BY DAVID ALVEY
Jocelyn Guzman came prepared for her recent career model experience with KLTY-FM morning show co-host Starlene Stringer. In fact, at times it washard to tell who was interviewing whom.
“What’s more amazing than a face-to-face experience with the job of your life and dreams?” asked Guzman, a senior at Peak Academy in Dallas. “My experience with Starlene Stringer left incredible memories that I will take with me as long as I exist. It showed me that everything is truly possible, and I would love to do it again.”
Guzman was a guest recently on Irving radio station KLTYFM’s Public Affairs Show “DFW Perspectives.” Guzman quizzed Stringer — a graduate of Duncanville High School — on topics such as, “How do you balance a career in broadcasting with speaking engagements and writing books?” and “At what point in your life did you know this was the career for you?” Guzman’s visit was a part of a program called Dallas Elevators powered by Coca-Cola.
“Being a career model for Dallas Elevators powered by Coca-Cola was a wonderful experience for me because it allowed me the opportunity to help a young person pursue her dreams,” said Stringer, who attended college at Texas Woman’s University. “Local radio and television personalities mentored me when I was in high school and college, so it’s an honor to be able to pass along some of the encouragement and support I received.” Other Dallas Elevators participants also had opportunities recently to interact with community leaders through career model experiences.
East Dallas Club member Geovani Jimenez spent an afternoon with veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Sarpong of Metro Paws Animal Hospital in Lake Highlands.
Oak Cliff club member Marcus Greer had the opportunity to sit down with renowned caterer Wendy Krispin and help out in the kitchen at Krispin — The Restaurant in the Dallas Design Center.
Hanna Awoke, a senior at Irma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, spent an afternoon making patient rounds with Dr. Becky Chandler-Berry at Family Medical Center in Garland.
“Last year, 100 percent of the seniors enrolled in our program graduated high school,” said Ben Lawson, director of Independent bottlers for Coca-Cola North America. “All but two went on to college. And those two young people joined the armed forces.”
The Dallas Elevators curriculum uses the acclaimed Heart of a Champion character development program, which utilizes innovative video, print and online tools to instill and reinforce positive character and life skills.
Students who complete learning modules earn rewards throughout the year. Gift certificates to restaurants, movie tickets, and other rewards serve as additional incentives. At the end of its inaugural year, college scholarships were offered to several graduates of the program.
David Alvey is a frequent contributor to neighborsgo.
The Dallas Elevators – Starlene Stringer experience story appeared in the 11-27 issue of Best Southwest NeighborsGo.
