By The People’s Paper Staff
Carla Kirkland’s story begins with family, faith, and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
Today, Carla is a businesswoman known for her leadership and service through The Kirkland Group (TKG). TKG is an education consulting firm that supports schools, teachers, and students across Mississippi and beyond.
But, those who know her best will tell you she’s just as devoted to her family as she is to her work. Kirkland is a proud mother to her daughter Alexia and “Gigi” to her grandson Collin Malik.
And at this stage in her life, Kirkland describes herself simply as a woman who enjoys supporting students, teachers, and schools.
“I’m also a mother, a grandmother, and a woman who relies on prayer and has a relationship with Jesus,” Kirkland shared.
Raised to believe she could do anything she set her mind to, Carla credits her parents for inspiring her confidence and drive.
“My parents always made me feel like I could accomplish anything,” she recalls. “They encouraged me to be engaged, to serve, and to grow through involvement.”
Those lessons followed her to Alcorn State University, where she competed and served as Miss Alcorn State University. That experience still shines in her memory.
“When I was crowned Miss Alcorn, I felt beautiful and seen for one of the first times in my life,” Carla recalled. “With my short hair and full lips, I was learning to see myself as enough,” she said.
The title also came with responsibility. “As campus queen, I saw myself as a role model. Our advisor, Ms. Walls, made sure I always carried myself with excellence,” Carla gleamed as she remembered her reign. “She’d inspect me every time I saw her to ensure I was representing Alcorn well.”
Looking back, Carla says Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) gave her more than a degree. HBCUs (Alcorn and Jackson State) gave her identity, confidence, and community.
“HBCUs allow us to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” she explained. “These small, nurturing spaces give you leadership opportunities and the freedom to be versatile.”
That foundation of belonging and leadership would become the guiding thread of her career and her calling.
In Part II, more on how the foundation helped her to become a leader and a builder.
