I am originally from Cincinnati and grew up in Mt. Auburn. I started my education at St. George which is now Corryville Catholic. I graduated from Withrow High School where I was a member of the girls’ basketball team. I have my undergraduate degree from the University of Cincinnati. I attend Xavier University where I am in the Executive MBA program. I now reside on the Westside of Cincinnati where I am known as the Urban Gardener. I am currently Assistant Director of Housing Opportunities Made Equal which is a Fair Housing agency that fights housing discrimination in the greater Cincinnati area. I am currently a student at Xavier University in the Executive MBA Program.
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have one daughter who is the Angel of my life. I am the youngest of eleven. I have five brothers and five sisters.
Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
While working as a community liaison for then Vice Mayor Alicia Reece, I developed my passion for being the voice and helping the residents of my community. I fight against housing discrimination and help people live where they choose. I love advocating on behalf of my clients.
What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
My two favorite restaurants in Cincinnati are Burnette Soul Food and Alabama Que
How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have been living in Cincinnati all my life only leaving to attend Kentucky State University.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most interesting person I have met was Marian Spencer. She shared her experiences with me about living in Cincinnati and raising her children here.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would travel to Africa and take and African Dance class from professionals.
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite movie was a Circle of Friends 1995, and my favorite TV Show was Good Times.
What advice would you give to people?
Not everything that is faced can be changed but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
What is something on your bucket list?
To go to the Holy land.
What is your go to music when you cant decide what to listen to?
I listen to Reggae Lover’s Rock Classics.
What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The roller rink that used to be on Gilbert Avenue.
If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to speak with Ketanji Brown Jackson and find out where did she get the courage go into law? We would meet at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Walnut Hills where I would provide the meal.
What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My daughter and I love visiting the roof top restaurants in the area. Love the different views on the hills.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself working for a non-profit business that I started.
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love to read romance novels.
What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
St. Catherine Pier in Jamacia
Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Best month is August. My favorite holiday is Christmas. The best single day on the calendar is September 13th.
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The Cincinnati Bengals
Who inspires you to be better?
My Sorority Sisters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Roses Blooming in Springtime. Bar-be-que grilling anytime.
Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, Peace, and Joy
LaTonya has been described as a freedom fighter because she fights for the fair housing rights of those who may have faced discrimination. Thanks LaTonya!
