Trailblazer SPOTLIGHT: Veleka Gatling
Profession: Associate Vice President for Equity and Inclusive Excellence
Organization Name: Old Dominion University
Organization Website: www.odu.edu/equity
Years lived in Norfolk: I am a native of Norfolk. I lived here from birth to 11 and then returned 6 years ago.
Three Words to Describe you: Energetic, Bridge builder, Reflective
Pronouns: she/hers
Tell us about yourself.
I am the product of a blended family. My mom remarried when I was 8 years old. I have 7 siblings, and I am right in the middle. My family has shaped who I am. My blended family, my late dad, and grandparents were HUGE forces in my life. I was so blessed when my mom remarried that she chose someone who provided stability and so many opportunities for me to be great. My grandparents were a stable force in my life, as they provided structure, love, and overall security. My grandfather played the piano and was a Baptist Minister. He was a college graduate, so yes I am third-generation college-educated.
With over 30 years in public education, I have served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, executive director of special and gifted programs, and executive director of professional learning in various school divisions in Hampton Roads.
I am a musical theatre buff. I graduated from the first class of GSA here in Hampton Roads in 1989. I love bringing people together in service to our community and each other.
Tell us about being the Vice President for Diversity and Inclusive Excellence at ODU.
I started as a lecturer in the College of Education at ODU, prior to starting in the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity. I transitioned to the office as a director, when Dr. Janice Underwood left to be the CDO for the Commonwealth. Being in the office has provided me with an opportunity to continue to research, provide education, advocate, and learn about all things related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It provided me with opportunities to network and learn from others whose lived and learned experiences differ from mine, and yet we can work together to achieve common goals, that benefit our faculty, students, and staff.
How did you get connected to the ERT and the Foundation?
I met Kindra during a session of CIVIC Leadership. We realized that we knew a lot of the same people and that we both shared a passion for closing opportunity gaps. We are both grateful for the opportunities we have been given to be successful, and we want to provide that for others. Being a part of the ERT Board is another opportunity for me to be a bridge builder.
Given your background, what benefits do you feel the trail has for Norfolk?
As a native of the area, coupled with experiences in education and my current work in equity and inclusive excellence, I feel that the trail provides open access for all residents to travel and exercise.
What does being a part of the trail user community mean to you?
It means that I am doing my part to contribute to the community resources, that at one time in history were not accessible to all people.
If you met someone who just moved to Norfolk, what would you say to get them interested in the trail?
Meet me at Harbor Park, so I can show you. I would ask them if they were interested in seeing Norfolk in another way, other than a car.
What is your favorite place on the trail?
No, I like it all!
Favorite Trailgrazing spot? (i.e. best local food spot steps from the trail)
The Chelsea Business District.
