MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Lakendra Turner

(One of a continuing series of profiles of participants in the MBA Education Path to Diversity (P2D) Scholarship Program, which enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.)

MBA NEWSLINK: Tell us about yourself.

LAKENDRA TURNER: My name is Lakendra Turner: I am a proud Texan born and raised in Dallas. I have been in the mortgage industry for 18 years. I started as a Mortgage Loan Processor, advanced to an Underwriter and currently a Servicing Compliance Officer at Caliber Home Loans. 

My primary responsibility is executing compliance reviews, which includes formal testing and general monitoring activities. Additionally, I contribute to the compliance risk assessment process and maintain a repository of enforcement actions and significant events in the industry for awareness purposes. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Information Systems and a minor in Technical Writing from Tarleton State University.

NEWSLINK: How did you learn about the MBA Path to Diversity Program?

TURNER: I received an email from our VP of Compliance Programs, Kim Reed, who shared a link provided to her from a meet and greet with some representatives from MBA.

NEWSLINK: What inspired you to become more involved? Did a co-worker/supervisor/mentor encourage your participation?

TURNER: Our Chief Compliance Officer, Dennis Irwin, always emphasizes the importance of professional development. Each year, he requires that every team member invests in their careers by enhancing their knowledge as it pertains to their role in the department and the company as a whole.

NEWSLINK: Did you find the application process to be user-friendly?

TURNER: The Path to Diversity application process was very clear and concise which made it easy to apply for the scholarship.

NEWSLINK: How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally?

TURNER: The Path to Diversity has motivated me to challenge myself to seek more, both personally and professionally. Personally, it is driving me to be open to learn more and to challenge the knowledge I have of the mortgage industry. Professionally, it is allowing to become a subject matter expert in certain areas of mortgage, therefore, giving me the opportunity to advance my career.

NEWSLINK: What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?

TURNER: Since receiving the Path to Diversity scholarship, I have encouraged other women in my department to apply and to continue on their path to professional growth.

NEWSLINK: What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?

TURNER: This is a great opportunity to learn and enhance your knowledge of the mortgage industry to drive your career in the direction you want it to go! “The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as long as we live.” – Mortimer Adler

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About the MBA Path to Diversity Scholarship Program

The Path to Diversity Scholarship Program recognizes existing industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers through continuing education. Recipients receive a voucher to cover course registration fees, up to a maximum of $2,000, for popular MBA Education courses and designation programs. This education opportunity enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.

MBA recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable real estate finance industry requires a workforce that is reflective of our society at large.

For more information about the Path to Diversity Scholarship Program, click https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/mba-education/path-to-diversity.