-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Tanisha Nash?
I would describe myself as a total extrovert who never meets a stranger. I’m loving and compassionate, but assertive and outspoken too. I have a great sense of humor, deeply value family and meaningful relationships and strive to lead with intention and purpose in everything.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised right here in Roanoke. I truly had a great childhood! My mom wasn’t just a wonderful mother – she was also my best friend. My dad is my other best friend. He has always been very loving and supportive. My grandparents, aunts and uncles all played a role in raising me. I’m so grateful for that village. I’m blessed to have had – and still have – strong, healthy relationships with both my mom’s and dad’s sides of the family.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I began my undergraduate journey at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and later attended Virginia Union University. I had my first child, Phazhon, at 20, a blessing that required me to make some important life adjustments. I returned home to Roanoke and completed both my undergraduate and graduate degrees at Radford University.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
Professionally, I serve as the Supervisor of Student Support Services for Minnick Schools, a private day school that provides educational services to students with behavioral challenges. I’m also a part-time Adjunct Professor at Radford University, where I’ve had the opportunity to teach various social work courses.
How important is family to you?
Family means everything to me – especially my two phenomenal children. I often say I’m good at many things, but being a mother is what I do best. It’s the role that grounds me and brings me the most joy. Both of my grandmothers showed me early on the importance of family and what it truly means to take care of one another. At the end of the day, we are all we have. Family isn’t always just biological. I’m blessed to have friendships that span more than 30 years with incredible people who are just as much my family as those I’m related to by blood.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Lalah Hathaway, Jill Scott, Jay-Z, Nas, Wale, D’Angelo, Tasha Cobbs, Fantasia and Mary J. Blige. On it would also be all things Go-Go, some old school hip hop and R&B classics.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
Walking to 8th Street Grill with my cousins and buying a bag full of goodies for two dollars and spending time at the Henry Street Festival back when it was actually on Henry Street immediately come to mind. Football games at Victory Stadium were always a good time, as was playing outside in the summer.
What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy DIY projects and decorating, along with traveling and relaxing by binge-watching a good series.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
I have been blessed with several incredible people in my life. The younger individuals I’ve had the privilege to mentor have truly been heaven-sent. Some of my mentors include: my pastor, the Rev. L.A. Lewis; our First Lady, Annette Lewis; and Mrs. Gloria Manns. They have all been great people to look up to. Their lives are ocular examples of what it means to be a genuinely good person.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Life will unfold in chapters, so be patient with yourself. Protect your peace, even when it disappoints people. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and most importantly, remember to trust God in all things!
