LaToya Burrell wears multiple hats: wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She is also a college dean, professor, attorney, and mentor. Above all else, she is a child of God and a follower of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Her newest titles include change agent and writer. After the death of George Floyd, LaToya was inspired to boldly do something. Recognizing that change is needed, she decided to be the change she wants to see. This led her to write a book, launch a YouTube channel, publish articles on Medium, and have courageous conversations both formally and informally. As a Black woman, her experiences in America have been paramount to who she is today. As a mother of two Black sons, she wants her children to live in the best world imaginable. Her vision is for a world that reflects our Creator—a Heaven on Earth.

Born and raised in Louisiana, just south of New Orleans, LaToya is the firstborn child of teenage parents and a first-generation college student. Education and learning have been foundational in her life. No stranger to hard work, LaToya sets goals and works diligently to achieve them. Despite any roadblocks, her attitude has always been one of gratitude. A glass-half-full type of person, she aims to see the best in everything. She is fueled by motivating and empowering others. God has blessed her, always providing a path and provision. Her ultimate goal is to be a light and to help others see the beauty and blessing in all of God’s creation.

LaToya’s Gallup Strengths are Learner, Focus, Achiever, Discipline, and Harmony. Her personal mission is to Live, Love, and Lead. She aims to live every day with gratitude, display biblical love in everything she does, lead others to Christ, and encourage them to fulfill their greatest potential. As an advocate for social justice and equality, she desires a world where everyone is treated equally and valued as a creation of God. LaToya believes there is beauty in diversity and power in unity.

After the death of George Floyd, LaToya attended his memorial service at North Central University. Following the service, her heart was heavy, and she knew she needed to do more. A few days later, unable to sleep, she prayed for direction. She heard God’s voice crystal clear: Write. In obedience, she opened her laptop and began typing. The result is her book, Be Bold: How to Prepare Your Heart & Mind for Racial Reconciliation. With a heart for Christ and a desire for harmony, LaToya believes that racial reconciliation requires humility and openness. When we are willing to step into a place of self-reflection and courageous conversations, true healing can begin, and we can all boldly walk into our purposes.