From Single Mom to CEO: Tami Hicks' Journey of Faith, Grit, and Divine Nudges

Tami Hicks' journey from a single mother of a child with special needs to the CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Elkhart County is a testament to the power of faith, grit, and heeding divine nudges. Her story is not just one of professional ascent, but a profound narrative of personal transformation, guided by an unwavering belief in a greater purpose.

From a young age, Tami's parents instilled in her Christian values while encouraging her to forge her own relationship with God. This foundation allowed her to explore various denominations and develop a deep love for theology and history. This unique upbringing fostered an open-mindedness that would later serve as a compass in her life's most pivotal moments.

Embracing Motherhood and Faith

One such moment arrived when Tami was 19 and pregnant. Faced with the option of genetic testing that could reveal potential complications, a divine intervention, in the form of a dismissive conversation with a doctor, led her to decline the test. This decision, she now believes, spared her unnecessary worry and allowed her to embrace her son's journey with a clear mind. Her son, Ethan, was later diagnosed with a genetic disorder, but Tami's earlier decision meant she approached it with strength and faith, rather than pre-emptive anxiety. This experience solidified her conviction that God's timing and protection are always at play.

Years later, while serving as a highly successful principal at Goshen Elementary School, Tami found herself at a crossroads. Despite her achievements, a quiet questioning began to surface about her long-term career path. It was during a drive, as she vocalized her thoughts about 'what's next,' that her phone rang. On the other end was Kevin Deary, the retiring CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Elkhart County. This unexpected call, at that precise moment, was an undeniable 'God moment' – a clear sign that a new chapter was unfolding.

From Educator to CEO: Leading with Grit

The transition from education to leading a major non-profit was significant, but Tami embraced the challenge with her characteristic 'all-in' approach. She quickly discovered the immense generosity of the Elkhart County community and the remarkable spirit of collaboration among local non-profits. Unlike many regions where organizations compete for donors, Elkhart County's non-profits work in concert, understanding that their collective impact strengthens the entire community. Tami emphasizes that this collaborative spirit is a 'beautiful thing' and a key to their shared success.

Leadership, for Tami, is not without its trials. She highlights the difficulty of having tough conversations with people she cares about, and the anxiety that accompanies making high-stakes decisions. Her approach to these challenges is deeply rooted in her faith: giving it to God through prayer and meditation. She views prayer as a vital outlet for processing anxieties and seeking divine guidance. Tami also credits her strong network of mentors, coaches, and board members, who provide invaluable support and diverse perspectives. She recognizes that true leadership means acknowledging what you don't know and being open to learning from others.

Championing Women and Inspiring the Next Generation

As a female CEO in a historically male-dominated environment, Tami has faced unique challenges. She recounts instances where her voice was overlooked in meetings, leading her to strategically bring other women into the fold and learn from their approaches. She also champions the importance of women proudly displaying their academic achievements, like her own PhD, as a powerful message to aspiring girls and boys that anything is possible, regardless of background or gender. Her message to young people is clear: have grit, take initiative, and don't let anything stand in your way.

Tami Hicks' story is a powerful narrative of a leader who has navigated life's complexities with grace, determination, and an unwavering faith. Her journey from a single mom to a transformative CEO is a testament to the profound impact of listening to divine nudges, embracing challenges, and committing wholeheartedly to a purpose greater than oneself. She embodies the Kingdom Factor principles of leadership, personal growth, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others, particularly the children and families of Elkhart County.