Celebrate diversity month: Shifting the conversation with Tracy Goyne

I was raised in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina by my mom and stepfather, who were affectionately referred to as “Baba” and “Papa” by myself, my older siblings and our community. Baba, a highly respected clinical social worker, immersed herself in the community, working with people who lived with mental health disorders and advocating for underrepresented groups. Papa’s world travels as a Major of the U.S. Army and three-time war veteran (WWII, Korean and Vietnam) taught him to appreciate, respect and honor people from diverse cultures, faiths and backgrounds.

Baba and Papa built our home on the foundation of our faith and the commandment to “love your neighbor” – not just through words, but actions.

The dinner table in our home was a special place, often occupied by a wide range of people who needed a place to rest, eat or just simply belong. Through the years, I met and learned from a single mother who had to flee during the night with her two daughters, a blind man who excelled at the university but was not accepted in the workforce, a homeless veteran whose military job skills were not considered transferable into civilian jobs and many more.

On and on the stories and relationships flowed through our home, often told over meals at the dinner table. From a young age, Baba and Papa taught me the importance of seeing the humanity in all individuals despite their diverse cultures, backgrounds or perspectives.

I am grateful for the valuable lessons learned from all who sat at our dinner table. And, for my parents who were extraordinary role models of integrity, hard work and authentic love for others. It is amazing to realize how these childhood lessons have influenced my career.

Though my resume covers a wide variety of jobs and industries, there is one common theme – people. Fueled by leading, coaching and advocating for others, I strive to foster an inclusive environment so that all can be their true selves and feel a sense of belonging at our dinner table, in the workplace and beyond.

Sabre is shifting the conversation with stories from passionate and bold inclusion group members. At the heart of our inclusion & engagement efforts, our eight inclusion groups, and counting, aim to amplify the voices of our team members and create a sense of belonging for all. Together, we celebrate diversity, applaud individuality and embrace unique perspectives to empower our global team members to bring their true selves to work every day. Learn more about our inclusion & engagement mission.