Let Your Voices Be Heard
As America continues to deal with a global pandemic, as well as racial unrest in the country, exercising the right to vote in the 2020 election has never been more important. If you’re not voting for your own interests and standing up for your own beliefs, then who will?
Make your voice heard at the 2020 polls and vote on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2.
Let us also be reminded of the hurdles overcome by the heroic women who have faced violence and discrimination to propel the women’s movement forward. August marked the 100th anniversary of the passing of the 19th amendment, which gave women the right to vote and helped in raising public awareness in the fight for equality. It’s also a great day to celebrate the achievements of the women in our lives that do so much, from teachers to doctors to our very own Shawna Morris, Chief Executive Officer at Camino a Casa by Casa Pacifica Centers for Children & Families.
Interview with Shawna Morris, MPA, Chief Executive Officer at Camino a Casa by Casa Pacifica Centers conducted by Laura Niedringhaus, Clinical Outreach Manager
What career did you envision for yourself as a young girl?
As a young girl, I envisioned being part of an organization that helps people. My dad was involved in a serious accident and suffered greatly. A family physician spent many hours with me and helped me understand what was happening, which made an impact on me. As a result, I wanted to be part of a field that helped people in pain, especially psychological pain.
Who were your female role models? What characteristics did you admire and want to emulate?
My mom is a great role model for me. She was hard working, caring and focused and taught me to be disciplined, kind and curious.
I have a dear friend, Rozanna Davis, who has graciously helped make me a better person over the past 2 1/2 decades. She is a successful business leader and taught me how to make educated career decisions and invested her time in mentoring and keeping me grounded. As an African American teen-ager during the turbulent 1960-70’s, she experienced the race riots and abuse of power. Through the many years of sharing our lives with each other, I am a better person and leader.
Do you have a formula or strategy when making important decisions?
Gather as much data as possible, listen carefully and be curious about how the decision(s) will affect those impacted.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Creating a place for us to find hope and healing through a culture that encourages patients, their families, staff and our communities to reach our potential.
What are you most proud of?
I am fortunate to have led two organizations through restructuring and growth resulting in more and better services for those suffering from the pain of mental illness.
What lessons have you learned as your profile has risen?
I live and work in a glass house. Living and working transparently and authentically is the only way to be successful.
How do you balance work and family?
My family is a priority and I schedule protected time to spend with them. Thankfully, they are very supportive and flexible.
What would you say to your 13-year-old self, your 21-year old self?
I would say the same to both ages. Always stay curious and laugh…a lot! 😊
Any words of wisdom or advice for young women that want to become a CEO?
Take time to acknowledge what is working well and thank those around you, especially your leaders and staff. Healthcare is a challenging field and we need to acknoweldge and compliment those working hard helping others.
