Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Stephanie Ricks.
Hi Dr. Ricks, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communications and Theater with a concentration in Mass Communication from Tennessee State University, a Master of Arts in Communication Arts with a specialization in Corporate Communications from Austin Peay State University, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University. Accumulating over sixteen years of experience working in higher education at five HBCUs, my abiding commitment to educational advancement is unequivocal.
While residing in Nashville, I was not progressing in my career. This prompted a period of reflection, prayer, fasting, and discernment. I then felt led by divine guidance to make a significant move to Atlanta, Georgia to start an institution of learning- that was in March 2015. Although I initially attempted to establish three schools and training centers when I moved to Atlanta, none resonated with me lacking the necessary passion and motivation.
Fast forward to October 2021, I embarked on a career in real estate by taking the 75-Hour Georgia Pre-License Salesperson class and final exam; I then successfully passed the State exam in February 2022. It was during this educational pursuit that the concept of establishing a real estate school formed. In the early months of 2023, I conducted thorough research on establishing a real estate school in Georgia. I diligently prepared and submitted the requisite documentation to the Georgia Real Estate Commission. Following a thorough review process, WR Real Estate Academy received official approval and was launched in July 2023, making a significant milestone in my professional journey, as well as an opportunity to work with my teenage son, Delton, as co-owner. WR Real Estate Academy offers the 75-Hour Georgia Pre-License Salesperson class and thirteen continuing education courses for real estate agents.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Throughout my journey, I encountered substantial learning opportunities. My attempts to initiate various businesses proved unsuccessful, primarily because I lacked genuine passion for those ventures. I also lacked complete confidence in promoting the businesses as effectively as required. My initial focus was solely on financial gains, resulting in monetary losses. With regard to my real estate school, the documentation underwent revisions on at least four occasions. While this proved to be somewhat disheartening, my determination prevailed, and I refused to let it hinder me from achieving my goals. These setbacks became invaluable lessons, offering insights that significantly contributed to my knowledge and understanding of entrepreneurship.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My professional journey spans a diverse spectrum, with a dedicated sixteen-year tenure in higher education. During this time, I have had the privilege of leading institutional functions in enrollment management, including graduate admissions and financial aid. I have also held roles as a university registrar and serve as an assistant professor of mass communication. Throughout my career, my focus has been on assisting thousands of students across professional, graduate, and undergraduate levels.
In addition to my work in higher education, my entrepreneurial spirit has led me to serve as an educational consultant for doctoral candidates and a communication consultant, conducting training sessions and workshops to enhance communication skills among employees and team members. Transitioning into a real estate career is a natural progression for me, rooted in a family legacy of residential property development dating back to my grandaddy’s construction of his first home of many in the 1940s. My aim is to elevate this legacy by helping families find joy in buying and selling real estate and development.
The educational facet of my real estate endeavors is directed toward individuals seeking to transition from their current careers to the dynamic field of real estate through my real estate school – WR Real Estate Academy. Recognizing that real estate offers diverse paths to financial liberation, I am grateful for the opportunity to guide and assist others in this transformative journey. Beyond my professional pursuits, I have authored two books and hosted a podcast called “The Dr. Stephanie Show.” My passion lies in being a servant leader, contributing knowledge and information across the realms of real estate, ministry, and higher education.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The attribute I consider most crucial to my success is maintaining a constant connection through prayer and attentiveness to God.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.whitericksrealty.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedrstephanie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitericks
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/drstephaniericks
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt7TNBhjAVoVJJRQ0K56qzA
- Other: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-stephanie-show/id1508973074
Image Credits
Mr. Jeno
