We recently had the chance to connect with Dr. Michele Vaughn and have shared our conversation below.
Michele, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
“Integrity is cornerstone of a fulfilling life—it’s about doing the right thing even when no one is watching. When you embrace a life of integrity, you’re paving the way for amazing rewards and a deeply meaningful journey!”
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Dr. Michele Vaughn is a distinguished Executive Leader with over 20 years of experience, known for her creativity and results-driven approach that has consistently delivered impressive outcomes. As the first African American woman to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Kishwaukee United Way in Illinois, she has made significant strides in leadership. Her professional journey reflects her exceptional talent for building relationships, establishing trust, and fostering philanthropic partnerships within diverse communities. Dr. Vaughn is not only a skilled communicator and storyteller but also a dedicated collaborator who prioritizes listening to and from her constituents, leading to successful funding initiatives and impactful community partnerships.
Dr. Vaughn is widely recognized for heartfelt commitment as a humanitarian and an inspiring leader. Her dedication to higher education nonprofit initiatives has garnered her numerous accolades at both local and national levels. As a featured expert on programs like “Fox and Friends,” she addressed critical issues such as high school dropouts and has showcased her compassionate side on HGTV’s “House Hunters,” where she assisted a single mother in achieving her dream of homeownership. Dr. Vaughn’s impactful work continues to inspire and uplift communities.
Today, Dr. Vaughn is an independent consultant with over 10 years of experience with the John C. Maxwell Team, where she trains a diverse array of leaders on the transformative power of influence. Highly recommended as a keynote speaker she captivates nonprofit organizations and corporations alike with her compelling messages. Her themes of perseverance, courage, and impact resonate deeply, inspiring audiences around the globe to embrace their potential and make a difference. Dr. Vaughn’s ability connect with listeners leaves a lasting impression motivates positive change. You can learn more by visiting www.drmichelevaughn.com.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
As a little girl, I often dreamed of letters escaping my mouth in tiny font, only to grow so large that they became unrecognizable. As I grew older, I sought God for and realized that a part of my purpose on this earth was to use my voice to impact and uplift others. These dreams became a guiding light, inspiring me to share my message and connect with people in meaningful ways. I am dedicated to fulfilling this purpose and making a positive difference wherever I am sent.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
The lesson I learned about “suffering” is that it teaches patient endurance through hardships, helping to establish a new foundation of perseverance, gratitude, and humility within me. I firmly believe that people do not aim to fail; instead, they strive to achieve success as they define it for themselves. A hard lesson success that is often overlooked is the test of, which, in my opinion, builds character and resilience. Embracing these challenges ultimately shapes us into stronger individuals, ready to pursue our goals with determination. Failing forward is much better than remaining stagnant.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I have always admired my mother for her remarkable character, from my childhood to now as a woman. I witnessed her leadership in the Christian faith community as she taught others, and I saw firsthand the authenticity of her life. Her public teachings aligned perfectly with her character, influencing me to be my most authentic self both privately and publicly. My mother is a powerful woman, not because of public accolades or former titles, but because of her heart for God and the way she treats others. She truly is my modern-day “SHERO!”
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
Even if I had no earthly possessions, no prominent title, and no one knew my name, I would still have my FAITH! It is my personal faith in God that sustains me and provides a spiritual inheritance that this world cannot offer. My faith has carried me through challenging seasons and tough lessons, surpassing anything money or human connections could provide. I hope to be remembered as a woman of faith who encouraged others through acts of kindness, empowering words, and selfless service to humanity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drmichelevaughn.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmv/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Inspiredrmv
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
