by Sarad Davenport 

In the heart of Virginia, amidst the rolling hills and tight-knit communities, Gloria Witt’s journey from a rural upbringing to a prominent advocate and leader is a testament to resilience, determination, and a deep-seated commitment to social justice. In a recent conversation with Vinegar Hill Magazine, Gloria shared her story, offering insights into her life, career, and the driving forces behind her advocacy work.

Born and raised in Amherst County, Virginia, Gloria describes herself as a “country girl” who grew up in a family-oriented community. “We lived off the land from a sustainability perspective,” she recalls, highlighting the self-sufficiency of her upbringing. This environment instilled in her a strong sense of community and justice, values that have guided her throughout her life.

Gloria’s early years were marked by her role as an advocate within her family. As the youngest child for seven years, she naturally became the spokesperson for her older siblings. “I was the baby. I was the advocate. And I’ve been the advocate,” she says, reflecting on how this role shaped her future. “I’ve never been afraid to make the ask and to hold my space.”

I feel like I have a voice that can bring people together, and I feel like for District 5, I am that voice in this moment.

Her journey into the professional world began in an unexpected place: the tobacco fields of Connecticut. From the age of 14, Gloria worked as a seasonal migrant worker, a role that was both challenging and rewarding. “You got paid by how fast you worked,” she explains, noting how this performance-based environment suited her competitive nature. It was here that she saved enough money to buy her first car, a bright yellow 1974 Toyota Corolla, which she fondly remembers as her ticket to independence. “I was mobile then,” she recalls with a smile.

Despite the hard work, Gloria knew that the tobacco fields were not her final destination. She set her sights on a career in business, driven by a desire to break free from the limitations of her rural upbringing. After high school, she attended a business school, where she honed her skills in accounting and stenography. Armed with these skills, she targeted Babcock and Wilcox, a company she admired, and began her 32-year career in corporate America.

Gloria’s corporate journey was marked by significant achievements and challenges. She rose through the ranks to become the North American Director of People Development, a role that allowed her to shape leadership strategies and talent management. “It was a rich career,” she notes, emphasizing her love for the job despite eventually retiring and starting her own company, Success Coaching and Facilitation. 

Her commitment to social justice found a home in the NAACP, where she has been involved since she was 14. As a leader in the Amherst County branch, Gloria has been at the forefront of advocating for equity and inclusion. The murder of George Floyd was a pivotal moment for her, galvanizing her efforts to address systemic racism and inequality. “George Floyd was a tipping point,” she says, describing how the event galvanized her and others to take action against systemic injustice. “It opened up the realization for young people,” she emphasizes, highlighting the need for continued advocacy.

In addition to her work with the NAACP, Gloria has been deeply involved in the nonprofit sector, including the Boys and Girls Club and the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities or VCIC. Her efforts focus on creating safe environments for young people and promoting educational and career opportunities. “It’s all about building great futures,” she emphasizes, highlighting the importance of exposing youth to opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.

Gloria’s dedication to health equity is also noteworthy. As a board member of Central Health Systems, she is learning about the challenges of workforce development in healthcare and the importance of accessible healthcare. “There’s a real struggle to keep that workforce up,” she notes, pointing out the need for more doctors and healthcare workers in rural areas.

Her advocacy is driven by a desire to bring people together and find common ground. “Inclusiveness is in the heart of who America is,” she asserts, expressing her belief in the power of collaboration. Her vision for the future is one of growth and opportunity for all, rather than a return to the past. “We cannot go backwards,” she declares, confident that the voters will choose progress over regression.

Gloria Witt’s life and career are a testament to her unwavering commitment to advocacy, leadership, and justice. Her journey from a rural upbringing to a successful corporate career and impactful nonprofit work is a powerful example of the difference one person can make. As she continues to be a voice for change, Gloria remains focused on her mission to help others and create a better future for all. Her story, from the tobacco fields to corporate boardrooms and community activism, is a reminder of the impact one person can have when driven by a passion for justice. As she continues her work, Gloria remains committed to being a voice for those who need it most, ensuring that the values of inclusivity and progress remain at the forefront of her efforts.