University of Kentucky MBA alumna, Latarika "Tari" Young, recently received the distinguished Coretta Scott King “Spirit of Ivy” Award for the Outstanding Community Leader by the Beta Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a partner of the Pearls of Service Foundation, Inc., at the recent 14th Annual Coretta Scott King “Spirit of Ivy” Awards Luncheon.
The award, named for civil rights activist Coretta Scott King, widow of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., recognizes Lexington area women who have and continue to exemplify the spirit of the ivy, strength and endurance, in facing and overcoming obstacles. Members of Lexington's Beta Gamma Omega graduate chapter are committed to commemorating the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to honor Mrs. Coretta Scott King, a sorority sister, for her courage and determination to continue the work for social change and peace after Dr. King's death. In Mrs. Coretta Scott King's name, seven women were awarded for their contributions to our community.
"It's an honor to receive this recognition," says Tari. "Being a servant leader in Lexington and doing my part to help our community move forward is something that's always been very important to me and my family."
The Community Leader Award exemplifies the "spirit of the ivy" and possesses endurance in facing and overcoming obstacles. The recipient is committed to service to mankind, provides inspiration and a positive influence in impacting the lives of Greater Lexington citizens. By nature, this person is leader in advocating for social justice and equality, and helping others reach their highest potential.
A Lexington, Kentucky native, Tari has continuously served her community. She currently volunteers with the NERD SQUAD, a non-profit organization that targets and exposes underrepresented populations to the STEM fields and careers. She also serves on the Bryan Station High School Alumni Association Board, the Lyric Theatre and the Cultural Arts Center Board of Directors and the North Lexington Family YMCA Board of Managers. Tari also serves as a trustee, an usher and IT administrator at her church, First Baptist Church Bracktown.
Tari is a graduate of the MBA program at the University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business and Economics and received her Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Transylvania University. Tari is currently a Firmware and Software Development Manager at Lexmark International in Lexington, KY where she has worked for the past 17 years. Tari continues to maintain her passions for her community, challenging herself as a leader and cycling.