Briefly share about yourself and how are you affiliated to Stark College & Seminary?
Tiffany was born and raised in Corpus Christi, TX. She was not raised in the church, but serves now in the church because their teenage daughter is growing and needs a place to worship and grow. She homeschools her three children, and is married to her husband Jose of ten years. They started a life group bible study at home for parents to grow in the lord. She will graduate from SCS in May with her Certificate in Ministry and has begun her Masters degree at SCS. She was introduced to SCS by Rochelle Roots and hired part-time by Rochelle as well as the Development Assistant.
What are some hopes you may have for the future generations of African American women theologians, pastors, or religious scholars?
Tiffany wants to be supportive, due to her daughters, and promote equity instead of competition against male counterparts. Another hope is for women to be able to preach more often and encourage local congregations. This is a reflection on how women who do well in preaching have an opportunity compared to not frequently seeing them at the pulpit.
To celebrate the “history” part of Women’s History Month—is there a woman from history that you find especially inspiring?
One person of inspiration is Ruby Bridges who was one of the first black African American kids to integrate Louisanna segregated schools. She has been reading and teaching a book to her daughters about the impact she had as a little girl had a significant impact on them, as African Americans and women, as well in the education system.
What qualities make a great female?
While she leans on Proverbs 31, she believes a woman should be treated with respect, and know you are being watched for everything you do. She appreciates the godliness of other women of faith who provide characteristics to become building blocks for joy, peace, and all things that are great attributes.
Growing up, was there someone in your life that inspired you to become who you are today? Who was it and why?
Her mother, despite being a single mother, had the determination to go to college, and raise her three daughters. This was very admirable for Tiffany to pursue education and graduate college, even while being pregnant her last semester in receiving her undergraduate degree at Texas A&M CC. And now, Tiffany, is married with three daughters, and is inspired by what she learned from her mother.
What piece of advice would you give to aspiring women professionals?
Remember the why and purpose to what God has called you to.
Why is it important that more women are represented in church and theological institutional roles?
Women have been the backbone to many institutions and their discipline and order gives space to be able to be in these positions. Their value determines a place at the table.
What are some of the struggles you faced while in academia as an African American student, and how did you learn from it?
There were times she was not afforded a space to express herself without experiencing negative responses to her expression. As a Afro-Latino American she feels women of African descent have been devalued more than those who are white. She recalls a time when she would receive promotions and hear sidebar whispers of racial bias and prejudice.