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Feb. 11, 2025
We are honored to celebrate Black History Month. Get to know our outstanding employees as they share in their own words what Black history means to them.
Monica West, Director, Community Engagement
"Never stop learning! Dream BIG and take risks."
Black History Month holds profound meaning for me, especially during times of political and social uncertainty. Through reflection and resilience, we recommit to the values that have sustained our community through centuries of struggle and triumph. It’s a time to take pride in honoring legacy, affirming identity, and motivating activism.
This month reminds me of the strength and perseverance of those who came before me, highlighting how African Americans have strengthened our nation's fabric and paved the way for everyone. They remind us to stand firm against injustice, just as leaders like Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., and many others did in their times.
My culture has influenced how I view challenges, relationships, and success while building my strong work ethic, values, and approach. I appreciate the importance of community and teamwork, being a mentor, and lifting others as you climb. The “twice as good” mentality of working harder to gain the same recognition has encouraged my commitment to excellence and attention to detail. My personal perspectives and approach shape my professional life.
All of this has helped me succeed even in uncertain environments. Our community has often faced seemingly impossible challenges only to emerge stronger. We will channel our concerns into actions every day of the year: educating, empowering, supporting Black-owned businesses, and advocating for change.
Engaging across our communities has always been crucial, but it has become even more vital over the past decade.
Through unity with like-minded individuals, we can recharge and celebrate the beauty and strength of our culture. Even in times when legislation and integrity are threatened, we will celebrate together and build a path forward.
If I could mentor the next generation of African American professionals entering communications and marketing—or take a trip back in time and speak to my younger self!—my first advice would be to embrace your unique perspective. Use your voice to build a personal brand that is visible, respected, and trusted.
As part of this process, develop skills that create meaningful impact, master strategic thinking, and hone your writing and speaking skills. These strengths will serve you well in building deep networks of mentors, peers, and professional organizations. Use your knowledge to address stereotypes and promote fair, inclusive messaging.
Above all, never stop learning! Dream BIG and take risks.
Jess Hunter, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist
"Mentoring others as you gain experience can also create a ripple effect of positive change."
For me, Black History Month is a time of profound reflection and celebration. It’s a time to honor Black individuals' rich culture and contributions throughout history. In the corporate world, it’s a chance to highlight Black professionals' achievements and to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
As a Black woman in Talent Acquisition, I hope the next generation will recognize and embrace the strength of their unique perspectives. I would urge them to build and maintain strong professional networks by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with mentors who can provide invaluable guidance and support. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies matters—in my case, that centers on Talent Acquisitions. Pursuing certifications, attending workshops, and engaging in continuous learning are great ways to enhance your skills and keep you competitive in your chosen field.
Advocating for diversity and inclusion is another meaningful way to make an impact. When you champion initiatives promoting diverse, inclusive workplaces, you shape your organization's and industry's future. The journey may have its challenges, but resilience is key. Staying focused on your goals, taking risks, and stepping out of your comfort zone will help you grow personally and professionally. Mentoring others as you gain experience can also create a ripple effect of positive change. Being true to yourself builds genuine relationships and leaves a lasting impression.
Looking ahead, I envision a future where Black professionals are not only present but also influential leaders who drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.
Troy Hill, Manager, Pressure Operations
"Treat others as you want to be treated. Never just 'settle' when pursuing your goals."
For me, Black History Month is a time to celebrate the vibrant, diverse culture that defines African American history. African Americans have played an integral role in shaping the United States. As a country, we should take time to learn more about their contributions—past and present—that have helped cultivate the society we live in today.
My greatest role model has always been my mother. She is the ultimate example of hard work, determination, humility, and empathy. As a single parent raising four children, she faced daily hardships without complaint. Her resilience and perseverance taught me invaluable lessons that continue to guide me in my career and life.
She instilled in me the importance of respect—treating others as you want to be treated. One of the most impactful lessons she taught me was that the loudest person in the room isn’t always the most capable. “Keep your head down, own your craft, and never settle for less” is her advice that still shapes my work ethic and approach to leadership.
James Conyers, Account Manager
"Wisdom and creativity are limitless, colorless, and powerful. Great companies celebrate great accomplishments at all levels."
Black History Month is a time for reflection and remembrance—an opportunity to honor those who paved the way so that I can enjoy rights, privileges, and freedoms often taken for granted. I am both a direct descendant and an indirect recipient of Black history in the making.
Born in Greensboro, NC, I was raised by my great-grandmother, who worked for the founder of The Palmer Memorial Institute in Sedalia, NC. Established in 1902, Palmer was the only institution that offered college preparatory courses to Black North Carolinians at that time
Growing up on the Palmer campus—now a historical site—and attending Bethany Church, where the school was first initiated, I took my surroundings for granted. Like many young people, I didn’t fully appreciate the rich heritage I was immersed in. It wasn’t until I left home that I truly understood the depth of that legacy and the pride I should carry in it.
Now, with the wisdom of experience, I see how my cultural heritage has shaped my outlook and approach to work. I deeply appreciate the lessons my great-grandmother instilled in me—the history she shared and the wisdom she passed down. She often quoted The Right Thing, a book by Dr. Brown, the founder of Palmer Institute. At the time, I didn’t realize how much those moments would shape me, but they became integral to my identity and values.
Black History Month is a federally recognized opportunity to celebrate, but history is all around us every day. I encourage everyone to take time to learn about their family history. Your grandmother, that distant cousin, an uncle you only see once a year—each of them holds stories that will be lost if not preserved. Listen, share, and document what they have to say.
Having lived through the Civil Rights Era, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the hard-won rights that can so easily be eroded if we’re not vigilant. Much like data, history can be erased from the surface but never truly disappears. The truth will always find a way back.
Wisdom and creativity are limitless, colorless, and powerful. Great companies celebrate great accomplishments at all levels. Seeing diversity in leadership fosters a sense of belonging and pride among employees. I want to feel included, valued, and proud—and I want the same for everyone who follows.
