From Classroom to Community: How Technology Access and Teacher Support Shape Student Success with Brenda Powell

Welcome to another episode of The Silk Stocking Sisters Podcast. In this episode, we are joined by special guest Brenda Powell. From her early years growing up in Gary, Indiana, a city built on Black culture and community, to navigating higher education as one of the few Black students at University of Rochester during the 1970s, Mrs. Powell shares the experiences that shaped her personal and professional journey.She began her career in corporate sales with Xerox and Honeywell, then transitioned into education, serving as a high school guidance counselor for eight years before leading Laptops for Learning as Executive Director for seven years. Her work has focused on closing technology and opportunity gaps for low-income students. She understands the importance of scholarships, community-based support systems, and nonprofit education initiatives to expand access and opportunity for all students. Mrs. Powell reflects on the educators who changed the course of her life and influenced her educational pursuits, including a guidance counselor and French teacher who made her feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving more. She discusses the power of meaningful teacher-student relationships and emphasizes the critical role community plays in educational success. As Mrs. Powell reflects on her experience attending the University of Rochester, she expresses gratitude for the exposure it offered. She shares how her upbringing in Gary helped her feel grounded and comfortable in her own skin as she navigated new academic and social environments.Join us for a conversation that highlights how, when students are given the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities, they can thrive beyond circumstance. Remember to subscribe to The Silk Stocking Sisters Podcast on the ALIVE Podcast Network app for more episodes!