MyCom Monday Hi-Five 8.28.23

“Being chosen as Who’s Who in Black Cleveland is not merely because of who you know, it’s because of the action being applied to what you know,” Kent said, “It means I am following behind some of the best leaders in Cleveland and I, too, will be remembered for my hard work and dedication to breaking generational curses.”

A lifelong Cleveland resident and a graduate from the University of Akron, Kent has spent over 15 years in local education and community leadership, working in both the classroom and administration.

Her commitment to building community began at a young age under the guidance of her grandfather, Wilson Rogers. “My grandfather Wilson taught me good work ethic when he would take me to work at McDonald’s at the age of 14 and would have me cleaning the dining tables and sweeping the floors. He taught me good business practices when he would greet everyone no matter who you were,” Kent said. Rogers was one of the first black McDonald’s franchise owners, operating four stores in Cleveland, active in Emmanuel Baptist Church and the United Negro College Fund, providing scholarships to minority students. “My grandfather taught me how to be humble and understand my blessings and what it means to be a blessing to others. Everyday I remind myself of his hard work in hopes that he would be proud today,” she continued.

Following seven years as dean of students for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, Kent has moved on to several entrepreneurial positions. She is Co-owner and Managing Director of A Better Day Academy. The Cleveland Heights child care center has enrolled over 50 children since opening in February, 2023, and is exploring expanding to a second location. Kent is also Director of Partnerships & Collaboration for Novaturient Industries, offering strategic planning, organizational marketing, and student engagement consulting for the Chagrin Falls based firm.

Not stopping there, Kent is expanding her presence in the community. “Often times I meet beautiful, smart, black women that do not have the support needed to get to the next level in life simply because of the loss of a parent, raising children, dealing with a loved one’s illness, or just not knowing where to start,” Kent said. To bridge those gaps, she is launching ‘Women on a Mission’, a non-profit organization that will empower young black women who need guidance, assistance, and resources to attain their goals.

“My grandfather always said ‘Don’t be like me, be better than me.’ Although I do not think I am anywhere close to his success it is a reminder that I am headed towards it,” Kent explained, “Being honored excites me and motivates me to want to accomplish more goals. I know that I have more work to do, therefore, this honor is going to make me work harder. I am honored to work harder for the black women coming after me. I am honored to have created expectations for my daughter, Reagan, to learn and become a successful adult in our community. I am honored to meet other successful black men and women who are changing the direction of our culture!”