I began at some point to understand the whole idea of accountability and responsibility and leadership, and I think that was something that really birthed something in me, where I knew I wanted to be part of a larger equation in our society.

The expectations that others place on us help us form our expectations of ourselves.

My mother is extraordinary; she's a superwoman, like so many other single mothers who are out there.

Potential is universal, opportunity is not.

Kids need to think that you care before they care what you think.

I just want to make sure that public service doesn't have to be an occupation, but it needs to be a way of life.

The importance of high expectations plays a big role.