Serita Winthrop was the mentor who didn't just teach me public speaking, she opened up a whole way of seeing the world. Before I met her, I had no idea what the world could offer in terms of opportunity. She pushed me to ask better questions, take risks I wouldn't have taken on my own, and believe I belonged in rooms I used to only watch from the outside. I wouldn't be where I am without her guidance, and I'm endlessly grateful for the time, love and trust she invested in me.