Posted: October 11, 2011

Renyatta L. Banks, 38

in transition

At work

I am in transition to a new job. I worked as executive director of the YWCA Virginia Peninsula from December 2009 until this year. Previously I was a mortgage consultant at Wachovia Mortgage in Newport News and CFIC Home Mortgage in Virginia Beach. I also worked as project director of community outreach for Norfolk State University and as a program director for Eastern Virginia Medical School. Before moving to Hampton Roads, I was the program director of the Southeastern Michigan HIV/AIDS Council in Detroit.

Home and family

Suffolk; husband Jason A. Banks, children JaNece, Jason, Phoenix and Olivia.

Volunteer activities

I have always been active with my children's activities including cheerleading and soccer. I love that my children know that I am supportive in whatever they do. I also take pride in volunteering with my sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. I also volunteer with the National Organization of University Women and with those affected by HIV.

Proudest work accomplishment

I am grateful for having both the time and patience to learn and master the art of grant-writing and fundraising. I have taken that experience and use it to help nonprofits and faith-based organizations reach their financial goals.

Balancing time

Meditation and understanding what is most important in my life, my family. Our family goal is to have dinner together each night.

Downtime

Reading the latest novels, experimenting with different recipes and working at YMCA at least three times a week. I love Zumba!

Professional goal in five years

The future is limitless so we will have to wait to see.

Biggest success factor

Support from my loving family and developing and implementing personal goals and plans to be successful.

The one thing I'd change about Hampton Roads

I love the growth of Hampton Roads! I am excited to see what else Hampton Roads has in store for us. I do hope that pIan includes incorporating a live jazz club into its culture.

Dream dinner party guest list

Michael Jordan, Michelle Obama, Dorothy Dandridge (actress) and Heidi Klum

What gets under your skin?

Narcissistic people.