Markeyta White

On Sunday June 26, 2011, history was made for Unity Performing Arts Foundation. Markeyta White, daughter of Founder, CEO and Life Coach of UPAF, became the first alumnus of the organization to present a public donation in the amount of $1,000 towards the Scholarship Fund. This was a powerful moment for the organization, as it was the first monetary display of the organization’s pledge: “We will reach back to give back.” UPAF recently took the time to speak with Miss White regarding her recent achievements and the influences which brought her to bestow such a generous and selfless gift to UPAF. The following is our wonderful conversation.

What high school and college or university did you attend? What was your major? What year did you graduate?

Paul Harding High School- Fort Wayne IN, University of Indianapolis-Bachelor of Science in Nursing 2010.

What are you doing currently in life?

 I'm working at Methodist Hospital on a Cardiovascular Surgical Unit.

What is your history with Unity Performing Arts Foundation? When and why did you become a member?

I joined UPAF in 2001. My father is the founder/CEO and I wanted to support. UPAF seemed so fresh, fun, & exciting.

How has UPAF helped you reach your current career goals?

The environment was conducive to learning and challenging myself on many levels. It enforced daily principles and leadership skills to live by. The organization also resided on a college campus and got me comfortable in that type of setting.

How do you think you have changed since joining the organization?

The program has empowered & cultivated me into a wise woman on a rise!

What is your greatest UPAF memory?

I enjoyed preparing for the concerts with the band. The 10year reunion rehearsal was so exhilarating! It was great to see and hear the rich, seasoned voices of the young adults!

What prompted you to present UPAF with the donation towards the scholarship fund?

I was led by God to give. I enjoy giving and would give so much more if I had it!

You are considerably still a recent graduate. Most recent college graduates do not have the funds to provide such a gift. How did you manage this?

There was a former alumni financial session provided by UPAF and they introduced Financial Peace University (FPU). I joined FPU in January 2011, created a UPAF envelope, and set a goal date. I saved money from each paycheck over a 6 month period.

How did presenting this donation make you feel?

I felt fantastic!!! UPAF is just spectacular!!

UPAF's pledge is: "We will reach back to give back." Explain what this means to you, as an alumna.

You should  unselfishly give with the purpose of brightening up someone's life. It's all about never forgetting to give a helping hand to those who assisted you in the past as well.

What words of encouragement and/or admonishment would you like to share with your fellow UPAF alumni?

Work on leaving a lasting imprint in this world. Take action by starting and/or continue an everlasting legacy!

What's next for you? Do you have any new educational or career endeavors?

I will continue to build more working experience in my career, so we'll see what the future holds!

For additional information concerning individuals featured in the UPAF Highlight Zone, please contact Stephanie Woodson, Staff Writer via e-mail at stephaniecwoodson@yahoo.com