Tiana Goode

After my military service, I spent most of my professional life in administration, growing from office manager into senior leadership. My longest tenure was with a Fortune 150 company, where I worked for 14 years and ultimately served as one of their Senior Security Managers. I loved the work, but the stress became overwhelming, and my kidney health began to decline. When my doctor told me plainly that I needed to make a change or risk my life, I listened. I made a plan, stepped away in 2017, and in many ways began my retirement.

Alongside my corporate career, I spent seven years as a small-business owner. My company, ReBirth Designs, focuses on upcycling and repurposing materials to reduce waste and keep usable items out of landfills. Philanthropy has always been central to who I am, so 10% of every sale was donated to an orphanage and school — ReBirth Academy — in Saboti, Kenya. I still personally support it today. Watching the children we’ve clothed, housed, fed, and educated grow into thriving young adults has been one of the greatest sources of hope and purpose in my life.

My greatest joy, however, has always been my family. I am the mother of two beautiful daughters. My eldest, LaTara, is a trained chef and serial entrepreneur with a smile that lights up any room and a heart just as large. She is completing her bachelor’s in international business and is married to an incredible man, Will III. Through him, I became an instant grandmother, blessed with four grandchildren — and now one great‑grandchild.

My grandchildren each bring their own magic into my life. Will IV, my oldest grandson, is an engineer, married, and a devoted father to my great‑grandson. Taylor is in her second year of college, exploring her path through general studies. Willow is quiet, smart, observant, and gives the best hugs. She has overcome many challenges due to dyslexia and has blossomed into an avid reader. And then there is Teigan, the youngest — a bright, energetic spirit thriving in third‑grade Spanish immersion classes.

My youngest two love art and the beach just like their Tee-Tee, and they are devoted Barbie fans. The backstories they create for their dolls are better than any short film, and there is never a dull moment when they’re around.

My youngest daughter, Kiana, is my glamour girl and wild child. She has a big personality and an even bigger laugh. She can tell you everything there is to know about beauty products and is a gifted makeup artist. She is currently studying Artificial Intelligence, blending her creative flair with a passion for technology.

My life has been full — of service, leadership, creativity, philanthropy, and family. I have reinvented myself more than once, and each chapter has brought its own lessons, joys, and purpose. Through it all, I remain grounded in gratitude, guided by compassion, and inspired by the people I love.