This is an oral history interview of Carol Thompson Cole. She discusses what her membership in the Asbury United Methodist Church means for her. With the encouragement of her parents, she decides to attend Smith College. She reflects on what it was like to be a young African American woman of faith at Smith in the 1960s. Thompson Cole trailblazer new places for African American women in D.C. government, shortly after the city was granted home rule. Thompson Cole would serve 12 years for Washington, D.C. Mayor Marion Barry. She talks about gentrification and the long-lasting impact of the 1968 riots on Washington, D.C.. Her time in D.C. government was followed by time as a lobbyist, consultant and member of the Clinton administration. Her current leadership role at Venture Philanthropy Partners has given her a chance to reflect on regional approaches to scaling models that work for kids.