Celebrating Women's History Month
What is your job title? How long have you worked at Black Onyx Management?
Assistant Vice President & Equity Fund Director 4 months
Hometown?
Indianapolis
What’s a fun fact or two about you?
I studied abroad in Cape Town, South Africa.
What three words describe you?
Learner, Analytical, Relator
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside work, I enjoy activities that help me unwind and recharge. I particularly enjoy spending quality time with my husband, family members, and close friends, whether it's sharing a meal together or simply engaging in conversation. Additionally, I enjoy reading and watching sports events and movies. I also appreciate opportunities to travel because I create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
Who is the most influential woman you know? How does she inspire you?
The most influential woman I know is my mother, Deloris Rochester. She has been a source of inspiration throughout my life. As an occupational nurse and supervisor, she exemplified unwavering dedication, professionalism, and grace in her career. In retirement, she continues to prioritize the well-being of her family, especially in caring for my 100-year-old grandmother.
What truly inspires me about my mom is her unwavering strength and reliability. She has always been there for me and my brother, offering guidance, support, and unwavering love. Her wisdom and compassion have shaped my values and taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. She is not only a remarkable mother but also a role model for integrity and selflessness. I am endlessly grateful for her presence in my life and aspire to emulate her remarkable qualities every day.
What are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? How will these change in the next 20 years?
One of the most pressing challenges facing women today is the persistent gender leadership gap and its impact on pay equity. Despite advances in gender equality, the gender pay gap remains a stark reality. According to a 2024 Forbes article, women are still paid only 84% of what men make for the same work, highlighting a significant disparity that persists even 61 years after the passage of the Equal Pay Act. This gap is further exacerbated for women of color, with Black women earning only 64% of what non-Hispanic white men are paid.
Addressing these challenges in the next 20 years will require concerted efforts to dismantle systemic barriers and biases that perpetuate gender and racial disparities in the workplace. Investing in programs that promote women's leadership development, implementing transparent pay policies, and fostering inclusive work cultures are critical steps toward achieving gender equity and closing the gender leadership gap.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Treat others as you would want to be treated.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Speak up for yourself
Believe in yourself and your abilities
Strive for excellence
Don't be afraid to ask questions
Integrity and reliability are invaluable traits
What does Women’s History Month mean to you and how do you plan to observe it?
Women's History Month is a time of reflection and celebration, dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of women throughout history and in our present-day society. It serves as a reminder of the countless achievements, struggles, and triumphs of women from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.
I recognized the month by attending the Women's Equity Brunch. The brunch occurs twice a year and its mission is to empower and uplift diverse women committed to advancing equity in Central Indiana through networking and education in fun environments.