Huami Magazine Huntsville - Jan./Feb. 2026

God Wants A Yes!

A Letter From The Editor - Terry L. Watson

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter from the Editor

Stop running. When these two words were spoken to me, it was as if the life I knew and was familiar with had vanished. Stop running. An awakening had happened in my spirit. The search for the answers to all my troubles and pains had come to a sudden halt. Stop running. Everything that I thought mattered most began to fade away, and almost instantaneously, the realization and onset of what truly mattered began to reveal itself. God, and because He loves His children so much, had sent His Holy Spirit to ask me again to follow Him, totally. God wanted my “yes”.

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

The “yes” that God was seeking involved me trusting in Him. For a great portion of my life, I did what I wanted to do, moved how I wanted to move, and made a lot of messes in the process. Yet, it was only because of the grace and mercies of God that I’ve survived. Many decisions I made were not presented to God beforehand, and the outcomes were very similar, saturated with failures and disappointments. Still, God has provided grace, and I know it’s only because He loves me.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.

As a young boy, I called on the name of God, and asked for His help. I now know that He heard me. God’s hand has always been over my life, yet the time had arrived for me to stop running away from what His interest has always been in me; to submit totally and give Him my “yes”.

General Inquiries

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.

Giving God my “yes” opened a window of clarity. To my spirit, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper alignment, submission, forgiveness, peace, purpose, discipline, eternity, accountability, obedience, trust, faithfulness, power, courage, love, integrity, completeness, favor, mercy, and grace.

In the Bible, the word of God says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NIV). I find it quite amazing that God continues to care for me as much as to send the Holy Spirit after me. I gave God my “yes”, and in doing so, there wasn’t a huge fireworks display or opening of the sky. It only involved me totally submitting and surrendering to God, and the calling He has on my life. Giving God my “yes” opened my eyes to what I had been running from; His total and unconditional love. God wants a “yes”.

Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

Huntsville, AL

McNealy Speech Therapy LLC

Asia McNealy

Montgomery, AL

The Women’s Expo HSV 2026

Tiffany Draper

He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Asiah Apple

McNealey Speech Therapy LLC is On The Move

Asia McNealey

Information obtained from Online at www.mcnealeyspeechtherapyllc.com

McNealey Speech Therapy, LLC was founded in 2023 serving the greater Huntsville area and surrounding towns. Her wealth of knowledge and experience with autism spectrum disorder, early language development, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and speech sound disorders in the pediatric population unite community members to engage in learning and confidence. McNealey Speech Therapy, LLC offers a service delivery model of both direct and indirect (via in-person

and virtual teletherapy). The clinician’s wide range of knowledge facilitates client breakthroughs and efficient results tailored by each individual’s needs.

Asia McNealey is a graduate from both the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL) with a Bachelor of Arts in Communicative Disorders and Francis Marion University (Florence, SC) with a Master of Speech Language Pathology. She completed her clinical fellowship in the Limestone County School System and is steadily mentored by other amazing SLP’s in the area and across states. Asia is nationally licensed by the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and state licensed in both Alabama and Virginia.

“We are extremely passionate about co-treating with other professions and collaborating with families to help children enhance their communication skills and gain confidence. Whether struggling from developmental delays, autism, dysfluency, tongue/lip ties, poor social skills, or feeding struggles.... we are here to help!”

www.mcnealyspeechtherapyllc.com admin@mcnealeyspeechtherapyllc.com

The Women’s Expo HSV 2026

March 27-29, 2026 - Huntsville, AL

Information obtained from Online at www.thewomensexpohsv.com

Imagine stepping into a space that’s buzzing with energy, filled with fun, fresh, and welcoming faces ready to embrace you. Here, women from all walks of life come together to inspire, support, and lift each other higher. You’ll connect, share stories, and walk away with new skills, fresh ideas, and the kind of motivation that lingers long after the weekend ends.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’ve curated workshops, dynamic talks, and powerful panels that dive into real-life topics — from mastering balance, to building leadership confidence, leveling up your finances, and growing both personally and professionally.

