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Julie Coley-

Julie is a 22yr old, full-time working, college attending, mother of one.  Although she was raised in a military family and moved often growing up, she considers Easton, PA to be home.  "I believe my military upbringing contributes to my diversity and adaptability," she insists.  Julie's professional goals are to graduate college and to be an active asset in the education system.  Her involvement with Ladies of Thought began when it originated in the fall of 2008. She is passionate about giving back to the community, especially children.  "It's simple," Julie says, "the children are our future." 

 

Dazniquan Gardner-
 

Dazniquan was born and raised in Bronx, NY. After relocating to Easton, PA in 2001 she joined Shiloh Baptist Church. She began serving there immediately after joining, and has been a full time employee there since 2005. As a single mother she devotes her time to nurturing and bringing up strong, well educated and goal oriented children. She is committed to reaching back to young people and strives to be a good example to as many as she can reach. "I like to be transparent so they can see me for who I really am and learn from my life's lessons" says Dazniquan. Her involvement with Ladies of Thought began with its origination in the fall of 2008. She considers it an honor to share a vision with a group of young women so willing to sacrifice in order to give back to their community.

 

Jocelyn A. Means -

A results oriented, Jocelyn , manages life as a spouse, fulltime student, and Cosmetologist. Her humble beginnings on the small island of St.Croix, have driven her to rise above the status quo, and become an asset to the community. Being one of the first females of her family to complete high school, Jocelyn decided she would break the mold and exceed all expectations. Jocelyn has since attained her license in cosmetology, an Associates Degree from Northampton Community College and is pursuing a Bachelors degree in Sociology with a minor in Women's Studies from East Stroudsburg University. As a visionary behind Ladies of Thought, Jocelyn's contribution dates back to its origination as a Book Club in the fall of 2008. She aspires to affect change and be a motivational leader within her community. Quoting the words of President Obama, Jocelyn sincerely believes "We are the change that we seek."

 

Cortney Russo- 

Cortney has recently received her Associates Degree in General Studies from Northampton Area Community College and is currently attending Cedar Crest College to pursue a Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology, concentrating in Industrial/Organizational studies. She is a part-time working, full time student that resides in Easton, PA. Coming from a broken home made her life a little rocky, but she states "Life with misfortune and hardship makes us who we are as individuals. The tougher the obstacle, the stronger you will become and the higher you will climb." With her determined attitude to inspire children and young teens, she hopes to make a dent in the community by demonstrating that "we" a cultured community of human beings has the power to change ourselves, change our environment and surely change our future. Additionally, her involvement with Ladies of Thought began when it originated in the fall of 2008. 

Jennifer Stewart

Jennifer Stewart was born in Mount Holly, NJ and raised in the Lehigh Valley. Her immediate family still resides in the Lehigh Valley but Jennifer enjoys visiting her extended family in Germany. While attending Penn State University she played volleyball and graduated in 2005 earning a BA in Crime, Law, and Justice and minor in Sociology. Upon graduation she entered the Social Service field.  She spent the last four years dedicating her life to making a positive impact on the lives of troubled youth in her community, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. Jennifer understands that God does not give one more than they can handle. After enduring a personal tragedy, she has become very involved in the church community and taught fitness classes at the church to assist women with living a healthier lifestyle. Jennifer and a group of friends understand the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people and created a book club. From this book club stemmed Ladies of Thought, an informal organization stressing the importance of literacy and empowering young ladies to be the best they can be. As one of the founding members of Ladies of Thought, Jennifer continues to reach out to ladies in the community in order to inspire them to reach their fullest potential reminding them of God's promise, ..."For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.