Name: Lynn Cheri Puryear

Occupation: Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Operations

Employer: Akron Urban League

Name of High School: Central Hower High School

Location (City/State): Akron, Ohio

Name of College:  Wilberforce University

Location (City/State):  Wilberforce, Ohio

Please state the reason(s) you are supporting Project GRAD Akron and raising funds for the scholarship fund. I support Project GRAD Akron because of their mission for equitable education and unyielding support for under-resourced students. Their work to ensure that every child can succeed with the right support is something that I stand behind. 

Name of your favorite teacher and what made the person special to you: My favorite teacher was Elizabeth Swartz, my 4th grade teacher at David Hill Elementary. She had the highest expectations of me and helped to make me believe that anything was possible with hard work and as she would say “stick-to-it-ness”. She helped me open my mind to the world outside of my neighborhood through reading, which further developed my love for books.

What were some of your most enjoyable times in school?  (preschool through college): My time at Wilberforce University is one of my favorite memories. It was a true village where everyone knew each other’s names. We held each other accountable, shared failures and triumphs, always there to pick each other up and celebrate wins. BIG shout-out to the WU Financial Aid Office-they knew how to make a dime shine.

Looking back over the years, what advice would you give to your high school self or college self? Surround yourself with positive influences and never underestimate the power of resilience. Take risks and embrace failure because they are stepping stones to growth

Favorite quote: "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are". Carl Jung