And the Marketplace? It’s a treasure trove of women-owned brands, offering unique finds you’ll love while supporting entrepreneurs on the rise. Our mission is simple: to make sure every woman leaves feeling empowered, celebrated, and ready to step fully into her potential.

Our Mission

To empower, educate, and elevate women from all walks of life by creating dynamic spaces for connection, collaboration, and celebration—while amplifying women-owned businesses and fostering a culture of legacy-building and leadership.

Event History

The Women’s Expo Huntsville began in March 2021, in honor of Women’s History Month, born from a vision by our founder, Tiffany Draper. She believed deeply that by creating a space where women from all walks of life could connect, support one another, and be exposed to local businesses and resources, it would not only foster entrepreneurship but inspire a movement.

Our Team

Our team is made up of passionate and dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to make sure every aspect of the event runs smoothly. We are committed to providing the best possible experience for our attendees and ensuring that The Women’s Expo Hsv is a success every year. h

Faith-Driven Entrepreneur PorschaLawson

By Terry L.Watson

Lawson

Porscha Lawson of Huntsville, AL, is a faith-driven entrepreneur and a woman deeply rooted in faith, purpose, and resilience. She is also a real estate professional and a creative visionary. A native of Augusta, GA, that is where she developed strong values centered on community, determination, and service, which guide her personal and professional journey. Porscha currently resides in North Alabama. In addition to being a wife of one year, she is a devoted mother to a six-year-old son.

Porscha studied Exercise Science at Georgia State University. She is a former track and field All-American who competed on multiple national stages. She states that her athletic background instilled discipline, focus, perseverance, and consistency—qualities that continue to shape how she approaches business, leadership, and life. Today, she is a Realtor® with Virtuous Realty Global and serves as the founder and creator of the Mustard Seed Moves® brand.

Porscha has worked in real estate for one and a half years, and is driven by a desire to help individuals and families navigate ownership with clarity and confidence. “Through real estate, I assist buyers, sellers, renters, and investors with residential and investment properties, while also supporting transactions as a closing coordinator,” she says. She adds the vision for Mustard Seed Moves® was born during a personal season of growth and stretching. “It came from the understanding that faith requires action, and that small, intentional steps—taken consistently— can produce lasting change. In my role, I am able to create faith-based journals, devotionals, and lifestyle products designed to help people take meaningful steps toward healing, growth, and purpose.”

“Through real estate, I assist buyers, sellers, renters, and investors with residential and investment properties, while also supporting transactions as a closing coordinator.”

Whether it’s helping someone reach the closing table or seeing them recognize their growth through reflection, as a Realtor, Porscha states that she enjoys being part of her clients’ lives when they realize they are capable of more than they thought. She describes these moments as confidence-building experiences. She also has a genuine love her family, and shares that her son is the primary reason that she moves as she does. “My son motivates me, and everything I do is rooted in building a legacy he can be proud of. He motivates me to lead with integrity, to persevere through challenges, and to demonstrate what faith in action truly looks like.”

With real estate being one of the fastest-growing industries over the last decade, it has also become a very crowded one. For Porscha, acquiring her market share is directly connected to her ability to be the best in her field, which is something that she strives to accomplish daily. She is also faced with the hurdle of financial uncertainty, personal transitions, and the challenge of building while navigating real-life responsibilities. “Balancing growth with grace has been one of my most significant challenges,” she shares. “I have been able to manage these challenges through faith, discipline, and strategy. Additionally, I often pray for direction and discernment. Journaling, planning, and staying connected to my purpose have helped me remain grounded and focused through every season,” Porscha explained.

Porscha’s outlook on her life and career is very optimistic. She plans to continue to grow her real estate business while expanding Mustard Seed Moves® into a recognizable faith-based lifestyle brand that includes journals, events, and community-focused initiatives that encourage intentional growth and stewardship. She also offers some advice to others whose aspirations and dreams may align with hers. “Don’t underestimate small beginnings. Stay consistent, protect your integrity, and allow your journey to unfold authentically. Remember that success built on alignment and purpose will always be sustainable.” h

Amanda Roseborough Lux Bar Catering

By Terry L. Watson

Amanda Roseborough of Huntsville, AL, is the Founder and CEO of Lux Bar Catering. Her company specializes in a fusion of flavors between multiple cuisines and promises unforgettable experiences for her array of clients and supporters.

