Distinguished Mentor Award | Rhonda Harris
TK: What does this honor mean to you both personally and professionally?
Rhonda: I’m so honored and grateful to be the recipient of this award. To be recognized by my peers for efforts on something as important as mentorship is humbling. Personally, this recognition allowed me to reflect on both my path in getting here and how I’ve been able to help guide others. When you’re doing something that you love, sometimes you don’t stop to think about the lives you have impacted, so thank you for that introspection. It also re-affirms that the many years of mentoring is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed. At the same time, it also brings this subject matter to the forefront, which is important, because we must think about the next generation and if we are not preparing them to reach their potential, especially women, then we must ask ourselves where will our new leaders come from?
On a professional level, I feel blessed that I am in a position where I can give back to others and see the benefits. I’m grateful that the Kansas Department of Commerce has given me the opportunity to serve in the role of leading the Office of Minority and Women Business Development where I have been able to assist many women and minority businesses. I must also mention that I have had the best coworkers anyone could ask for. They have provided support and encouragement along my journey and for that I’m grateful. Because I have been provided so many opportunities in my life and in my career, I try to pay it forward by helping others so that they can in turn pass it on. I challenge each of you to do at least three things better or differently, whether it is leading more proactively, taking the time to learn from others, and learning to give better feedback and/or mentoring others so that they can succeed in their life goals. I want to sincerely thank GO Topeka, Minority and Women Business Development for establishing this recognition not only for this award but the other awards that are being recognized.
TK: How would you describe your leadership style?
Rhonda: I would describe my leadership style as being a Coach and Servant leader. I believe these two styles have a little bit of everything that describes me. The coaching aspect illustrates my capacity to create a positive and motivating environment where I can provide guidance and support. As a servant leader, I lean towards having a people-first mindset and believe that when people are personally and professional fulfilled, they are more effective and it makes it easier to collaborate and engage them in growth and development, which can help them in reaching their goals.
TK: Who has inspired you the most throughout your journey?
Rhonda: Initially, I would say my college professors inspired me, by giving me the knowledge and the skill set to be a proactive thinker and a visionary. However, one professor in particular, Dr. Toy Caldwell-Colbert, gave me the opportunity to envision a different course of study and career path. She encouraged me to apply to a master’s degree program in the School of Psychology, which she was the Dean of at Emporia State University. She guided me through the program and helped me set goals and reach them, which has led me to where I am today. As I entered into the work force, I would say, other women in leadership positions inspired me as they served as role models. Through them I was able to see that women could be in roles of leadership and be successful. I tried to learn as much as I could from them and use those leadership skills as I have traveled along my journey. I’ve noted that it is important that once a person is in that role of leadership that they reach out to help others reach their goals and achieve success as well and that is what I have tried to do.
TK: What is one piece of advice you have for young females at the beginning stages of their careers?
Rhonda: It’s hard to narrow it down to one piece of advice, so I will not try. My advice to young females at the beginning stages of their career would be to remain open to new experiences and consider all opportunities that are presented to them. Another piece of advice I would give is to be flexible and not to be quick to say no to chances because you may not understand it. Also, remember nothing worth having is easy so be prepared to work hard. Scrutinize advice that is provided and take what is best for you. Last, but not least, do your best in everything you do and ask questions.
TK: What is your theme song?
Rhonda: My theme song would be “Do You Know Where You’re Going To” by Diana Ross
TK: What would your current life #hashtag be?
Rhonda: My current life #hastag would be #Empowerd #Positivevibes #Successful
