Glenda Parker

Glenda would never say it comes easy to her but she’s found a way to lead others selflessly and fearlessly despite anything stacked against her. And through believing the best about others, she’s encouraging those around her to do the same.

What makes you feel proud?

I feel proud when I see all that I've achieved as a result of my hard work and dedication. Whether it be a small household task or designing and implementing a new process at work; I can't help but to light up when I step back and review what I've done.

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

I would have to say my Mom is my biggest influence. She passed away in November of 2012, but her love and light will always guide me and influence me to be the absolute best I can be. There are very few, if any, decisions I make in life without thinking about what she would have done or what would make her the most proud.

What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?

Mass incarceration! Mass incarceration is a civil rights crisis. With Oklahoma having the second highest rate of incarceration in the US, there's a lot of work to do.

“I often find myself living life in the fast lane, just wanting to go from one thing to the next without taking time to truly enjoy where I am and what I'm doing in the moment.”

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

Navigating through life as a Black woman in America with anxiety. It's often easy to think you're not good enough when the chips are stacked against you from the beginning. Pair that with anxiety and simply replying to a work email can feel like climbing Mt. Everest.

One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?

I hope I'm more patient and present. I often find myself living life in the fast lane, just wanting to go from one thing to the next without taking time to truly enjoy where I am and what I'm doing in the moment.