Amanda is originally from Lithonia, GA. She has called Huntsville, AL, home for the past 15 years. She is a mother of six, a woman of God, and a lifelong lover of the culinary arts. She says, “I moved to Huntsville for college nearly 19 years ago. Though I never planned to stay, I fell in love with the city and chose to raise my family here. Huntsville has embraced me, and I am deeply grateful for the community that continues to support and uplift lUXbar Catering.”

At lUXbarCatering, Amanda shares their philosophy is “Catering the Experience.” “We believe catering is more than food—it’s about presentation, service, beauty, and unforgettable moments delivered with excellence. Our vision is to grow lUXbar Catering into a multi-state company, offering consistent luxury packages and curated experiences wherever we serve.”

Amanda has over 20 years of culinary experience, yet her love for cooking has spanned throughout her entire life. She says, “My passion for cooking began at a very young age— around six years old—when I first discovered the joy of creating meals that bring people together. Through my mother and grandmother’s cooking, it was their skill of cooking from scratch that built the foundation of my style of cooking today. No matter where life placed me—family gatherings, potlucks, or celebrations—I was always the one cooking,” she says. For years, Amanda says people told her, “You should start a catering business,” yet ultimately, it was up to God’s timing for her calling to become clear.

“Food has always been my creative outlet..... I have a natural eye for presentation and love bringing vibrant color, bold flavor, and elegance to every dish.”

Before stepping fully into entrepreneurship, Amanada spent over 15 years in the finance industry, all while continuing to cook and refine and hone her craft. “Food has always been my creative outlet,” she adds. “I have a natural eye for presentation and love bringing vibrant color, bold flavor, and elegance to every dish. My style is expressive, intentional, and rooted in excellence—creating food that not only tastes incredible but leaves a lasting impression.”

Having grown up vegetarian, Amanda connects with her childhood by specializing in vegan and vegetarian cuisine from scratch, while also offering versatile menus that appeal to a wide range of palates. She states, “I love experimenting with flavors and sauces—many of which were first tested and perfected by my children at our family table before being shared with clients. If you know my food, you know: it’s an experience.”

Above all, Amanda professes that God is at the center of everything she does. “He is my business partner. Since placing lUXbar Catering fully in His hands, He has opened doors, aligned me with incredible mentors, chefs, and supporters, and planted this business firmly within the Huntsville community,” she says. “In addition to my culinary work, I am in the process of launching a nonprofit organization, The House of Hope and Prayer Ministries. This ministry will serve as a place of restoration—providing food, clothing, resources, and placement assistance for single parents, individuals affected by homelessness, house fires, and those in need. Most importantly, it will be a place where people encounter hope, faith, and the love of Jesus Christ.”

Amanda says she is grateful to God for blessing her with the vision of lUXbar Catering. She is also appreciative of God allowing food to be the vessel through which she is able to serve His people—both physically and spiritually. In conclusion, Amanda says, “I look forward to all that He has in store for lUXbar Catering, my family, and the communities we serve.” h

Queen City Robotics Alliance Robert Hillman

“Your Home For Charlotte Area Robotics”

By Terry L. Watson

Robert Hillman of Charlotte, NC, is proof that when we give with good intentions, all good things will return. Rob is the Chief Executive Officer of Queen City Robotics Alliance, Inc (QCRA).

QCRA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization located in Charlotte that is engaged in competitive robotics – think AAU robotics. It was founded in 2014 by Lia Schwinghammer initially as an umbrella fundraising entity for FIRST® teams and events in Charlotte, NC. FIRST is an acronym for For Inspiration and Recognition and Science and Technology. Its mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders by engaging them in exciting mentor- and project-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, inspire innovation, and foster well-rounded life skills, including selfconfidence, communication, and leadership. Unlike other youth sports leagues, everyone in FIRST “goes pro.”

Rob is the son of Robert and Mary Hillman. He was born in Los Angeles, CA, but was raised in Brooklyn, NY. His mother was a PTA President and Community Advocate, and his father was a Master Sergeant in the US Marines. Having his parents as role models, Robert says, instilled in him the idea of service and the sense that he must do for others. Robert’s father passed away when he was a young boy, yet the impression was already in place and set the trajectory for his life.

