Shukita Massey is a Class of 2001 graduate of An Achievable Dream. After graduating from AAD, Shukita attended Mary Baldwin College and the College of William and Mary School of Law. Since graduating from law school, she has dedicated her career to public service in the Hampton Roads area, as a law clerk with the Newport News Circuit Court and as a prosecuting attorney, which she has been doing for nearly 12 years. In her current role as Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Hampton, she prosecutes misdemeanor and felony offenses involving violent crimes against persons and property crimes. “I love my career because it allows me to meet people from all walks of life and assist them through challenging circumstances,” Shukita shared. Although Shukita enjoys the courtroom, she loves creating memories with her family as well. “I especially enjoy working with children. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and binge-watching my favorite television shows.”
When reflecting on her experience at An Achievable Dream, she understands how fortunate she was to be a part of a program that invested in her future. She believes that the recitation of the banners was one of her most impactful experiences as she navigated the program. “As a young student, I did not realize the power of affirmations and what it meant to manifest my dreams through the power of my words. As an adult, I understand that reciting the banners on a daily basis increased my confidence and helped me to concentrate on achieving my goals.” Shukita is thankful to An Achievable Dream for introducing the banners to her at a young age.
One of her favorite quotes is, “Self-belief and hard work will always earn you success.” When asked what values An Achievable Dream instilled in her that have carried her into adulthood, Shukita stated, “From the very beginning, An Achievable Dream has always instilled in its students to work hard and believe in yourself, which are principles that I have carried into adulthood.”
She recently wrote a children’s book, Oh, Parker! and visited each of our localities to read her book to our Dreamers. We have two of her books in each of our school libraries. “One of my goals in writing Oh, Parker! was to show that the possibilities for growth and renewal are endless! I want young ladies to know that they do not have to be confined or restricted to one thing. Whatever you set your mind to do is achievable if you only believe!”
Shukita encourages the regional community to recognize AAD’s impact on its students and graduates. “As a former student of AAD, I can truly say that every director, administrator, teacher, and staff person is passionate about the program’s purpose and mission. I wish that the ideals and values that AAD instills in its students could be utilized and taught in all schools across the nation; that’s how amazing I believe AAD is! AAD prepares students and graduates for the real world and teaches them how to be productive citizens in society. I am super proud to be an alumna!”