YWCA Women of Excellence: Cherie Huffman

What inspires you?

My family and friends always inspire me, they are my anchor. Outside of family and friends, results inspire and drive me each day. More specifically my team. I have the pleasure of working with such a great group of people who never stop giving their best and learning each day. That powerful combination inspires me to bring my best every day.

What advice do you have for others?

Remove “I can’t” from your vocabulary and focus on “I can”. Sure, something might take a lot of work or money to get it done, but coaching people with the mindset of “you can” will surprise you on how unstoppable people feel. Your beliefs do not define you; your behaviors do – walk your talk, it is easy just to be yourself.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned on your journey?

I have two I can share. First, Resilience! You cannot change yesterday but you can change today, so move on and bounce back quickly from issues and use them as a learning opportunity. Second, find something you enjoy doing and with people you feel good about doing it with. You spend most of your day at work and you should enjoy what you do and who you do it with.

What does your vision for our community look like?

I envision a community that is full of economic opportunity where both individuals and corporations work together to provide input on development. I would really like to see more Companies look at the community as a place to do business, which would allow for a strong talent pipeline to not only keep our talent but attract new people to the area. Corporate and City leaders can partner together to develop programs to strengthen and provide incentives to help reinforce education, reduce poverty, and offer diverse housing options. Development of more activities and entertainment options within our neighborhoods which will make our community a fun place to live and work. A strong vision is executed by those who live and work in the community.

What does "Equal - Powerful - Unstoppable" mean to you?

Each of us is different, but despite our differences, we should be able to come together to celebrate as one equal human race with the same civil rights each of us deserves. The status quo will continue without action, but people can powerfully inspire change and believe they can make it happen. This is not one person’s fight, but a fight that belongs to all of us and that is powerful. As a combined force we can be unstoppable through empowerment, action, and behavior.