Verla J. Calhoun-Kelley

VERLA J. CALHOUN

Who are your biggest influencers and mentors personally & professionally and explain why? My biggest influencer and mentor serve both roles on the person and professional side, William (Bill) M. Shaw.  I met Bill when I began working for Turner Broadcasting, Inc. in 1996.  At the time the Company was in the process of building a new arena, “Philips”.  After Philips was built, Bill went on to retire as VP of Human Resources from Turner Broadcasting.  Ted Turner would later ask Bill to come work for his personal company Turner Enterprises, Inc.  Bill listed a position for HR associate.  I sent my resume and, well 22 years later, I oversee the entire function after Bill retired in 2015.  I am honored to have been mentored by Bill.  Our working relationship and his investment in my career are simply put, AMAZING.  Bill was no holds barred.  He made sure that whatever I needed to excel in my career was taking care of.  He supported my philanthropist interest and supported my community involvement initiatives.  I truly admire Mr. Shaw and will always appreciate everything that he did to make me the success I am today.

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