DeVona Wright Cottrell

An Interview with DeVona Wright Cottrell, J.D.,
Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, GMR Marketing

Word/Phrase that best describes your relationship with UR Aware?
‘Alignment’ is a particular word that stands out for me and describes my relationship with UR Aware. Alignment is important because it means a position of agreement or being in the correct or appropriate position. Rhonda’s mentorship and leadership coaching have helped me to understand the importance of aligning my intellect (head) with my innate leadership skills (heart) to clearly live out my intended purpose. Now when I make decisions in conscious awareness of this alignment, my impact is greater. I am also able to self-correct at the moment when I realize the alignment is off. I have harnessed this power and awareness to become a better ME!

How has this experience impacted your work in your community and workplace?
My work in the community and in the workplace is more impactful because I am clear about my purpose and how to align my work in the workplace and in the community so I don’t feel so pulled in different directions. I am able to be more intentional about how my leadership shows up and on how I impact and influence others. I am also an effective communicator and I do not spend time second guessing myself. Intentionality allowed me to stop minimizing myself for the sake of others and I really stepped into the fullness of all that I am!

What is the one thing you learned about yourself?
I learned there were thoughts and beliefs that I allowed to hold me back from who I am. As I unpacked these thoughts and beliefs, I began to let them go given that they were no longer serving me. During this process, I experienced a sense of freedom that allowed me to think clearer and become more intentional. I spoke up more in meetings and advocated more for myself and others as my internal confidence became stronger (internal because I naturally exude external confidence although I did not always feel it internally); The alignment of my head and heart is taking shape and is noticed by others.

Would you recommend Rhonda Ware to someone else?
If you desire coaching (personal and/or professional), leadership development (new leaders), a sanity check and/or leadership empowerment (experienced leaders) – Rhonda Ware and UR Aware is for you! Rhonda is authentic and innovative in her delivery. She connects with you and your vision and helps you drive for positive outcomes. Rhonda is not a push-over, she will challenge you in ways that you have never been challenged while helping you connect the dots. I have participated in several leadership development workshops and programs and I have never had a more enlightening and empowering experience. Rhonda helped to ignite a sense of urgency in me that continues to keep me focused and aligned to be the best me that I can be. Rhonda and UR Aware inspired me to become “Aware” of “My Authentic Self” and the power and passion harnessed within are now alive and active.

What was your biggest takeaway?
The realization of the power and passion of my authentic brand. I’ve always known that I had a unique ability to connect with and influence people and organizations for the better. Rhonda’s mentorship and coaching inspired me to embrace the greatness from within and not dim my light in the name of humility.

—DeVona Wright Cottrell, J.D.
Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, GMR Marketing