Hailing from the port City of Mobile, Alabama, Martha believes, like Hitch, one should “never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. And if you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.” As a Human Resources Vice President, it’s no surprise she is top of her game motivated by the stories of her great grandmother Hannah Washington, a woman whom, by all accounts, was business savvy at a time when it was unconventional for women to do so.
Inspired by her father who taught her to stand for what she believes in and her mother’s reminders of our great heritage, our blessings, and to be a blessing to others, she is actively engaged in living it out with her involvement with groups like the Birmingham Urban League Young Professionals and the Birmingham Urban League Board of Directors. She also devotes her time to her local assembly as Vice President of Our Lady of Fatima’s Parish Council and Secretary of Our Lady of Fatima School’s Foundation.
Be aware, however, if you ask her about her childhood nickname she may call you on the carpet like Vera in Harlem Nights with “Oh! Now you’re gonna shoot me in my pinky toe?” The nickname is equally as painful!
When there is time to spare, Martha enjoys decorating, gardening, outings with friends, and reading in a comfy chair. She recommends everyone read The Heart of a Woman by Maya Angelou.