(Throughout Black History Month, we’re lifting up Black leaders in the life sciences and those who have made a difference in the lives of countless BTI students.)

Donna Carolina serves as BTI’s case manager, a position she has held for 12 years. With a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, plus 30 years of experience in this field, Donna came to BTI via her job at Catholic Charities where she provided case management services for BTI and “Jumpstart.” She was asked to stay on as an independent contractor.

In her role, she works with students to determine their needs and then to ensure that they obtain access to the resources necessary to satisfy these needs. This includes such things as housing and rent issues, utility bill payments, medical and mental health assistance, childcare vouchers, clothing, etc.

Donna says: “Case management in a workforce development program is vital for the removal of barriers to success and bright futures. I love working with people in need of any race or background. Helping the underdog is my passion.”

The biggest challenge that she feels empowered her? “Raising my two children (as a single parent) to become well-rounded adults – both of whom have degrees in their fields of interest.”

A passionate gardener, Donna is also an avid “do-it-yourselfer” and can build anything from other people’s leftover wood.

What she values most about her work at BTI is “seeing the look on a student’s face when they accomplish their goals, and knowing that I helped make a difference in someone’s life.” 

“At BTI, I love that you can come to anyone on staff with a problem and everyone is engaged to help you solve it. The BTI staff is my second family.”