Vivian Parham '03

Q. Please give a brief overview of your trajectory after GPS and let us know what you are doing now.
A. After Graduating from GPS, I attended Spelman College, a women's Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Atlanta, Georgia. I completed my B.S. in Biology at UT Chattanooga, I studied nursing in New York and earned my M.S. in Nursing from NYU. I began my Dermatology NP career in Manhattan and after three years returned to Chattanooga and founded Grace Dermatology & Aesthetics where I practice.

Q. Is your current role something you always knew you were interested in? If not, how did that interest develop?
A. I have always desired to work in healthcare, and dermatology stole my heart. I remember as a child making 'skincare' concoctions, picking calluses, and popping pimples.

Q. Why are you passionate about what you do?
A. I am passionate about self-love among Black women. Treating Skin of Color every day gives me an opportunity to provide solutions for melanated skin in a field failing to diversify.

Q. What were you involved in while at GPS?
A. I was a member of the Black Student Organization, Umoja, Swahili for "unity." I was seventh grade class president, cheered, ran track, and danced with the NON-Terpsichord club! Senior year I proudly represented the Class of 2003 as May Queen.

Q. What was your favorite tradition at GPS? Why?
A. Cat-Rat! As an introverted- extrovertand candy in my locker was the best. My senior year I was privileged to pass it on.

Q. If you could offer one piece of advice to current GPS students, what would it be?
A. GPS is a safe place to begin discovering who you are. Embrace the opportunity to make mistakes, be goofy, try and fail things. Getting involved is the best way to discover what you love ... even if you're terrible at it! I was cast as Toto in The Wizard of Oz and snuck in an impromptu line!

Q. Do you stay in touch with your classmates? What impact have they had on your life?
A. Not as much as I would like, but some of my best memories include them. I see how we have grown, taken different paths, and yet preserved so much of who we were for the better. This reminds me that it is possible to hold on to who I am even in the mist of a storm.

Q. Can you point to anything that GPS did to prepare you for your future?
A. Simply providing a place for me to think independently and feel confident began the foundation for me to be a self-advocate.

Q. Are there any experiences or memories from your time at GPS that really stick out?
A. I was a part of a group of students chosen to build a clay replica of the Olan Mills Mansion. I still have my absolutely ridiculous clay "home" from art class that led to my consideration for the project. It is on display in my parent's home. This was a honor and beautiful experience.

Q. What is your proudest accomplishment thus far?
A. Choosing me! I found myself working in an environment where I was not valued, was not treated equally, and on the receiving end of micro-aggressions. My physical and mental health were suffering and I had to decide whether to stay one more year or quit. I chose to leave and protect my peace.

Q. Why is Black History Month important to you and why is it important that we acknowledge and honor the month here at GPS?
A. Black History is American History. Embracing this element of our nation's history as a country and at GPS illuminates critical contributions to our nation's foundation that previously were misrepresented, overlooked, or deleted. BHM is not about elevating one culture or race above others or provoking feelings of shame and embarrassment. Black History Month honors the resilient before us and highlights the importance of embracing diversity. Collectively we thrive as a nation. GPS was founded to elevate and educate a marginalized group; women. I am proud that my alma mater carries on the traditions of inclusivity and equity which are our foundation. GPS is an example in our community that there will always be strength in unity.

Read more GPS alumnae profiles here.