Member Spotlight - Dr. Heather Lamb
We are delighted to spotlight Dr. Heather Lamb, Founder and Executive Director of Social & Economic Empowerment through Knowledge, Inc. (SEEK). BLK ED Network had the opportunity to interview her and learn more about her journey.
Social & Economic Empowerment through Knowledge, Inc. (SEEK) was established in 2019 with a dedicated team of volunteers and staff from diverse backgrounds.
SEEK's mission is to empower at-risk and underserved adults through comprehensive services, including education, training, social justice awareness, and adult literacy. The organization believes in the transformative power of education and training as vital tools for individuals to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Since its inception, the organization has launched various initiatives to foster positive change. SEEK strives for excellence in its endeavors and aims to make a meaningful and lasting impact in every community it touches.
Question: What inspired you to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector, and how did you get started in your current role as an Executive Director?
Dr. Lamb: I was inspired to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector because I wanted to be supported in being an effective change agent in my community. I knew that I was incapable of implementing the changes that I wanted to see without the support and opportunities that are made possible by moving through a non-profit organization.
Question: What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a Black Nonprofit Executive Director, and how have you overcome them?
Dr. Lamb: Some of the biggest challenges that I have faced have been surrounded by limited access to resources and stereotypes and implicit bias. We develop strategic partnerships, actively network within the community, and seek out funding opportunities from diverse sources to overcome the limited access to resources. I try to consistently exemplify effective leadership to combat stereotypes and implicit bias.
Question: What are some of your proudest accomplishments as the Executive Director of Social & Economic Empowerment through Knowledge, Inc. (SEEK), and how have they impacted your community and organization?
Dr. Lamb: I have had the opportunity to provide various education opportunities to the community. More specifically, since June of 2023, we have created 30 Baltimore business owners.
Question: What advice do you have for other Black Executive Directors who are just starting their nonprofit or facing challenges in their roles?
Dr. Lamb: My advice to other Black Executive Directors is to be intentional and disciplined about your mission. Many distractions will come, but if you stay focused on doing your good work, you'll eventually get your good results.
Question: What are your future goals and aspirations for your career and your organization, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Dr. Lamb: My goals culminate with the increase the reach of SEEK, Inc. All goals of the organization are designed to create a greater impact that empowers the community to sustain and even increase their capacity. We want to strategically align with like-minded organizations to continue to build our capacity and increase impact.
Question: How has being a member of BLK ED Network impacted your organization, and what are some benefits you've experienced from being part of this community?
Dr. Lamb: Being a member of BLK ED Network has been a tremendous support to me individually as well as to SEEK, Inc. I have met so many impactful and supportive people. I am encouraged and enlightened every time we meet. SEEK, Inc. benefits from the knowledge that is imparted. I’m excited about the future of SEEK, Inc. because of our relationship with the BLK ED Network.
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At BLK ED Network, we are dedicated to giving our members every opportunity to showcase their accomplishments and progress. One of the ways we do this is by providing members with a personal spotlight in our weekly and quarterly newsletters.
