Carliss Maddox is a visionary author, poet, educator, playwright, and entrepreneur whose work uplifts, affirms, and transforms. Originally from Georgia and now rooted in Maryland, Carliss has spent decades shaping hearts and minds through truth-filled storytelling, principled service, and servant leadership. She is the author of three children’s books and the poetry collection R.A.U.W. (Real and Unadulterated Words of Poetry), each offering spiritually resonant reflections that center identity, healing, and hope. As founder of Carli and Company, Carliss curates empowering literature and apparel for children and adults, anchoring every product in affirmation, authenticity, and purpose. Carliss earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration (cum laude) and a Master of Arts in Education, with a focus on Early Childhood Education. She received advanced leadership training in Educational Administration and Supervision from Morgan State University and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Her professional journey is distinguished by her commitment to excellence. She has been recognized as an Outstanding Educator in Gifted and Talented Education and has received a Trailblazer Award. She is also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society. Additionally, she has been nominated twice for Teacher of the Year and has earned numerous other awards that highlight her lasting impact on educational equity and her dedication to the community. Carliss actively volunteers with several Maryland-based organizations and also serves with the National Urban League and the National Council of Urban League Guilds, where she was honored with the 2024 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Excellence in Leadership Award for the Eastern Region. She also contributes to strategic community planning with professional organizations, consistently centering educational equity, early literacy for young children, and the urgent needs of historically underserved communities. Whether through her writings, mentorship, or civic engagement, Carliss continues to inspire generations with her unwavering commitment to truth, restoration, and principled service. She exemplifies leadership founded on spiritual resilience, historical clarity, and the conviction that ordinary citizens can initiate the change they wish to see. "Change begins with a simple act—ACTION! Whether it’s showing up, speaking truth, or lending a hand, every step matters. You have the power to be the change you want to see. Change begins with you." — Carliss Maddox