Profiles in Leadership

1. What is your name and profession?

Vera McCulloh-Pratt
Accountant, Controller's Office

2. What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

It represents a time to appreciate and recognize the awesome contributions of women in our society, past and present.

3. As a woman, in what ways have you struggled to get to where you are today and how did you overcome those struggles?

I think early on in my working career I struggled more with always trying to prove my worth in the workplace. As a woman, and especially as a minority woman, oftentimes you feel like you are under a microscope. I’ve since learned that it’s just important to always do your best in whatever you do and that eventually your hard work will pay off.  

4. What advice do you have for young women who are aspiring to follow their dreams?

To always give it their all. But most importantly, to not allow others to put limitations on their dreams and aspirations. Shoot for the stars.

5. As a woman in your position, how have you fought for equity in the workplace and for other women?

I have advocated for other women in the workplace and have also encourage other women to advocate for themselves in certain situations.

6. Who was your role model and how did they change your life?

My mother is my role model. Although she didn’t attend school beyond high school, she stressed early on in our lives, the importance of education, and of being self-sufficient. My mother also had a strong sense of community and was a ‘mother’ to many of my friends, and to others in the community. She was a very active and supportive mother, who never missed a school event. She continues today to be that support for her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

7. If you could have dinner with any woman figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I would have to say the late Cicely Tyson because I’ve always admired her grace and resilience.

8. What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls?

My hope for the next generation is that the road to success for them comes with less obstacles/ceilings than the generation before them. That they look at the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices of the wonderful women before them as stepping stones to their success.