I started out my career working for the government in compliance and my career grew from there. I made the move from the government to the private sector, and I have been the Director of Trade Compliance for Mitsui & Co. (USA) Inc. for the past 12 years. I am getting ready retired. When I do I plan to go to Cooking school living in Brazil and studying through an intensive language program.

I received my Bachelors Degree in American History and Education from Howard University and went on to work for several international organizations. My preparation has been a combination of formal education and experience. 

As a woman of color working in a male dominated field, I would say being taken seriously without being overly aggressive has been the biggest challenge for me.

My greatest strength is one of patience when training, teaching and presenting programs to a large audience of mostly men.

My greatest accomplishment is being the first woman of color to become the Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Board of Governors of the American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI).

My goal is to retire in 2018!

My parents were my biggest cheerleaders!  They encouraged my brother and I from a very early age to read everything we could get our hands on. They instilled in us that education is key and knowledge is power.

I definitely broke through barriers and I think my legacy will be one of being a risk taker; No holds barred. 

The American Association of Exports & Imports

The Society of International Affairs

The International Compliance Professionals

The Humane Society

Alzheimer's Foundation

I love to cook, and as a matter of fact I plan to go to Culinary School after retirement!

I also love to read and will be spending 6 months overseas learning a new language!