Brenda Turner Grier: A lifelong advocate for others

A native Cincinnatian, Brenda Turner Grier was born and raised in the West End. She lived with her mother and stepfather, along with her sister and two brothers.“As I look back, I have always been thankful to my parents, because regardless of the many challenges and struggles that we faced, they were there to ensure that we continued on a path to pursue our dreams and possibilities.”Brenda attended the neighborhood schools. “Because I had the academic ability and the financial support from the federal government, I was able to go to college.”  Eventually, she met and married Melvin Grier, who has a distinguished career as an award-winning photojournalist. They had been married for 55 years. “I would say that I am the luckiest woman in the world because Melvin has been there and provided me with the love and support I needed, which allowed me to accomplish many of my significant achievements.”Brenda said, “Because of my compassion, empathy and sensitivity for people, I knew from the beginning that I would choose a profession involved with helping others.”  Consequently, her first college degree was a Bachelor’s Degree of Social Work from The University of Cincinnati, College of Community Services. With the...