A seasoned higher education administrator, speaker, and breast cancer survivor who has dedicated her life to empowering others through education, advocacy, and leadership. With years of experience in academia, she has led initiatives that promote student success, equity, and community engagement, establishing herself as a respected voice in higher education. Her journey took on new meaning following her personal experience with breast cancer. What began as a life-altering diagnosis evolved into a powerful mission: to educate, inspire, and advocate for early detection and proactive health awareness.   Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal resilience, Dr. Petty bridges the worlds of education and health advocacy to reach diverse audiences with impactful, life-saving messages. Dr. Petty is passionate about increasing awareness in underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of routine screenings, early detection, and informed decision-making. Through speaking engagements, workshops, and community outreach, she empowers individuals to take charge of their health while fostering a culture of support and hope.   Her work is grounded in a simple yet powerful belief: knowledge saves lives. By merging her leadership in higher education with her advocacy in breast cancer awareness, Dr. Petty continues to inspire change, uplift communities, and make a lasting difference—one life at a time.