Kristilynn Turney, Ed.D.Keynote Speaker, Salem Speakers Bureau · TEDx Ensley Ave ED 2026 I Dynamic Speaker & Presenter I Author I Transforming Schools Through Strategic Planning, Leadership Development, and School Improvement I Results-Driven Educational Leader | E

Be the First, Change Everything | Dr. Kristilynn Turney

1 Feb 2026 · 1 min

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Dr. Kristilynn Turney tells students that one of them could be the first in their family to graduate high school, go to college, or become a nurse, doctor, teacher, or lawyer. Being first breaks generational cycles and creates ripple effects that transform entire communities.

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I want you to look around. Look around at the students in front of you, behind you, on the side of you. I want you to look around because one of you will be the first at something. You can be the first in your family to graduate from high school, to go on to college, to do great things, start your own business, Become a nurse, a doctor, a teacher, a lawyer. There is impact and power to being the first. What we know is that being the first allows you to break generational cycles and curses. And remember, when you become the first, it's not only valuable for you, but it's also valuable for all those around you.