Today, we’d like to introduce you to Beverly Armento.
Hi Beverly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a lifelong educator, now retired from a long career at Georgia State University, where I wore many hats as a teacher, department chair, researcher, and director of the Center for Business and Economic Education. I loved every moment and never forgot my purpose.
All during my early education, it was my teachers who encouraged, nurtured, and empowered me, a poor kid from the projects who came to school with bruises and pain. But I also arrived at school each day not only with a huge smile but with an attitude of appreciation for learning and for my angel teachers who let me know I was capable, worthy, and strong.
I chose to be an educator to “pay back” all those who had a hand in my strength by passing on those values to my students, whether they were nine or forty-nine. I believed every student was a genius and that it was my responsibility to nurture success for each one. In words and deeds, I encouraged prospective educators who held the same principles.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Growing up in a physically and emotionally abusive home is a challenge many face. I’ve more fully realized this as I talk with readers of my recently published book, Seeing Eye Girl: A Memoir of Madness, Resilience, and Hope. Unfortunately, childhood trauma and adults living with untreated trauma are major problems in our society today. Life’s difficult challenges can cause you to crumble or to be strong. I chose to be strong, compassionate, caring, empathetic, and capable.
Yet, I still bear the effects of the trauma and must continually work on myself to stay that way. There are always new challenges along the road, but I aim to be reflective, calm, and optimistic. I’ve had my share of roadblocks, but I go into this new stage of life and maturity, intent to raise the discourse about childhood trauma, the need for mental health resources, and the important role of trusted adult mentors, such as teachers, coaches, counselors, and religious leaders.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I’m a writer, author, and public speaker. These are the same roles I’ve played as a College Professor but now with different content and new audiences. I have two memoirs on my writing desk at the moment. One is Life’s Turning Points: A Personal Reflection Journal, which is about to be published. Seeing Eye Girl has opened the dialogue for many readers concerned about the issues I’ve raised in my memoir.
I love speaking with readers at their Book Club meetings. In addition, I had the opportunity to present several keynote addresses last year. I’ll soon house the films of those presentations on my (coming soon) YouTube channel. You can find many of my Podcast interviews, as well as articles I’ve written on these topics, on my website: www.beverlyarmentoauthor.com
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Of course, my many teachers played a huge role in who I am today. Likewise, my students have consistently given me strength, hope for the future, and inspiration! My sister and brother, my cast-of-thousands-cousins, my long-time friend and housemate, and my countless friends—and fantastic neighbors—have always been there for me and are supportive and loving.
My photographer this last year, Kai Smith of Eikonik Images, has been a huge cheerleader. All in all, how lucky am I to be surrounded by such cool people!!! Many of the people in my life today go back a long time!!! I’m still in contact with about a dozen fourth graders from my first class!!!
They’re in their 70’s now. What a treasure!!!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beverlyarmentoauthor.com
- Instagram: @beverlyarmento
- Facebook: @Beverly Jeanne Armento
- Linkedin: @Beverly Armento
- TikTok: @beverlyarmentoauthor
Image Credits
Kai Smith
