A talent for communicating, a drive to make impact and a deep love of learning fuels the career of Florida Starks, Ph.D., Pearson’s senior vice president and chief diversity officer.
- Primary School: Missouri; Favorite subject: Science (specifically astronomy, the night sky, comets, eclipses, and more).
- High School: Missouri; my favorite subject was Communications/Public Speaking. I love a good chat. What can I say!
- University + major: I received my undergraduate degree from Lindenwood University where I majored in Human Resources Management
- Learning-related photo and story behind it: When I reflect on this picture, I am reminded of the wonderful opportunity that lies ahead for this young person - the challenges she will face and the many opportunities she will have to make a difference in the world. I often look at images of Flo throughout the years and reflect on the importance of leaning into my tribe, looking for the lesson in every situation, seeking out opportunities to make an impact, and taking action to build a legacy.
- In school I excelled at: Building relationships. Though I get energy from independent spaces, I have long had interest in people; how they live, what’s important, understanding the why.
- In school I struggled with: Unkind people. I got teased a lot for my name, Florida (I still get the occasional joke, it just doesn’t bother me...and these jokes aren’t so original). I was also a heavier kid. Unpleasant people significantly impacted my ability to navigate the classroom, the schoolyard, lunchtime, and every other aspect of foundational learning in elementary school. Though we have fully recognized the impact of school and workplace bullying for some time now, in the 70’s there was more of a sticks and stones mindset. Thank goodness for new ways of thinking and resources that support well-being.
- After school you could find me: In the high school band room jamming. I played violin and sang in multiple choirs so hanging with the musicians was, and is, my jam.
- Troublemaker or Teacher's Pet?: Teacher’s Pet for sure. A colleague mentioned our organization was hiring a new temporary administrative assistant. This was mid-1990's for context. When they mentioned her name, it was the same name of my 6th grade substitute teacher. Well, she had seen my name on the meeting agenda and immediately gave me the biggest hug as I entered the room! I could not believe Mrs. Smith remembered me. She said I was one of her favorite students. Truth told, my parents did not play around so behaving well in school was a given.
- You'd be surprised to learn that in school I... wanted to teach English in another country. An organization visited my school and offered an opportunity to teach English to corporate workers. I declined then; however, have learned my lesson and share my story and encourage others to just go for it.
- In high school people thought I would grow up to be a: Talk Show Host or News Anchor. I absolutely loved working on my high school television show that appeared on a local cable affiliate.
- Favorite teacher/professor and why: Dr. S. Little, Sociology. Susie didn’t lecture. Each week we rearranged the desks in our tiny room to create a circle of learning where she facilitated a discussion that led to critical thinking. Best time ever! A close second was my poetry instructor, Lynn Staley...she still has my Love Jones cd....
- Favorite book: Both of my sons’ book of ‘firsts.’
- First job: Sales. I'm still in sales; I just offer a different product.
- If I could do any job, it would be: What I’m doing. The work of DE&I is tough, messy at times and yields discomfort for the most comfortable of those among us. On the other side, there is such a benefit and joy in observing the evolution of individuals and organizations committed to the work.
- The course I'd most like to take today: Easy ways to train your new pup...for Langston my soon to be 5-month-old red toy poodle. He’s a handful!
- If I could have any celebrity as a teacher, I’d pick: Mary Magdelene. What a story of resilience and growth. The untold stories she must have!
- Today I learn the most from: Observing. As I grow older, behavior modeling has taken on an entirely new meaning. Incorporating into your life the knowledge you gain or lessons you learn by watching others signals toward one’s true intention in applying learning.
- Do you learn best by reading, listening, or doing? My learning styles include logic, reading and observation
- Best piece of career advice I ever received: Don’t chase titles, chase impact.
- My personal superpower is: Love and hope. We need an ample supply of both. My leadership motto is to lead with love. Leading this way ensures that we engage with more care and empathy.