What inspired you to join Dell, and what has your journey been like so far?  

I was inspired to join Dell (through acquisition of ASAP Software) by my mentor and advisor, Dr. Carolyn Tripp, whose guidance helped me understand the true value of authentic networking and its impact on professional growth. Her insights reinforced the importance of building meaningful relationships as a foundation for success. My journey at Dell has been nothing short of transformational. It has challenged me to strive for excellence, embrace continuous learning, and ensure that my work speaks for itself. Every experience has shaped me into a stronger, more purpose-driven professional, and I am excited to keep growing and contributing to Dell’s mission.

How does Dell’s culture empower you to lead initiatives that strengthen communities?  

At Dell, I’m empowered to lead initiatives that create lasting impact, strengthening communities through employee resource groups, and forging meaningful partnerships. Leveraging my experience as a former board member of the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center has been key to building connections that drive positive change.

What motivated you to focus on civic engagement? 

With the challenges to voting rights persisting, including misinformation and barriers to access. Democracy thrives only when citizens are informed, educated, and empowered to participate in the political process. I am motivated by remaining active and encouraging others to do the same, as I help to ensure that every voice is heard and that our democracy continues to move forward. Engagement is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility that honors the sacrifices of those who fought for these rights.

How do you approach training nonprofits on education initiatives, and why is that important to you? 

I start by conducting a thorough needs assessment of the nonprofit and the community it serves. This helps identify gaps between organizational goals and actual community requirements. From there, I design training that bridges those gaps, ensuring strategies are both mission-driven and community-focused. Understanding the “why” behind both the nonprofit and the community allows me to leverage my expertise effectively. It’s not just about delivering training it’s about driving meaningful results that empower organizations to create lasting educational impact.

What’s one story from your work that really stayed with you? 

One story that has stayed with me came from an indirect leader during my time in the Partner Software organization. He shared a simple but powerful principle: “Celeste, I want progress over perfection.” At that point in my career, I often felt the need to have everything 100% right before speaking on a topic or presenting information. His words and more importantly, his example shifted my perspective. He demonstrated that it’s okay to fail, and that waiting for perfection can slow down progress. That lesson taught me that contributing along the way, even when things aren’t perfect, is a valuable part of achieving team goals. It reinforced that leadership isn’t about flawless execution it’s about fostering momentum, learning, and adaptability.

What advice would you give to others who want to make a difference behind the scenes without seeking recognition? 

Focus on leading with integrity and humility. True servant leadership is about putting others first and striving for positive change without seeking personal recognition. When your motivation comes from doing what is right and moral, your impact will speak for itself. It’s not about self-service it’s about creating the transformation you want to see in the world.

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

One thing people might be surprised to learn about me is that I’m not naturally an extrovert. Every time I step into a room or virtual meeting, I make a deliberate choice to lead with confidence and clarity, even if it’s just by listening. I remind myself of the purpose behind my presence and the impact my voice and presence can have.

If you could have a conversation with any advocate for civic engagement—past or present—who would it be and why?

If I could have a conversation with any advocate for civic engagement—past or present—it would be Dr. Dorothy I. Height, a trailblazing leader and strategist who served as President of the National Council of Negro Women and the 10th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., of which I am an active member. Dr. Height’s lifelong commitment to civil rights, social justice, and civic participation makes her an ideal figure to learn from in today’s climate of misinformation and voter apathy.

Quick-fire round:

• Coffee or tea? Tea
• Favorite way to unwind? Reading my kindle
• One word to describe Dell? Transformational
• Dream vacation spot? The Oyster Box (Umhlanga) in South Africa

To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.