Meet the Honorees: Kristen Reeves

Name someone that has been influential in your life
My father is by far the most influential person in my life.  Growing up he taught me many things.  One was the importance of giving back to your local community and showing me how rewarding and fulfilling these experiences could be.  Another was that the word "Can't" doesn't exist for you to be successful.  That if you work hard and have the determination to reach a goal, you can accomplish anything.

Name a hobby, or your favorite sport.
I stay pretty active.  I play softball and kickball each season.  I also play for the Blondes Vs. Brunette Football game each year benefitting the Alzheimer's Association. 

What does being a Great Futures Gala Honoree mean to you? 
I've never expected recognition for the work that we've done in the community.  We started Louisiana Women in Technology as a passion project almost 5 years ago and still can not believe how much we've accomplished.  It has been such an honor to be selected for the inaugural class of the Great Futures Gala, and has truly been a rewarding experience to meet and learn more about the phenomenal men and women selected this year.

Where did you grow up?
Violet, Louisiana

Why do you feel it's important to give back?
There is so much untapped potential in our community.  Sadly, opportunities that may be available for some, are not available for many others.  Through education, support, and mentoring of our youth, I feel that we are building a better infrastructure for our future community.

What did you want to be growing up?
Exactly what I'm doing now...  When I was in 5th grade I heard something on the radio expressing the need for Information Technology professionals for the future work force. I was curious, started to learn what I could with the limited resources at the time.  Then I took any classes that I could to learn more.  Here I am today,  a Sr. Database Developer for a local software company, Geocent.