January 13, 2022
Name: Ryquaisa Humphrey
High School Attended: Western Harnett High School
Home County: Harnett
College(s) Attended/ Years Attended: UNC Greensboro (2015-2019); (Master’s) N.C. State (2019-2021)
Major(s): Human Development and Family Studies; Master of Social Work
Minor: African American Studies
County Now Living In: Harnett County
Employer: Morse Clinic of Dunn
Title: Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist
Years Working for Current Employer: 1 year
What does rural mean?
Rural is a sense of community and togetherness. I used to think rural meant small town, but I now know it means a sense of community and pride.
What were some of your major accomplishments during college?
My major accomplishment is graduating from graduate school with a 3.8 grade point average (GPA), while working, having an internship, and being a mom.
What would you tell someone interested in applying for the Golden LEAF Scholarship about being a recipient?
I would tell someone interested in applying for the Golden LEAF Scholarship to do it! The Golden LEAF Foundation has helped me to understand the importance of staying in a rural community to provide the services that are needed.
What helped you decide to live/ work in a rural area?
While in the Golden LEAF Scholars Leadership Program, I was able to realize the importance of working in a rural community.
What kind of leadership roles are you serving in currently?
I’m currently a licensed clinical addiction specialist at an opioid treatment program. Also, I’m pursuing a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license.
What is your hope for rural North Carolina?
I hope that more people will recognize the importance of working and living in a rural community.
What did you learn during your experience?
I was able to experience a sense of community during the leadership program and workshops that helped me learn my leadership style.
What internship experiences did you have and did it help shape your decision to live and work in a rural community?
I had great internship experiences that helped develop my passion. I realized that being a licensed clinical addiction counselor is imperative, especially in rural communities experiencing an opioid epidemic.