June 20th 2023.
Deborah Roberts is an award-winning journalist whose impressive portfolio spans from the White House to the Royal Family's King Coronation. Now, she is on a mission to bring to light the stories of teachers across the nation and the monumental impact they can have on the trajectory of one's life.
Research conducted by Brown University and the University at Albany found that teachers are leaving the classroom in record numbers, resulting in the teaching profession being at its lowest in five decades. Many feel overworked, underpaid, and undervalued. To share these stories, Deborah Roberts has created a collection of essays with the help of celebrity friends such as Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and Oprah Winfrey. They all shared unique stories on how particular professors throughout their lives imparted life lessons both inside and outside school walls. Deborah Roberts has now released her new book, Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life, which aims to shine a bright light on the life-changing work of educators.
Recently, BLACK ENTERPRISE had the pleasure to virtually chat with the ABC News Senior National Affairs Correspondent. We asked Deborah Roberts why this was the right moment to author her book, as well as what guiding principles she carries from her parents that have shaped her life. Deborah explained that she wanted to highlight teachers and remind people of what they mean to us. She then shared that her parents taught her humility and to treat people with respect and work hard. All of these values are traits she carries with her and have a lot to do with her success in this business.
On the topic of leadership, Deborah Roberts explained that she is not always aware of her role as a leader when she walks into a room. Still, she makes sure to lead with grace and all the things that matter to her. Additionally, she is always conscious of the people around her who are looking to her for leadership qualities. She strives to set a good example and a high bar of excellence.
Finally, we asked Deborah what it means to her to have the platform to talk openly and candidly about her son's learning disability. Deborah and Al Roker, her husband, have a unique opportunity to speak out about their struggles and strengths, and they have put themselves out there to normalize conversations about family struggles. To a young Deborah, she reminds herself that she is capable, ready, and smart. She advises her younger self to have faith in her abilities and to be prepared, as it takes a while to hold her own with the big names in the business.
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