28
April 1, 2022 • Schneps Media
O F MANHAT TAN
2022
MIGNON R. MOORE, PHD
ROSALIE POLANCO
BETTY PARK
JASMIN RODRIGUEZ
PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY AND DEPARTMENT CHAIR
BARNARD COLLEGE AND COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
DIVERSITY ASSOCIATE
THE NEW TERMINAL ONE AT JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
OWNER
MANNA’S RESTAURANT
BANKING OPERATIONS MANAGER
PONCE BANK
What has been your best moment in business?
My business is the education of bright young minds at Barnard College and Columbia
University. I enjoy shepherding students through their undergraduate careers
and helping them prepare for adulthood.
What is your secret to success?
In moments of doubt I tell myself to be brave. Fear should never be the reason why
we do not try. I give of myself to others to help pave the way for those who come
after me.
Who inspires you the most?
I receive great inspiration from previous generations of Black women who were
“the Firsts” in the work they did, in the goals they accomplished, and in the paths
they charted for other women to follow.
What has been your best moment in business?
Being recommended by my peers for a competitive internship at my alma mater’s
Career Center. Notably, interviewing with Cheryl McKissack for my current role as
Diversity Associate for The New Terminal One and hearing her say “I think you will
fit right in” has been one of my best moments in business.
What is your secret to success?
The secrets to my success have been to remain teachable and only commit myself
to causes I can genuinely champion. To this day I continue to educate others
about the need for required economics courses for all students.
Who inspires you?
My mom for her resilience as a single mother. Alexandra Ocasio Cortez for being
a relatable leader. My team. The Diversity & inclusion team at New Terminal One;
What has been your best moment in business?
My best moments have come from my customers who tell me they love my food,
that I’m a Korean soul sister and embrace me as part of the community.
What is your secret to success?
My secret to success is being married to the restaurant, being willing to serve the
community and really valuing my employees. We are a team and a family. That
creates the flavor of care in the food.
Who inspires you?
Martin Luther King, Jr. inspires me. Without the efforts of Dr. King and so many others
who gave endlessly of themselves, I wouldn’t have the opportunities I’ve had
and this motivates me to work hard and to contribute.
What has been your best moment in business?
At the time, I was told by my Business Manager he was looking to promote me to
Operations Manager. He simply said, “You’re already doing the job. The staff
already looks to you for leadership and guidance.” This recognition has been my
best moment in business.
What is your secret to success?
Taking notes and learning from mistakes. Writing notes to refer to in the future. Also,
no one is perfect, mistakes will be made, it’s how you learn from these mistakes
that matter most.
Who inspires you?
My mother. She is the one who will treat you like family and who people respect.
She simply has a heart of gold.