Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Jamie and Dr. Makeya Jenkins. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Jamie and Makeya met in 2006 and married in 2010.
Jamie was raised in James Cayce Housing Projects/CWA by a single mother. He always aspired to be successful but often struggled during his early years of school. However, that all changed during his 2nd year of 6th grade. After failing 6th grade, something changed. He began to realize that his success would depend on his determination to work hard and never quit. That year he went from being a failing student to an honors student. As a first-generation college student, he earned four college degrees, including his Doctor of Education degree. He has been an educator for 24 years. Currently, he is Executive Principal of East Nashville Magnet High School, leading the school to becoming an IB World School.
Makeya was raised by a single, hardworking mom. At an early age, she developed a passion for track and field, culminating in a track scholarship to Tennessee State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She went on to attend Meharry Medical College where she earned her DDS. She is one of very few black female dentists who owns her own successful dental practice (missiondentaltn.com).
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The most significant struggles for Jamie was navigating the challenges of life in a tough inner-city neighborhood, along with the lack of a consistent positive male role model. Further, developing the self-confidence to believe that he could rise above these challenges and be the first in his family to create a greater existence for his family was paramount.
For Makeya, navigating the application process, entry interviews, and testing required for Dental school admission. Deciding to be an entrepreneur presented a new set of challenges, as she had to learn all of the intricate details of owning and managing a business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Jamie has been an educator for 24 years. His work has always been fueled by the desire to impact people in a positive way. That is his calling. Whether as a teacher or coach or in his current role as Executive Principal, that calling and passion has never changed. As a Certified Personal Trainer and Life Coach that same mission reigns—helping others reach their personal and/or fitness goals, as well as creating balance in their lives.
Makeya is a General Dentist and practice owner in Nashville. She is known for her tenacity and eagerness to learn and grow. Her ability to enhance the lives of her patients by creating beautiful healthy smiles makes her very proud. She enjoys meeting new people and fostering new patient relationships.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Jamie — Taking risks are synonymous with faith. I believe that it takes a level of faith and informed actions to be successful. Embracing the fear that comes along with stepping out on faith makes the difference between success or failure. Being willing to risk taking some losses in pursuit of wins is paramount, understanding that within every loss is a valuable lesson.
Makeya — Risk taking is a vital component of success. I took a major risk when I decided to open my own dental practice, but the rewards have been great. Risk taking requires one to believe. In my case, I had to believe in greater things; believe that God would guide me; and believe that I was capable. Major risks yield the greatest rewards. Of all the perks of being a practice owner, I truly enjoy the flexibility of eating lunch with my boys and spending extra time with my family.
Contact Info:
- Email: dr.jenkins04@gmail.com, smile@missiondentaltn.com
- Website: ROKcoaching.com, missiondentaltn.com
- Instagram: @jamiescottjenkins, @missiondentaltn