In Brooklyn, Robert attended the public school system. The schools he attended were P.S. 241 and I.S. 320. He also attended Stuyvesant High School. Rob’s preparation to attend Stuyvesant High School was aided by his participation in the NTA Math & Chess Club in Brooklyn. This opportunity allowed Rob to work alongside Black engineers sponsored by the National Technical Association (NTA). It also opened the doors for Rob to attend MIT at the age of 17. At MIT, Rob studied Electrical Engineering and was focused on the physics of materials and how light interacts with materials. As an engineer, Rob worked for Teradyne Corporation and Optron Systems, a start-up company founded by one of his professors, Cardinal Warde, who hails from Barbados.

I didn’t get here on my own. I didn’t get to attend MIT, travel the world as an investment banker on my own. People have helped me along the way.”

After working as an engineer for seven years, Rob attended NYU Stern School of Business and earned an MBA in Finance and International Business. He would also work for Barclays and Bank of America, and both companies required Rob to travel for work, including outside of the United States. He shares, “It’s a very interesting experience when you travel outside of the United States. People looked at me as enabled and capable, versus unable and incapable, in the US. Often in rooms in the US, I got the look as if I didn’t belong. In Europe, Asia, and Africa, I was received based on my credentials and what I could offer.”

Rob is especially proud of his daughter, Braeanna, who earned her Master’s Degree in Public Health from Tulane University, served on the Pre K - 12 COVID-19 Planning Team of the Office of State Superintendent of Education in Washington, D.C., and is currently pursuing a degree in Nursing.

The

goal is to promote exposure to STEM as a workforce development tool so that after moving throughout our facility, the students can get a good idea of what they want to do.”

Now, at this stage of Rob’s life, his focus is on helping children understand what they enjoy and what their interests are. He serves as the CEO of Queen City Robotics Alliance Inc., located in Charlotte, NC. Queen City Robotics manages a 12,000-square-foot competitive robotics practice facility in the Steel Creek community. They have three leagues onsite: the Elementary School League (FIRST Lego League), the Middle School League (FIRST Tech Challenge), and the High School League (FIRST Robotics Competition). Each of them requires a practice field where they can build, design, and test their robots for competition. The facility comes outfitted with fabrication equipment, including drills, saws, lathes, milling machines, and 3-D printers; all of the things that students need to bring their ideas to life. There are also pits where the students can build their robots and store their equipment, such as wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, markers, and more. The students also have access to a collaboration space with whiteboards where they can draw and discuss their ideas, as well as storyboard their presentations.

Rob explains that the facility’s purpose is to promote upward economic mobility through exposure to STEMbased careers. To achieve this, the organization uses several programs, including FIRST Robotics, NASA Space Apps, and coding after-school and summer camp classes.

“The goal is to promote exposure to STEM (including Artificial Intelligence) as a workforce development tool so that, by moving throughout our facility, students gain a clear understanding of potential career pathways, can access high-paying STEM jobs available to those with the necessary training, and help ensure the local economy has the skilled workforce it needs to succeed,” Rob says.

He adds that competitive robotics is a particularly effective approach to engage the next generation. “Instead of sitting kids down and lecturing them, we create a space where they can compete and use their creativity to actively engage. In a way, we trick them into understanding math and science and they enjoy it.”

When asked what drives him, Rob says it all comes down to the path he has traveled. “I didn’t get here on my own. I didn’t get to attend MIT or travel the world as an investment banker on my own. People have helped me along the way. When I was in middle school, I loved to play basketball. The building I lived in had a fire escape with a ladder. The ladder’s rungs were what we used as our basket. The first rung was one point, the second rung was two points, and the third rung was three points. We used to play in front of the apartment window of Mr. Emmitt. To preserve his property, and likely his peace, he bought us an actual basketball hoop and attached it to a building down the street, away from his window. Mr. Emmitt used his own money to support the kids in his neighborhood, and that modeling stuck with me.” He also acknowledges the NTA’s Math and Chess program for helping shape his life, among others.

