Sophia Russell

I started my professional career in 1994 as a staff reporter for The Daytona Times while attending Bethune-Cookman College. As a writer for The Daytona Times, I had my own column called "Focus". Writing the "Focus column allowed me to meet unique and interesting people including Rosa Parks, Bill Clinton, Jesse Jackson and Johnnie Cochran. After graduating cum laude with a B.A. in Mass Communications in 1997, I moved to Augusta, Georgia and worked for the Augusta Chronicle. At the Chronicle, I became homesick and quickly moved back to Fort Lauderdale.

While working at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, I would spend my free time tutoring children at the Huntington Learning Center. This led to a career and Masters in education. I am now an adjunct professor in South Florida and a freelance writer/graphic artist (www.awritemove.com).

In the rare times when I do have free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, learning Spanish and serving as an extra in local film productions. I have never forgotten the lessons my parents taught me about morals, strength and the opportunities that America has to offer. They taught me to never feel inferior to anyone and never feel superior to anyone. It saddens me to see young people who are not inspired by the possibilities that await them. I use every opportunity I get to spread inspiration to others.