Member Spotlight:Brandy Ward

Brandy Ward, Diversity & Inclusion Task Force Chair

What is your favorite placement?

• My current placement as Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Task Force is by far my favorite. This placement has allowed me to bond with several ladies from different backgrounds and cultures, but who are all dedicated to accomplishing the goals and objectives of the JLM. I absolutely love the space that we are in, and the opportunity that we have to make a positive impact in the JLM and our community.

Why did you get involved in the JLM?

• When I decided to make Memphis my home, I wanted to get involved with a women’s organization that was dedicated to community service and involvement. JLM was the first organization to extend that opportunity to me, and I am extremely glad that I took advantage of it.

What have you learned from being a member of the JLM?

• I have learned that when a group of women who are passionate and dedicated to a worthy cause, can change the world.

What advice do you have for other members about choosing a meaningful placement?

• Thorough research of all placements is absolutely necessary. After the research is complete, however, members should strive to choose a placement that can either compliment their current station in life, challenge their skills and abilities or both.  The most important thing is to choose a placement which can exert your passion and allow you to receive the full beneficial experience of the JLM.

What’s been your favorite GMM location and/or speaker?

• All of the speakers have been awesome, but my favorite location is the Levitt Shell.

What is your occupation?

• Investment Banker, Vice President, Harvestons Securities

Who has inspired you in your career/field?

• Suzanne Shank is the first African-American woman to run a publicly traded financial institution. Her path to success, however, was not forged by politics and privileges, but by hard work, determination, and a little luck.  As I proceed in my career, she is definitely part of my professional “Mount Rushmore.”

What is your favorite Memphis restaurant?

• Evelyn and Olive, hands down. Cozy Corner for Barbecue. Every true Memphian has to have a fave restaurant AND a fave BBQ restaurant.

Who’s your favorite sports team?

• I am a die hard Grit and Grinder!!!

What is your favorite quote?

• “ For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required”

Luke 12:48

What is the last book you read and would recommend?

• Beale Street Dynasty: Sex, Song, and the Struggle for the Soul of Memphis, by Preston Lauterbach. I think it provides excellent insight on the foundation of race relations in Memphis, as well as wonderful sociological and historical context of our great City.