Queen City Robotics’ goal is to offer its program to students from all economic and ethnic backgrounds. The average cost per student is $2,200 and does not include transportation to and from the facility, which could add an additional $2,000 using rideshare companies. “We rely on the generosity of state and local governments, corporations, and individuals to lower the barriers for students to participate.”

Another challenge has been getting African American students and young women involved. He says, “We need more African American and Hispanic kids to be involved with our program. We also need young women. We have formed partnerships with organizations such as the 100 Black Men of Greater Charlotte, where most of our African American students come from. We look forward to working with the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers, the Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers to increase the diversity of our teams. We also need more mentors – of all ethnicities – who are ready to step up and coach kids. We don’t require our coaches to be technical experts, only that they have a clean record and interest in giving back to the next generation.”

As a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Rob has leaned on other historically Black fraternities and sororities (the “Divine 9”) for support, mentors, and students. “To increase the ‘cool factor’ and boost our numbers, we have become more social media savvy and are exploring additional ways to expand our reach to more mentors and students.

What is next for Queen City Robotics? Rob says they are bursting at the seams at their existing facility. “We are exploring opening additional facilities around our county. We have 300 kids and 22 teams at our current facility and could probably accommodate an additional three or four teams now, but that would be it. As mentioned, we will continue to invest in STEM and are looking for ways to bring more African Americans, Hispanics and young women into our program. We will continue to focus on building up our Summer and After School Classes. Lastly, we will attack our goal of raising $500,000 to enhance operational efficiency and improve access to our programs for income-challenged families. Our country depends on the success of our students and our programs.”

To support Queen City Robotics Alliance,Inc., please consider a generous donation at www.givebutter.com/qcrasustain

For more information, please visit Queen City Robotics’ website – www.queencityrobotics.org

Queen City Robotics Alliance Acknowledges and Thanks The Following Supporters

Board of Directors

Mark Rohlinger

Kaiwen Cheng

Tamara Cornish

Christian Dow

Paul Henry

Niteesh Elias

Puneet Mody

Individual Donors

Randy Sergesketter

Brian and Laina Keiger

Peter Greishop

Staff

Robbie Hoyler

Iaiela Dumitrescu

Korey Gaddy

Jordan Lopez

Ray Kimble

Carrie Dow

Corporations/Foundations

Bosch Rexroft

Sullenburger Museum

Materials Handling Industry of America

Ashley Furniture

John Deere

Infosys

Arts and Science Council of Me

Society of Information Management - Charlotte

PMMI Foundation

Recore Electric

Jones Lang LaSalle

Corporations/Foundations

Columbus McKinnon

Faster Glass

Beacon Partners

Dual Boot

Salant Family Foundation

Cheng Family

Urenia Ricks-Johnson Attorney

Ricks & Associates Law Offices

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Urenia Hicks-Johnson

Urenia Hicks-Johnson, of Detroit, MI, is the founder of Ricks & Associates, PLLC, located in West Bloomfield, MI. She describes herself as a woman of faith and purpose. She also has a strong love for family and community. For 12 years, she has shared her life with Phillip Johnson, and together they are raising three children: Monyca, Brooke, and Phillip Johnson, Jr. Urenia is a graduate of Lutheran High East in East Point, MI. She later graduated from Eastern Michigan University and then earned her law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, MI.

Urenia is the first attorney in her family. According to the State Bar of Michigan, women account for about 47.9% of Michigan Attorneys (almost half). Black or AfricanAmerican attorneys are 6.6% of the total. As of 2026, Urenia has been successfully practicing law for 22 years. She says the vision to practice law began in sixth grade. “It was then that I told my parents that I wanted to be a lawyer. I’ve always been the spokesperson. I was the youngest in my family, and I grew up with three older brothers. Whenever my brothers wanted something from my parents, they would always send me to ask them. My love for representing and advocating for others started then,” she says.

When asked what she loves most about practicing law, Urenia says it’s the opportunity to help others understand how the law works. “Seeing others grasp the concept of law is very fulfilling for me. That is why I have provided a lot of education and conducted seminars for others to learn what the law can do for you, and what it can’t do.”

