"Extraordinary Mothers in Business and Service"

"Honoring

Dr. Christi Griffin"

"

There are moments when a woman’s personal reflection becomes a message for us all. Today we share the words of an extraordinary mother, leader, and visionary, Dr. Christi Griffin, whose life and work continue to impact communities in powerful and lasting ways.

In Her Own Words She Pens…

Last night I realized that I am starting over again, and this time it is not just one venture, it is two. My best friend and I graduated from Saint Louis University on the same day, she from the School of Nursing and me from the Law School. Our third best friend had already walked that same stage a few years before from medical school.

As we stepped into the real world, things moved slowly. My nursing friend became my first client, and that was for free. She had worked at the VA as a student and had been promised a full time job, but weeks after graduation she was still waiting. A few days after I sent a carefully worded letter, she was hired. Failure can be a lesson, but early success became a strong foundation.

As we continued to find our way, our doctor friend poured into us with scripture. When I expressed frustration about the slow growth of my practice, she responded with five simple words. Do not despise small beginnings. Zechariah 4:10. And she was right.

Twenty-three years later, I closed my practice as the second largest bankruptcy practice in the state, and the largest led by a woman, a solo practitioner, and an African American.  I never planned to become an artist or to turn it into a business, but it became one. Three years later, it continues to help sustain my nonprofit. Success rarely comes overnight. It takes time, perseverance, and faith. Too many give up too soon.

I am still building. Still growing. Still trusting.

Do not despise small beginnings.

Hang in there. Yours is coming.

Sparkman Honors Her Impact

Dr. Christi Griffin received her Juris Doctorate from Saint Louis University School of Law and immediately opened her private law practice as a ministry. Over twenty three years, she built one of the largest consumer bankruptcy law firms in the State of Missouri, becoming the largest led by a woman, a solo practitioner, and an African American. When confronted with the realities of a broken legal system, she chose courage over comfort. She exposed misconduct and transformed her experience into purpose by founding The Ethics Project.

Through this work, she has educated communities, advocated for justice, and created spaces for healing and dialogue. Her collaborations with leaders such as Ilyasah Shabazz, Lynne M. Jackson, Victor Woods, and Andrew Young reflect the reach and depth of her work.

She is a mother whose influence extends far beyond her own household. Through her leadership, her courage, and her unwavering commitment to truth, she continues to impact families, systems, and communities. Her life is a reflection of what it means to build, to serve, and to lead with purpose.

Happy Mothers Day!