It isn’t easy being a preacher’s kid. The church and the community often hold the children of pastors to a higher standard, expecting the best behavior from them at all times. In fact, the idea of the “preacher’s kid” is considered a “stock character” in some fiction. There are those who even expect the young person to be more prone to rebellion.
At the same time, growing up in a home where one’s dad is a pastor can also be very rewarding.
Dr. Lakicha Jernigan wrote her latest book Relentlessly Evolving as a memoir of her youth growing up the daughter of Rev. Melvin and Mrs. Barbara Montgomery. She would take the strong foundation provided by her parents and utilize it to not only pursue a Ph.D., but to also become a Minister of Music. She also works as a motivational speaker. Prior to her current position, she worked in the mental health field. Currently, Dr. Jernigan, affectionately known as Dr. J, is the CEO of her own company. She says her chief objective is to “inspire whoever will listen before she expires.”
The foundation that her parents laid in Dr. Jernigan are built on biblical principles. Her motto is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phillipians 4:13).
Dr. Jernigan is a graduate of Mississippi State, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Educational Psychology. She furthered her education by earning a Master of Science and an Educational Specialist degree in Special Education. She completed her education by earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Community College Leadership.
She has also authored “The Effects of Social Media Use on Community College Students,” published in 2016.
Dr. J is employed with the Louisville Municipal School District as the district's Behavioral Specialist. She is the current Minister of Music and Intercessory Team at Mount Bell M.B. Church in Louisville.
Lakicha will present her memoir at the Winston County Library on Saturday, September 23, at 11:30 AM. The public is invited to come meet Dr. Jernigan and hear her presentation on Relentlessly Evolving.
