Goodwill Celebrates African American Leaders Essential to Success

February marks Black History Month, honoring the triumphs and struggles of prominent African Americans who have made significant contributions to America and the rest of the world.

To celebrate Black History Month, Goodwill is recognizing local African American leaders who are essential to our success.

You can read their stories by clicking the links below.

Martell Martin

For  Martell Martin, there’s no greater feeling than to help people set goals and support them in achieving them. Martell has been employed at Goodwill Industries for 10 years in various roles; he currently serves as the Production Manager – Laundry.

As a goal-oriented leader, Martell looks for opportunities to develop his team. “I see challenges as a way to grow and enhance,” he said. “What drives me is my desire to teach my team how to set goals – both long-term and short-term – and to help them think of creative ways to achieve those goals. That’s such a great feeling.”   

Click this link to read more.

Michelle Greene

"I am recognizing and embracing my ability to influence and have an impact.” These are the words of Michelle Greene, Vice President – Information Technology at Masco Corporation and member of Goodwill’s Board of Directors.

One of Michelle’s favorite “Mission Moments” is Robert’s story, which represents perseverance and illustrates the impact Goodwill has in our communities. While reflecting on Robert’s story, Michelle said, “What do I want people to know about Goodwill? The organization has such a broad reach. So many careers, lives and circumstances have been and continue to be impacted by Goodwill. All people think about many times is dropping off donations, but people don’t realize that in the time it takes to drop off something – they’ll make an incredible impact on someone in partnership with Goodwill.”

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Michelle Mason

“I strive to leave each relationship and experience a little better than when I encountered it.” These are the words of Michelle Mason, President and CEO at Association Forum and member of Goodwill’s Board of Directors.

Since beginning her role on the board, Michelle continues to be inspired every time she sees the Goodwill mission in action. Many of her favorite memories are of moments when those in need receive job opportunities, which she knew would change their lives. “

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Mary Dowell

“What drives me to lead is my personal pursuit to be my best self – whatever that may be,” says Mary Dowell, Principal Consultant, MJ Dowell & Associates, LLC and member of Goodwill’s Board of Directors.

Mary recently participated in what she describes as a memorable volunteer experience at Summerfield Methodist Church where Goodwill was founded in 1919. Along with Goodwill board members and senior leadership, Mary served meals to individuals experiencing homelessness. “That was very gratifying for me,” as Mary reflected on touching the lives of people in need of support.

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Chris Talton

For Chris Talton, an opportunity to serve others is what drives his passion to lead. Chris has been employed at Goodwill Industries for more than 10 years in various leadership roles; he currently serves as the Director of Operations – Naval Station Great Lakes.

As a leader, Chris remains grounded by the people who helped shape him. “Over the course of my life, I’ve been fortunate to have talton bio pichad family members, church leaders, coaches, teachers and community leaders who influenced and helped guide my path. Just as I’ve been supported, I believe we all have an obligation to continue moving the community forward by looking for opportunities to help others succeed,” he said.

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Kathy Davis

A motivating leader and community volunteer, Kathy Davis is driven by her desire to help people grow. Kathy is an Area Manager for Goodwill Retail Operations where she oversees the Brown Deer and Milwaukee-Palmer Street retail locations in the Greater Milwaukee area.

Kathy is passionate about developing people to their fullest potential. She adapts her leadership skills to support the full spectrum of talent from part-time or entry level staff to strategic support for senior management.

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Jacqueline Moore Bowles

“I am driven to lead because I want to leave a legacy of giving.” ”These are the words of Jacque Moore Bowles, President & CEO of Creative Marketing Resources (CMR) and long-standing member of Goodwill’s Board of Directors.

One of Jacque’s most memorable Goodwill moments is witnessing someone who thought he had no value experience the "Power of Work" at Goodwill.

Click this link to read more.