

L’Tanya is thrilled to celebrate Black History Month at The Excel Center. The school started celebrations early with “Dream Like King Week” from January 16-19.

“Our goal is to understand that all groups have dream-makers and to focus on what Dr. King’s dream was,” said L’Tanya.

Throughout the year, the school celebrates people from all backgrounds to ensure everyone feels wanted and accepted at The Excel Center. This is one of L’Tanya’s guiding principles, taught to her by her parents. Her mother particularly mentored her to be a Black woman who can be confident in herself.

“Having that model of Black femininity and womanhood who tells you that you’re everything society says you aren’t is everything,” said L’Tanya. “She provided me everything I need to elevate myself in this world.”

Her family’s lessons have affected her professional life; in her role as director, L’Tanya wants to promote a sense of safety that can be missing outside of the school building.

“Being a Black woman in a leadership role, I want every student, staff member and visitor I connect with to feel respected, valued and protected,” said L’Tanya, inspired by Malcolm X. “I’m going to do what I can to have an equitable environment and feel included because my mother taught me that I am respected, valued and protected.”