“I am the ShePower Global Ambassador. I empower women and girls to lead unapologetically. I am also a wife and I am a mom to two elite athletes whose sport is basketball,” said Dr. Waller. “Essentially, I have four full-time jobs at this point, in addition to family commitments.”

Most recently, Dr. Waller has committed herself to a new school concept. She is the founder and lead petitioner of Willie J. Frink College Prep, a public charter school planned for the 2024-2025 school year in the Panama-Buena Vista School District. Its tagline is “College, Civic and Entrepreneur Preparatory School” and the institution is named for Dr. Waller’s father. As a tuition-free option, the school will be open for students in K through eighth grade. Students will apply but all are welcome, with a goal of 150 students the first year and a capacity of 500 students by its fifth year. A lottery will determine acceptance in the event of high demand. A key vote on Aug. 8 will determine the school’s future.  Find details at https://www.frinkschool.com/.

“The pandemic underscored disparities. I joined a mom squad with the hope of finding other educational options, which turned into opening of a charter school in 2024. Our eyes were opened and all of us experienced something different at that time. I had to homeschool my son for two years,” explained Dr. Waller. “Our mom squad started with six of us; there are three of us now and I ended up leading it, which was not my intention. We have been working on it for more than four years. There are also a lot of community supporters and volunteers. Together, we have raised more than $1 million.”

Dr. Waller continues to be involved in the daily operations of ShePower Leadership Academy as well, a nonprofit centered on mentorship and personal development for girls. She founded ShePower in 2015; more than 800 female students have benefitted from its life lessons.

“We have been able to touch a lot of girls’ lives and create a safe space. Young women should get comfortable in power early and find a passion early. People can't say anything because you know who you are,” said Dr. Waller. “What we offer is important to building a strong young woman but also a strong leader. ShePower recently received a half a million dollar entrepreneurial allocation that has allowed us to be more intentional and robust. We are now in Lamont schools to further our reach and support local girls.”

Currently, ShePower meets twice a month, a schedule influenced by the pandemic. In September, however, meetings will be every week. At each session, participants work through a speaker and an activity. Social meet-ups, like movies and swim parties, are also available as organized events for members.

Find information at https://www.shepoweracademy.org/academy, including costs; scholarships are also available on a limited basis thanks to the generosity of donors.

“I feel called to nurture, love and care for children. My role is to create these safe spaces in our community through education. A lot of times people are not aware of what education means, which is being foundational to your life and what that may be for you,” said Dr. Waller, whose honorary doctorate is in religious leadership. After tragically losing her niece, she decided to start ShePower to help meet fundamental identity and personal development needs.

“I realized girls need more than just their families,” said Dr. Waller. “After her loss, I got the nerve to start ShePower. It is the light I hold when I get tired. Even when I work with my staff, I tell them ‘You cannot have a bad day in the presence of a young woman because what you say or do with

a young person can alter their lives forever.

You trade off with someone instead.’ Everything we do here impacts a young lady’s life. So many lives have been impacted and shifted through this work. I take that so seriously, as it is what God has sent me to do.”

Q. What would you like to share about your family?

A.  I am married to my husband, Doc. We are the parents of Kadar, 22, and Bentley, 18. I am one of 13 siblings, 10 girls and three boys, same parents.

"Family is everything."

Q. We often talk with mothers in phases of life that can seem lonely or isolating, especially as they raise young children. What advice do you have for respite and renewal for women in that phase of life?

A. Do what you love, first of all. Whatever you do, create a culture of family. You should have your staff and family around you so you feel nurtured. Absolutely and unapologetically put yourself first. Book spa days where someone takes care of you. Sit on the beach with no agenda.

The world will continue. Have a safe space where you can go. Make it a non-judgemental trusting space. When you are exhausted, take your laptop and work from bed so at least your body is being restored while you are working. Know that no one is great alone. What I do is in collaboration with others. Along the way, I have earned more than 200 awards. I have been in a lot of spaces. I feel honored and blessed to be trusted to serve.

Q. What should families in the Kern County area know more about in their community?

A. I love the Bakersfield restaurant Horse in the Alley. That food makes you happy. The couple who own it cook food to perfection. I have never not gone there and been happy. That is a secret gem here in Kern County. It is a celebration restaurant perfect for special occasions.

Also, I would recommend The Butcher Shop. They offer some of the best cuts of meat you could ever buy and support local chefs by featuring their seasonings and products.

Q. Do you have any hidden talents?

A. Food photography! I print photos and give them to people. There are some amazing cooks in my family and in our community.

Q. What is your parenting PSA?

A. Create a safe, patient, loving space for your child.

It is so important children feel like they could come to you with absolutely anything in life.

If your standards are out of control, that will further cause problems. Move at their pace.