Carolin Sinkfield wasted no time in getting involved in Impact San Antonio after joining last spring. Her work with us is just part of what she does in our community. Here is what she has to say about our organization and why she decided to become a part of it.
How did you first hear about Impact San Antonio?
I first learned about Impact SA in November 2022 from a business acquaintance, Robert Bligh, whose daughter is in the organization. It sparked me to consider becoming a member. He briefly explained that only women could join and suggested that I explore the website. As I explored the Impact SA website, I discovered that the mission and purpose were in line with my values as a servant leader. As a result, I decided to give it a chance, and Mr. Bligh offered to sponsor my membership for this year as an introduction.
What impresses and inspires you about Impact SA?
I am inspired by the large number of women who support such a philanthropic cause. It is obvious that lots of organization and attention to detail have gone into planning each phase of the program. I like the thoughtfulness that is given to selecting those nonprofit organizations that truly need the most support to help them make a difference in the San Antonio community in five significant areas.
What volunteer roles have you taken on in the organization?
Since I have participated in the grant process (writing and monitoring) in the past with other organizations, I decided to volunteer on the Education Grant Review Committee. I wanted to learn more about this side of the grant process.
Tell us about you and your husband’s involvement in the Tuskegee Airmen organization.
The San Antonio Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc. is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and to motivate youth toward excellence in education. My husband was recruited by the local chapter president in 2000 at the TAI national convention, which was held in San Antonio. I was recruited to volunteer with the scholarship program. For the past 10 years, I have been the Education Assistance Awards Chair for the local chapter and organized banquets and receptions to recognize the recipients each year. In addition, I wrote and introduced the STEM-A program in 2018 — science, technology, engineering and math with an emphasis on aviation. This program consists of exposing students in grades 3-8 to hands-on experiences through presentations by professionals and field trips. That way they can learn about the career options in the STEM and aviation fields.
What did you do for a living?
I am a retired educator, K-12 and higher education. My undergraduate degree is in special education/elementary education and English. Graduate degrees consist of a master’s in education in the field of visual impairment and blindness and a Ph.D. in organizational leadership specializing in adult education. I was a classroom teacher in K-12 for 15 years (Edgewood ISD; Northside ISD; Houston County ISD in Warner Robins, Georgia; and Randolph ISD); a vision consultant for 13 years with the Military ISD Cooperative in San Antonio serving Randolph, Ft. Sam Houston and Lackland School Districts; and a faculty member at Texas A&M-San Antonio and part time at Wayland Baptist University for nine years.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
My husband and I have three sons who have graduated from college and are enjoying their career choices. We also have four grandsons and two granddaughters. I have traveled to Tanzania twice as a volunteer to conduct education workshops and participate in guiding women in their efforts to create businesses.
