Meet Kenny Matthews, Kenny has worked for Peoples Gas for nearly 30 years and enjoys helping others and doing his best for his team members. Currently, Kenny works in Lakeland, Florida as a supervisor.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, he is proud of his African American heritage and continues to appreciate continued growth in the areas of education and inclusion, and diversity in the workplace. He now makes his home in Land o’ Lakes, Florida. He loves spending time with his family, especially his wife who is a proud graduate of historic Black university, Albany State University, located in Albany, Georgia.
Get-to-Know more about Kenny in this Q&A spotlight!
Q. Why do you think it’s important to have Inclusion and Diversity programs at work?
There was a time when these programs didn’t exist and there is still a long way to go in general, but there is a need to recognize gaps in the workplace. I appreciate the sharing of ideas and when you have a diverse crowd you learn from different mindsets and ideas that you may not have thought of before. Learning from and understanding people who are not like you is vital to growth and change.
Q: What are your thoughts on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)?
My wife is a proud graduate of an HBCU. I feel that these colleges and universities were and are instrumental in the growth of Black people. These colleges are exceptional, and it is nice to see so many in leadership today that have attended an HBCU.
Q: Is there a local Black-owned business that you like or support and why?
Konan’s Barbeque has the best barbeque and mac and cheese that you ever want to eat. It’s in Carver City, Tampa. It is my go-to place on a Friday for dinner where I can gather with friends and eat delicious food.
Q: Is there a specific black person from history who inspires you?
During Black History Month, Kenny is inspired by people like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou and specifically, his grandfather who was born in the early 1900s and experienced many racial challenges. “I am grateful that he instilled a strong work ethic in me and inspired me to do more, to be more. I think Black History is a huge part of American history, and if we don’t know our history, we tend to repeat it. It’s not just about history but also the strides that are taking place and where we are going.”
Q: How important is Black History education in our workplaces and communities not just during this month but all year long?
When I think of Black History Month, I think of change, history, culture – it is all of those things. Learning from and understanding people who are not like you is vital to growth and change. It’s something that should be recognized all year long and it is nice that during this month there is attention given to educating others and celebrating Black History and connecting it to the present.
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