In honor of National Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, the women of UCAN answered simple yet honest question:
Who is a woman that inspires you and why?

“My grandmother. She was a hard worker and a fierce protector. She worked in an Italian restaurant in the kitchen.
I remember her and my grandpa taking us on vacation to northern Wisconsin each summer and she would cook at the lodge the second week we were there. I didn’t learn until I was older that she was working on our vacation to ‘help pay for our cabin.'”
— Stephanie Franklin, Vice President of Teen Parenting Services Network


“My mother is THE woman that inspires me. She motivated me to grow and learn without barriers. I accepted the challenge. She is the reason I am who I am and where I am today.
‘We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.’ -Maya Angelou”
— Latoya Thomas, Office Coordinator


“The woman who inspires me is my life coach Love McPherson. She is one of the kindest, hardworking women I know who makes time for her family and for those who seek her guidance. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.”
— Adreiona Fox, Youth Development Coach

— Ladon Brumfield, Project Manager, Workforce Development


“My mother. She lives life on her terms, stepping out on faith to pursue her goals as a woman, a mother and a professional. She sets an example not just by word, but also by deed, teaching me to do the same.”
— Tamara Reed Tran, Associate Vice President, Development

— Angie Williams, Contents/Records Coordinator, Finance