Impact in Focus: 10 Questions with Our New Trustees – Tiffany D. Torain, J.D., LLM

1. What inspired you to join the Bay Area Community Foundation board of trustees?

As an active member of the Great Lakes Bay Region, I really want to learn more about the Bay Area.  Particularly, I want to know the heart and the needs of the community and how the BACF plays a part. 

2. What unique skills or experiences do you bring to the board?

I believe my overall background and experience will serve the board in many ways.  I have practiced law, worked as a benefits plan manager, and served in various community organizations.

3. What are you most excited about as you begin your journey as a trustee?

I am excited to learn more about the community and meet new people. 

4. What do you hope to accomplish while serving your time as a trustee?

I’m hopeful that my skillsets, time, and talent will help to move the needle in the BACF goals.  Working as the Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Relationship Manager in Dow’s Office of Inclusion, I am motivated to support the diversity and belonging efforts of the BACF.  Overall, I hope to make a difference.

5. If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about our community, what would it be?

I would spread some of your wonderful waterfront activities around the Great Lakes Bay Region.

6. What is your favorite book or movie, and why does it resonate with you?

One of my favorite books is Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom.  It shows the impact someone can have in the life of another person by small, kind, and consistent gestures.  You never realize how the power of mentorship/relationship with another person can change the trajectory of their lives. 

7. What is your favorite place to visit in Bay or Arenac counties?

The Bay City Players Theater

8. What hobby or pastime brings you joy outside of your professional life?

Spending time with family and friends on a beach or in my hometown of New Orleans.

9. What is one interesting fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

In high school, I won first place in the state of Louisiana’s Regional French speech competition.  My French teacher was from Romania, and she gave me a love for the French language and culture.  Unfortunately, I do not get to use it as much today and have not yet been to France. 

10. Who is your favorite superhero or fictional character?

My SHEro is my mother, Delores Morris- Becnel.  For most of my life, she was a single mother of two children who understood the importance of education as the great equalizer.  Born in rural Louisiana and raised in inner city New Orleans, she is the only one of her parents’ ten children to receive a college degree.  She is a board-certified clinical social worker who takes care of everyone she meets.  My mother modeled for me the meaning of grace, grit, and the ability to greet everyone with a smile.   She is a Super Woman in every sense of the word.