Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Brandon Baskett.
Hi Dr. Baskett, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am an Aiken, SC native who grew up in a single-parent household. My mom passed away in 2016 but always emphasized how important education was for me. She did not finish her college degree, and she wanted to make sure I had a better standard of living. During my childhood, I had some mentors who inspired me to one day give back to young men in my community. I started Seeds of Wisdom in 2017 with my friend and vice president, Taji Caughman. Seeds of Wisdom is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization that mentors middle and high school boys in Columbia, SC. Our vision is to see today’s boys develop into young men who create a better tomorrow.
All of my life experiences, especially my faith in God, have prepared me to be who I am today. I’m a husband, father, brother, friend, and mentor. I love being an educator, and I look forward to helping change more lives through my work as I grow in my career. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to use my education from USC Aiken (Bachelor’s in Secondary Education English), USC Columbia (Master’s in Educational Administration), and Liberty University (Doctorate in Educational Leadership) to better serve those around me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been challenging to find consistent funding so that we can do more for the young men we mentor. In the next five years, we want to find a permanent meeting location and a van or similar vehicle to transport our mentees. We will take them on college tours in-state, neighboring states, and social events across the city.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve been a public-school educator for ten years. I’ve served as a high school English teacher, assistant varsity boys’ basketball coach, high school assistant principal, and now as the dean for higher education services in Lexington County School District One.
I specialize in helping students get through college and not just to college. I’m known for building relationships with those I serve, and I help others become the best versions of themselves. What sets me apart is that I love working behind the scenes as I help other people shine. When they win, I win. That’s how I’m wired.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Don’t expect immediately start where you want to be in 5-10 years. While it’s certainly difficult at times, you must be grateful throughout your journey. Reflect on where you’ve come from and how much you’ve grown over time. Also, think about how you’re contributing to a better society.
Contact Info:
- Email: president@seedsofwisdom.org
- Website: seedsofwisdom.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seedsofwisdomsc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeedsOfWisdomSC/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrandonBaskett
Image Credits
Shades and Shadows Designs, LLC
