Akua A. GOODRICH

Grants Procurement Specialist

SYRACUSE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

* Age: 37

* Do you have ideas to attract and keep youth in the Syracuse area? We as a community must make an honest, joint commitment to investing in the lives of our youth, by helping them to develop vision for their own lives.

* Where do you see the community and yourself in the next 10 years? I see Syracuse as an extremely prosperous community, flourishing with profitable corporations, small businesses, and positive opportunities for youth and families. I envision myself as a successful consultant.

* Who has been the most influential person in your career? My husband Leon (Anthony) who not only supports and encourages me, but also shares my passion for empowering young people, and enhancing the quality of life for residents of this city.

* What are your guiding principles in life? The main principal that guides my life is all encompassing - my relationship with Christ.

* What has been your best career decision? Returning to Syracuse in 1995 and accepting a position as a grant writer with the Department of Special Programs, Syracuse City School District.

* How has your life turned out differently than imagined? I enrolled in college as a chemical engineer major. I never imagined I would be serving youth, families, and the community in this manner.

* What is one of your quirks? In the summer, I drive with the A/C on high and the windows rolled down.

* What are the core values that have been essential to your success? A willingness to learn and be trained by others and walking in a relentless state of determination, positive thinking, wisdom, and faith.

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