Paula Briggs

Dr. Paula Clark Briggs has been a cornerstone of Heart & Soul since its founding in 1994, offering invaluable guidance and support to the family business. As a dedicated board member, Dr. Briggs brings her vast expertise in media, education, and organizational development to further the mission of Heart & Soul, LLC and Heart & Soul CDC. Her thoughtful contributions have helped shape the organization’s operational framework, ensuring its continued growth and success.

Dr. Briggs’ professional career spans decades, marked by her passion for education and her dedication to fostering talent.  She is a retired Associate Professor of Mass Communications and Journalism at Norfolk State University, where she inspired generations of students.  With a Ph.D. from Howard University, an M.A. from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a B.A. from Hampton University, Dr. Briggs has a rich academic background that complements her practical experience in media production.  Her early work as a news videographer for KOMU-TV in Columbia, MO, WRAL-TV in Raleigh, NC, and WTKR-TV in Norfolk, VA, along with her radio production work for NPR affiliate KBIA-FM and WRAP-FM, reflects her diverse skills and commitment to impactful storytelling.

In addition to her academic and professional accomplishments, Dr. Briggs has played a vital role in the development and sustainability of Heart & Soul’s programs.  Her keen insight into operations has strengthened the organization’s ability to serve the community, while her deep-seated love for education and advocacy aligns perfectly with Heart & Soul’s vision. Whether through her mentorship of students or her leadership at Heart & Soul, Dr. Briggs’ dedication to uplifting others is central to everything she does.

Above all, Dr. Briggs is motivated by her love for her family, her faith, and her community.  She is married to Abraham and is the proud mother of two children, Cameron and Lexington.  An active member of her faith as a Jehovah’s Witness, Dr. Briggs’ values of compassion, integrity, and service resonate throughout her life’s work, making her an indispensable part of Heart & Soul’s legacy.