Celebrating Black History Month – meet Dr Laketha Nicole Brandon

This Black History Month, we remember and honor the rich tapestry of Black history, achievements, and contributions, especially those of Black pioneers in the space industry. We celebrate African Americans whose spirit, culture, and achievements have uplifted our country and our world.

At Barrios, we recognize the importance of promoting diverse perspectives within the business and will be reflecting on the importance of Black History Month, culture and diversity with some of our employees.

Meet Dr Laketha (Nicole) Brandon, Project Coordinator on our CPSS PC contract in Huntsville, AL. She believes that Black History Month is a time to acknowledge and reflect on the great accomplishments that were made for humanity. Black history is American History – it’s for EVERYONE!

Nicole says that as an educator, she is inspired by Mary McLeod Bethune. A daughter of slave parents who did not allow her situation to stop her God-given life’s purpose. “Mary saw education as one way to fight against the injustices of racism. She was a champion of racial and gender equity, a friend of Eleanor Roosevelt, and was appointed by President Roosevelt as the Director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration.

“My family is also my biggest inspiration. I have seen challenges, strengths, failures, and accomplishments through the Rice family. Faith and hope are our foundation. It is the light that guides us and shines through darkness.”

At Barrios, Nicole has attended Diversity Council meetings and embraces African American culture by exploring different parts of the world and meeting new people. “Trying out different activities can be so rewarding and eye-opening. Learning about different cultures and histories brings perspective and understanding to our own lives.

“Diversity is an area of continuous improvement. As a small, woman-owned company, Barrios demonstrates diversity though leadership and covers topics of race, gender, sexual orientation, and diversity through its newsletter. I believe that Barrios strives to be an active participant of knowing and embracing different cultures. I am a proud member of the Barrios team and aims to do my part in being active in awareness.”

Nicole is active in her community and currently serves as a board member of the Miss Black Rocket City Pageant Scholarship Foundation, a non-profit that helps African American women earn scholarship money to assist with college expenses. “This is our 6^th year partnering with our community and our scholarship pool is aiding in accomplishing our goal! I am also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first African American Sorority geared towards serving humanity with excellence. Through our service, we promote, support, and enhance our skills, talents, and abilities to serve ALL mankind!”