We were lucky to catch up with Dawna-Diamond Tyson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dawna-Diamond , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose from God. I’ve been a Christian my whole life, but only a few months ago did I surrender myself, my understanding, misery, and suffering to God.
From an early age, my family encouraged me to enter the legal field. When I was 2 years old, I was adopted, and Charlye O. Farris, the first Black female attorney in Texas, handled my case. I felt special and excited to be like her.
Despite facing numerous barriers, including a prejudiced school, my dream to become an attorney persisted. When I got to college, I promised myself that I would change and do better, by the grace of God.
I worked hard to achieve my dream, earning my undergraduate degree in criminal justice, interning at the district attorney’s office, completing my associate’s degree, and then pursuing my bachelor’s degree at Texas Woman’s University. Along the way, I served in student government and earned my master’s degree, even becoming a student regent for my university.
But despite all this, I realized that my purpose wasn’t in the Capitol. The job I had longed for was not where I was meant to be. I felt separated from God and lost in my work.
One day, at my breaking point, I turned to God and said, “God, please turn my pain into purpose. Align my life with your will and glory, because I don’t want to do this my way anymore.”
Towards the end of the legislative session, I saw God working in my life. In July of this year, I was offered a position to teach as a dual credit adjunct professor for Collin College, which soon became a full-time dual credit professor. This has been the best part of my journey so far. It feels natural, it’s my purpose, it’s my calling, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a professor at the age of 26, I find my role to be the most fulfilling in my journey. It’s not just a job; it’s a calling, a purpose I’ve embraced with open arms. The beauty of it is that I don’t know what’s next, and that uncertainty is the best part. For the first time in my life, I’m not worried about what lies ahead because I am confident and content with where God needs me to be.
Teaching allows me to utilize the creative skills with which God has blessed me. Every day, I bring that creativity to life in each of my seven classes. I take great joy in creating an environment that is safe, productive, and enjoyable. It’s more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about shaping minds and nurturing their potential.
In this role, I discover more about who I am according to God’s will every single day. It’s a journey of self-discovery, faith, and purpose. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a professor and help guide the next generation.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve identified three crucial attributes that have been my guiding lights: patience, resilience, and unwavering determination, all fueled by the strength I draw from the Lord.
In this odyssey, I’ve learned to succeed in the face of failure. My advice to anyone embarking on their path is to embrace patience and recognize that your journey will not mirror anyone else’s. It’s perfectly acceptable to take a break when exhaustion sets in, but never relinquish your pursuit. There are moments when it gets tough, but in our darkest hours, the brightest light is often just a stone’s throw away.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth and improvement has undeniably been in the realm of faith. I’ve delved into learning about God’s will for my life and wholeheartedly trusting in His journey for me. Above all, growing in faith has been the most profound transformation, illuminating the understanding that I’m not restricted to a single set of skills, one place, or one job. With the strength I derive from the Lord, I am capable of so much more.
