Culture...Connection...Creativity

As I continue my journey as a communications practitioner, I am excited about networking with and meeting other professionals. As I think about how I begin networking with various organizations, I must consider who I am and what I bring to the experience.

I am CULTURE.

I share culture. Culture is part of what makes me who I am. It makes us who we are.  Culture often brings context in wide-open spaces. Culture acknowledges who is here with me and some of what I bring. My culture brings together the struggle of the civil rights movement with the privilege of an ivy league education. My culture is urban, rural, and suburban, all in one. 

I embrace culture. Culture must not only be understood, but celebrated. My work seeks to honor the culture of people and organizations. Culture cannot be ignored when working to reach various publics. It must be acknowledged and understood. 

I shift culture. In every organization, there comes a point where culture must be moved to accommodate current needs and to strengthen the whole. I have worked to shift culture in respectful and meaningful ways. As I experienced with my work at three major universities shifting culture is not an easy task. But when approached and communicated well, the change can make an incredible difference.

I shift culture, I embrace culture, and I shift culture. I am CULTURE.

I am CONNECTION.

No one exists unto themselves. We are all connected. We come from familial spaces and communities. Our connection then extends to our work, to our schools, our places of worship, our neighborhoods.  Even from establishing common ground as human beings, we must use connections in how we communicate to one another. My life's work has been to bring people, organizations, and communities together around common goals. My work with thousands of students, and even with my passion as a musician and artist, I am mindful to always find the point of connection with those I interact with.

I know that I am not alone. I am never alone. I am always connected, considering those around me with every move I make. I am because we are. I am CONNECTION.

I am CREATIVITY.

Creativity allows me to think beyond the box and dares me to try new ways of thinking. Creativity lets me approach issues with an open mind. It allows me the space to express myself and help others to express themselves, even within parameters and guidelines. My creativity thrives in conflict. Its soars with time and space. Creativity honors what was, but shows what could and will be. I am CREATIVITY.

No matter where I am, I bring these with me.

I am CULTURE. I am CONNECTION. I am CREATIVITY.

I am JOHN RAWLINS III and I would enjoy the opportunity to connect with you.