I’ve always been the spokesperson. I was the youngest in my family, and I grew up with three older brothers. Whenever my brothers wanted something from my parents, they would always send me to ask them.”

Trying to communicate and advocate for others who don’t understand the capabilities of the law. We are inundated with so much information, some of it misinformation, and getting people to understand how you can help them is very challenging.”

Urenia credits her mother, Barbara Coleman, with having a significant impact on her life and career. She adds, “My mother has been a huge advocate for her family and has always loved and looked out for others. Throughout my journey to becoming a lawyer, she has inspired me to speak up, advocate for others, and be a help to others in the community. She instilled those values, and even now, she still exhibits those qualities. She has taught me to remain focused on the big picture of being a help to others.”

Misinformation, Urenia says, is the biggest challenge that she has faced as an attorney. “Trying to communicate and advocate for others who don’t understand the capabilities of the law. We are inundated with so much information, some of it misinformation, and getting people to understand how you can help them is very challenging.” Urenia answers this challenge by being committed to her calling and ensuring that others are aware and spoken for.

While practicing law, there have been some cases that have pulled at the strings of Urenia’s heart. She recalls one where she was trying to help a granddaughter who lost her grandmother, who raised her. The granddaughter had been left many different assets. “The young lady’s mother and other siblings had struggled with a drug addiction. She came to me seeking help with obtaining and probating the assets left to her. I went to court on her behalf, pursuing a $30,000 claim. There wasn’t anything documented in the court records listing the granddaughter as the beneficiary. Because her grandmother didn’t legally adopt her, and because we didn’t have any documentation to support her, such as a will or estate planning, the money went to an uncle. Within 30 days, the uncle was dead due to an overdose. This was a memorable moment for me, as I can only imagine what would have happened if the granddaughter had the proper planning in place,” Urenia says. It is because of that case, she says, that she continues to advocate for estate planning in her community.

Giving back to her community is very important to Urenia. One of the ways she gives back is through a non-profit, the Corporate Development Institute, of which she serves as Executive Director. These individuals provide educational seminars throughout the year that teach others about estate and legacy planning and how to build generational wealth. Urenia also conducts financial literacy seminars and oversees a mentoring program. “Since 2015, I have been dedicated to providing a pathway for young girls to understand the law and create avenues for them to enter into our profession, be well represented, and know how to handle themselves in a corporate space,” she says.

It has been quite a ride for Urenia throughout her career. She says there have been happy moments and some that have brought tears to her eyes. Yet, she appreciates them all, and there are only a few things that she would change. “One thing that I would change would be for me to be patient. I have learned that seasons come and seasons go, and I have learned to enjoy the ride as it goes. I learned from the mistakes I made and turned them into teachable moments. Now, I understand that things had to happen for a reason.”

For others who may follow a path similar to Urenia, she offers some sound advice. “Hang in there even when it gets tough, because it is worth it in the end. Also, I encourage others to learn about the law and be able to apply it, because it’s a great skill to have. Most importantly, make sure that you are teachable along the way,” she says.

What is next for Urenia and Ricks & Associates, PLLC? Urenia shares that she hopes to teach at the law school level. She also hopes to expand her nonprofit, Corporate Development Institute, and teach young girls what it means to be an attorney. She also plans to continue advocating for others and educating them about the law and what it can do for them.

Synergy Counseling of Greenwood CeCe Paul-Hill

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood

Earcelia Paul-Hill is the founder and face of Synergy Counseling of Greenwood, located in Greenwood, South Carolina. Established in 2013, Synergy Counseling began as a solo private practice. By 2015, however, the growing demand for accessible and culturally responsive mental health care within the community led Earcelia to expand Synergy into a multi-clinician practice.

Earcelia’s passion for counseling was born during her young adulthood following her late grandfather’s diagnosis of dementia and his placement in a long-term care facility. Witnessing firsthand the emotional, mental, and physical impact of mental illness on both individuals and families profoundly shaped her understanding of mental health care. That experience became the catalyst for her lifelong commitment to advocacy and clinical service.

A native of Abbeville, South Carolina, Earcelia graduated from Abbeville High School in 1990. She later attended the University of South Carolina–Columbia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology. She went on to obtain her master’s degree in counseling and art therapy from Webster University.

