Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Dennis Haynes! We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what lead you down your current life path.
I am born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, with a normal upbringing. Though, athletically inclined, I was expected to academically do my best. My elementary and high school teachers and athletic coaches were African Americans and products of the early civil rights movement. They stressed education and several lived in my immediate neighborhood, so I had the privilege of hearing that message often. My report card was a public record! Currently, I live in the DFW metroplex. For the past 11 years, I have operated my own executive career coaching practice. I opted to transition from a 25-year career as a corporate HR professional to new beginnings. And actually, found my career transitioned seamlessly to what I have done throughout my professional career – which is to use my professionally trained and God-given talents to help people (a lesson I was taught early).
What or who inspired you to pursue your career?
Several factors have inspired my professional career. Most influential, were my parents, my four older siblings, and my community while growing up in Chicago. Throughout childhood, I witnessed firsthand numerous personal examples of practicing self-discipline, striving to always do your best, embracing a work ethic, and being a positive difference in the lives of others. Life lessons well served. During my corporate career, I was inspired differently as I was mentored by corporate and entrepreneurial influences and given room to serve the larger world community. Through my HR and global career services experiences, I realize many career professionals have never learned the intricate process of identifying and securing their ideal job. I believe managing one’s career is a life skill, so I enjoy my profession. It allows me to share my curated training, career experiences, and professional beliefs to help others experience career satisfaction.
What is one thing you are proud of achieving in your life and career?
I am proud of my community service experiences and my performance record as a Career Coach. I cherish both pursuits, because my approach has been selfless and consistent, and has made a positive impact on the lives of others.
Please share your favorite Life Lesson, how is relevant to your life?
It would be learning the art of patience. Patience applies discipline to your thoughts when they become anxious about a goal. I learned impatience breeds anxiety, fear, and discouragement. However, patience fosters confidence, reinforces decisiveness, and contributes to a rational outlook on life. That eventually leads to success.
The road to success is difficult and requires tremendous dedication, what advice would you give a young person who aspires to follow in your footsteps and emulate your success?
Don’t allow a temporary setback to become a permanent failure. Learn to quickly get back into the game and avoid letting a negative experience mold you. Just know you are better than that. Also, avoid unwanted labels; don’t let them stick. Remember, temporary failures are stepping stones to your ultimate success.
Why did you choose to be a Board Member of Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
I can contribute to E.R.E.’s mission by bringing a rare perspective, as I have a familiarity with both Illinois and Texas donor and grassroot communities. Also, I enjoy giving back to our underserved communities, and E.R.E has demonstrated it is making a significant difference. I seek to leverage my non-profit experience in fundraising, program management, and strategic planning to further advance E.R.E.’s goals.
What about Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speak most to you, and why?
E.R.E. is intentionally developing the next generation’s world leaders. The organizational focus is 100% supportive of student academic and personal growth. The collective efforts and organizational resources are targeted to close the equity gap. Reflecting on my own academic journey, it would not have been fruitful if it had not been for the dedicated educators and tutors in my life. E.R.E. is taking meaningful actions in shaping our world and the future of our children. I am honored to have an opportunity to contribute to E.R.E.’s mission and core values.
