In 2015, I received an email about applying for a free professional development opportunity. I submitted the application and I was accepted. I thought that I was just going to be participating in professional development to learn some things to apply in my classroom. But that wasn’t just the case and clearly God has other plans!

 

Through DTEC, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Johni Cruse Craig. Trying to find the words that describe Dr. Cruse Craig and the impact that she has had on my life in a short period of time is difficult. When I think of her and the qualities she possesses, all I can think of is a true woman of God. A woman of God seeks God first, speaks faithfully, stays humble and most importantly they serve the Lord. Matthew 6:33-34 says “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

 

Dr. Cruse Craig has been called to do great things. In everything that she is involved in, she seeks God first. Godly women speak faithfully. Proverbs 31:8-9 and Proverbs 21:26 discuss how Godly women use their voice “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” As one of God’s vessels, she speaks for those who can’t speak for themselves. She’s an advocate for children, families and educators.

 

Godly women stay humble. “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 2:3-5

 

Last, but not least, true Women serve the Lord. “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.” – Colossians 3:23 I remember my first time meeting Dr. Cruse Craig at Dunbar High School in Washington, DC. One of the first things I noticed about her was her willingness to serve others. Usually, when someone is in charge of something, they sit back and delegate. This was not the case for Dr. Cruse Craig. She was attentive to the needs to the participants and facilitators to make sure we had everything that we needed. This act alone showed me her humbleness.

 

There have been times that I needed a word and she has texted me just what I needed to hear. Dr. Cruse Craig has enlightened me and helped change and shift my mindset. Her leadership skills and the way that she serves others has shown me what it takes to be a phenomenal leader. Dr. Cruse Craig is my mentor, my supporter, my encourager, my Soror, by friend and my sister in Christ. Words can’t begin to explain how thankful I am for Dr. Cruse Craig.