Meet Sonya Parker Goode – Grant Halliburton Foundation’s director of outreach and education.
Sonya’s passion for helping people led her to pursue a dual career in education and nonprofit work almost 25 years ago. As a certified life coach and anger management specialist, Sonya enjoys developing and equipping people with tools to increase their confidence, set and respect boundaries, and use effective communication and conflict resolution techniques.
Sonya is committed to bringing awareness to issues that affect the emotional and mental health of people of all ages from childhood to adolescence to adulthood.
Here are 10 things to know about one of our newest team members—Sonya!
1. What was your first job?
My very first job was at McDonalds.
2. What’s your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure is watching reality TV.
3. What advice would you give to your teenage self?
”Slow down!”
4. What’s your favorite movie scene and why?
My favorite movie scene is from Remember the Titans when the top two players on the football team are arguing about working together as a team on the field instead of grandstanding and showboating as an individual player, only looking out for certain teammates and not others. After Julius tells Gary that he’s going to look out for himself when he’s on the field, Gary responds by telling Julius, “That’s the worse attitude I’ve ever heard.” Julius shakes his head, looks Gary straight in his eyes and says, “Attitude reflects leadership.”
That line gave me chills the first time I heard it. It now serves as a reminder that it’s my responsibility as a leader to bring out the best in others.
5. What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I have a 33-year-old daughter.
“Slow down!”
6. What would you name the autobiography of your life?
My autobiography would be called So Many Things.
7. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending time with my family and a good happy hour!
8. What are your top three TV shows you’re streaming right now?
Shark Tank, Love and Hip-Hop Atlanta, and Family or Fiancé
9. Where’s your favorite travel destination and why?
Jamaica! Aside from the beautiful beaches, the mangos are fresh and delicious, the beef patties are delicious, and I can have as many oxtails as my tummy desires. Yum!
10. Why is Grant Halliburton Foundation’s mission important to you?
I’ve witnessed up close and personal in my own blended family, and in the families of those I love and care deeply about, the impact that bullying, self-harming, depression, suicide, and other issues that affect the mental health of youth, as well as their parents, siblings, families, and other caregivers.