With family at the center of her heart and vision, Earcelia became a Licensed Professional Counselor, earning advanced training and certifications in Master Addiction Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). Her professional experience spans several sectors, including higher education, where she served as Assistant Director of Counseling at Lander University. Ultimately, it was a personal family need that inspired her transition into private practice.

“I chose to enter private practice rather than continue working within community agencies because I needed the flexibility to be present for my one and only son, SJ,” Earcelia shared. “Whether educationally, spiritually, or emotionally, I wanted to be there for him, and owning my own business was the only way I could make that possible.”

Though the decision was intimidating, it is one she does not regret. Today, her son SJ is a junior at the Governor’s School of Science and Mathematics in Hartsville, South Carolina, and ranked first out of 416 students at Greenwood High School during his sophomore year. “As a single mother and professional, it feels incredibly rewarding to see my son thriving. He is truly my pride and joy,” she expressed.

Earcelia openly acknowledges that building a successful brand and practice has come with its share of challenges. Yet, she continues to press forward. Recently celebrating ten years of Synergy Counseling, she reflects with gratitude. “I could not have done this alone. I am deeply thankful for the clinicians and team members who make up Synergy. What I love most about my Synergy family is that every clinician and staff member brings unique strengths,” she explained. “We work well together, and over time I’ve learned how critical it is to be intentional about selecting individuals who represent and align with Synergy’s mission and values.”

It is this intentional and integrative approach that allows Synergy Counseling to address the growing mental health needs within the community. “What I look forward to most each day is collaborating with a diverse team that shares the same compassion and purpose to serve others,” Earcelia stated. “We are constantly working to break stigma and address barriers surrounding mental health through education and community engagement.”

She finds fulfillment in providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can begin their healing journeys. “Hearing clients express gratitude for the support they receive here at Synergy reminds us that our work truly matters.” She also draws motivation from past doubt and opposition. “I am motivated by those who didn’t believe in me. Their doubt pushes me to do better.”

Earcelia’s vision for Synergy Counseling is holistic care, which has led to partnerships with a psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides assessments and ongoing support for both Synergy clients and the broader community. She attributes much of her success to her parents, particularly her father, Curtis Paul Sr., whom she deeply admires. “Although my father did not attend college, he ensured that my siblings and I did. He paid out of pocket for all three of our undergraduate degrees because he believed in the power of education,” she shared. “He instilled in me the importance of independence, resilience, and believing that I am always capable of more.” He also emphasized remaining spiritually grounded and maintaining a personal relationship with Christ.

Earcelia credits her mother with teaching her empathy and compassion. “My mother is the epitome of unconditional love and unwavering support. She taught me how to nurture others and meet people where they are,” she says.

Throughout her journey, Earcelia has used her experiences to mentor and inspire aspiring counselors. “Several clinicians who have worked at Synergy have gone on to open their own private practices,” she said. “I often guide them through credentialing, insurance panels, and the realities—both positive and challenging—of practice ownership.”

One lesson she consistently emphasizes is self-care. “This is a 24/7 career. You must set boundaries between your practice, your family, and yourself. You cannot pour from an empty cup.” She also stresses the importance of a strong support system. “Iron sharpens iron. While this is my practice, I value collaboration and input from my team. We are in a profession that requires lifelong learning, and I believe in keeping everyone equipped.”

Looking ahead, Earcelia’s vision for Synergy Counseling is bold yet clear. “My goal is to make Synergy a household name worldwide.” Through rebranding efforts and digital outreach supported by videographer Abul Blue (Da Voice Box), Synergy Counseling has expanded its reach beyond Greenwood and surrounding areas. As the practice continues to grow, community partnerships remain central to its mission. “Together,” Earcelia says, “my team and I are creating legacy.”

“Being present for my son, SJ, was my greatest motivation. Private practice gave me the flexibility our journey required.” h

Earcelia Paul-Hill

Synergy Counseling of Greenwood 101 East Cambridge Ave Greenwood, SC 29646

864-223-2243

synergycounselinggreenwood.com

Asiah Apple