Unfortunately, saying thank you seems to be an afterthought more and more. So at least once a month, I will take a few minutes to publicly appreciate someone that has had an impact on me.
This round: Dr. Kadidra Hurst 
As usual, I stink at remembering first introductions. But I can tell you that I can’t help but cheer on this amazing woman.
Recently, I received an linkedin message with an invite to her defense of her Ph.D thesis. I felt genuinely honored to be invited. It’s not every day you get to sit in on a thesis defense, and in truth, I had never experienced one before. Walking in, I carried a mix of curiosity and quiet excitement, unsure of what to expect but grateful to be included in such an important moment.
At one point, I couldn’t help but feel a little concerned that my presence may have added to the pressure. She even mentioned me while presenting, and I wondered if that made the experience more nerve-wracking than it needed to be. But even it it was, she was doing a wonderful job presenting and answering the questions.
By the end, I was left with a sense of overwhelming emotion. Not just from the important rigor of the moment, but from the courage it takes to stand up, present your thinking, and invite critique. To invest years into something, and have the almost there feeling with. To be a part of her circle, to feel the love and support from so many people there for her. I have no shame in acknowledging the tears of joy as I listened to them call her Dr. and watch her change her zoom title.
Our community is better because of you. I am inspired because of you.
Picture from LinkedIn
