statements of character
Hear directly from those I have worked with, been strengthened through conflict with, and co-created with —
"Lathram brings a rare combination of methodical rigor and heart to her work — from curriculum development and communications to facilitation — consistently producing work that is detail-oriented, inclusive, and deeply reflective of the communities being served. Driven by a genuine commitment to building an economy that works for all, Lathram approaches every project with intentionality and care.”
— Rosemarie Henkel-Rieger, Co-Director, Southeast Center for Cooperative Development“Our work with Lathram Berry provided our Global Studies Concentration students with a meaningful lens into Indigenous communities and perspectives. As a facilitator, Lathram led with humility and empathy, modeling for my students how to approach the study of culture with respect and care. Lathram is a thoughtful collaborator, an attentive listener, and a strong leader in this important work.”
— Leigh Roberts, Director of Global Studies, Battle Ground Academy “She (Lathram) has been a thoughtful and committed partner in our cooperative development efforts, bringing a strong grounding in questions of class, power, and equity, paired with a willingness to engage these issues with honesty, humility, and accountability. Lathram has a particular ability to facilitate reflection and dialogue within communities of class privilege, helping translate analysis into responsibility and action. Her contributions have strengthened our work and reflect a clear dedication to advancing economic justice. We trust her integrity and believe her work will make a meaningful contribution to building greater class consciousness and solidarity.”
— Benny Overton, Co-Director, Southeast Center for Cooperative Development“Lathram Berry came into my life when I wasn't really looking for new friends. I was completely at capacity. It was 2020/2021ish. I'd just had a second baby in the middle of a global pandemic and a racial reckoning that left me terrified about raising two Black children in Tennessee. I thought I had absolutely no space for anything other than surviving. But as I sit here in Spring 2026, I can't imagine my life without Lathram. Lathram has been consistent. A witness to so many of my and my community's troubles. She's showed up for me and my children. Showed up for my neighborhood. Has lightened my load. Has reflected my own strength back to me. And has listened deeply (without getting defensive) when I felt she wasn't keeping promises and showing up fully. (Okay, now I'm tearing up...)
Crossing the lines of race, class, age and lived experience to build The Beloved Community is scary work. But it is the work required to build a more just and loving future. I'm grateful for Lathram's ability:
to explore and confront her own class privilege
to connect and support those seeking to chart a similar path
and her ability to learn, document, weave and remember the interconnectedness of our shared historic and present struggles
We need more people willing to do this work. I hope you'll join her. ”
— M. Simone Boyd, Artist, Novelist, and Neighborhood Organizer“Lathram is a person of profound integrity, strength, and resolve. Embodying deep love for earth and community, she navigates complexity with authenticity, grace, and creativity. Anyone who has the opportunity to spend time with Lathram will benefit from her listening, discernment, and healing presence.”
— Hilary Giovale, Author of Becoming a Good Relative