Dionne M. Fleshman

Her job: Director, Human Resources and Community Affairs, DESA Inc.

Age: 36

Family: husband, Tyrell Sr.; children, Tyrell Jr., 6; and Joseph, 5

Education: Bachelor’s degree, marketing, S.C. State University; master’s degree, business administration, Mercer University

Community involvement: den leader, Boy Scouts Pack 101 Wolf Den; member, Rotary International; Toastmasters International; Forest Lake Elementary School Improvement Council; Forest Lake Elementary School Foundation; Education Policy Fellow, 2008-2009

From her nomination: “Mrs. Fleshman is not only a tremendous asset to her employer and a devoted community member but a mother of two as well. One of her sons was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Ever since, Mrs. Fleshman has made it a part of her life to help not only her son, but others with autism . . . She is an eager advocate against this disorder.” — Darrin Thomas, Thomas/McCants Media Inc.

How do you define success? “Success is becoming content with your life, finding peace within your soul and having love and hope in your heart.”

Tell us a little bit about your work with autism and its importance to you. “My youngest son, Joseph, was diagnosed with autism in August of 2008. That diagnosis changed the way I envisioned my son’s life. I could no longer look at his future plans — college, marriage, etc. — but instead, I have to look closer at his daily challenges. Currently, my work with autism involves research. By better educating myself on this disorder, I can better serve my son and others like him within our community. Research provides ideas on the best ways to face challenges not only for him, but for me, too.”

A lot of your work involves children. Why is that so important to you? “There is nothing more important to me than children who are healthy, emotionally stable and physically strong. … That why I make it my responsibility to involve myself in the lives of children through school involvement, Boy Scout leadership, assistance with the children’s church ministry and other youth programs.”

What advice have you received from mentors? “Always keep your future goals in mind. The choices we make today dictate the choices that we can make tomorrow. No one rises to low expectations.”

What’s ahead for you? “I am currently focused on spending time with my family and helping Joseph, my son with autism, face his challenges. I will continue to engage myself in community events and civic organizations. Eventually, I would like to pursue my doctoral studies.”