Name: Christy H. Porter
Title: Founder & CEO
Company: Jasmine Nyree Campus
Industry: Social Work & Education
- What role has the support of other women played in your success?
I recently read, “A woman alone has power; collectively, we have impact.” It’s important that we work to reverse the stereotype that women don’t support women. Many studies prove women who support women are more successful in business. In my case, my mother played a significant role in my success. She taught me how to speak up for myself, fight for those who could not fight for themselves, authentically be myself, and that there is power in prayer.
I also have a small circle of friends that support me. In this circle, we offer honest advice, help in times of emergencies, and assistance with key business introductions.
- Are you where you thought you would be, and how did you get here?
One of my children was born with autism, and in working to secure quality care, services, and support for her, I was forced to realize quality services and programs were very few in number. However, this scarcity provided the fuel for me to create the first private facility in the country – the Jasmine Nyree Campus, located in Sheraden and named after my daughter. The campus will support marginalized families but primarily support families who need quality programs and care for their loved ones with special needs. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that two years after high school, nearly 40 percent of individuals with autism receive no services. These types of studies and reports continue to fuel my passion and life’s work to help all families and individuals with special needs from early childhood to adulthood.
- What would you tell women about overcoming obstacles?
In overcoming obstacles, remember your why and that your desired result is to leave a legacy. Legacy work is intentional. Legacy work requires long hours and little sleep. Legacy work shoves ego aside; it is, by definition, something that is not for you. Legacy work eradicates change. Life is hard, and the push you must give to reach your goals, make a change, and leave a legacy is required.
