Continuing with our section Women on the Move, we are honored to introduce today’s spotlight, Anthea Marie Pennant – a woman of great faith whose passion and dedication for the community has set an example for those who have the honor to work and walk alongside her outstanding career as a leader and mother. A&P is proud to be walking alongside Pennant and her team at Broward College in how to better the coaching of diverse suppliers in their participation as recipients of large government bids in both capacities, either as prime or subcontractors.
Anthea Pennant is the District Director of Supplier Relations and Diversity at Broward College. With over 20 years in executive leadership positions, she has a distinguished performance history in business development, management, advocacy, and fundraising — always with a focus on strengthening communities. She works closely with various government agencies and large prime contractors to advocate for the removal of systemic impediments in procurement practices on private and government-funded contracts.
Anthea has received numerous awards over the years as recognition for her contributions to the community, including being named by the Florida State Minority Supplier Diversity Council as “Advocate of the Year” in 2019 during their Annual Awards Gala. On top of that, Legacy Magazine recently featured her as one of South Florida’s “50 Most Powerful Black Leaders in Business & Industry” for 2020. We are grateful for having the chance to discuss with Anthea of how she balances her career with her role as a mother; two roles in which she has excelled.
How have you balanced a successful career while raising and caring for your children?
“Prayer and God’s grace has been key to successfully balancing career while raising and caring for my children, Cameron and Taylor. Over the years, I have learned to compartmentalize and prioritized the various aspects of my life. When I am at work, I am fully engaged, and when I am home, I am fully in tuned with my home life. God is the constant center of all I do, and my kids are my top priority gifts from God. The serenity prayer, and Philippians 4:13 have always been an inspiration to keep me going “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
What has been the biggest challenge for you as a mother in your career?
“When I got married and started having children, I did not envision having to raise my children alone, but that became my reality, and I very quickly had to learn how to pivot. Financial care for my children meant working smart and efficiently at the office, and their emotional care meant intentional, thoughtful, and quality family interactions at home. That care and love continues, no matter how old they are.”
How has your career inspired your children?
“They both have great work ethics, and hearts of servitude. They know “to whom much is given, much is required” – Luke 12:48. My career choices have always been aimed at supporting and developing under-served communities, by being a voice of advocacy. My son, Cameron, while earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Florida State University (FSU), worked for six years at the Florida State Capital. He also served as a guest lecturer at FSU and worked part-time tutoring under-served children. My daughter, Taylor, age 20, while a student at Broward College, works for Branches through AmeriCorps, tutoring under-served children.”
What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders regarding career success while being an active, caring mother for their children?
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” Thessalonians 5:11. As they are building their own career, building and nurturing their own families, they should remember to encourage and build up those around them. Always keep God at the center of all that you do and pray.”
When I am at work, I am fully engaged, and when I am home, I am fully in tuned with my home life.
Juan Pablo Benítez | Translation Services Coordinator
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