Porschia Pickett, 34, Chief Program Officer, Wesley House Community Center
After two years of expanding and enhancing programming at Wesley House Community Center, Porschia Pickett has been named executive director of the nonprofit. Through her work as chief program officer, Pickett increased youth and senior programming, food access, family resources and health care offerings in the Mechanicsville, Lonsdale and Beaumont communities.
Outside the professional sphere, Pickett remains committed to making positive changes through community outreach.
The achievement that stands out the most is the one I'm currently experiencing: my new role as executive director. I have prayed, been dedicated, waited patiently and worked hard for years wanting this opportunity and this moment!
The greatest professional obstacle I've had to overcome is realizing that I cannot do it all. I learned to do what I can with what I have and focus on what's in front of me.
2025 will be a year of sharpening skills, being intentional about self-care and owning who I am as a woman and leader.
My biggest professional dream was to become the executive director of a nonprofit organization. So, as you can see, I'm currently living it!
The mistake I learned the most from was not taking opportunities because I was too scared or felt as if I wasn't good enough. What I learned is that God has already gone before me, so there is no need to fear. The people and things I was scared of were just that: "people" and "things."
I am motivated by my family and the people I am blessed to serve daily. I'm also motivated by the generations I know will come from my bloodline.
The most overrated piece of advice I've received is, "Trust your gut."
I love working with someone who's mission-minded and team-oriented. If a person possesses those two characteristics, they will most definitely serve their organization and community well.
I'd love to see more collaboration in Knoxville. I truly believe if there was more collaboration, we could get more done.
I am naturally an introvert, but my career path forces me to be extroverted!