The Interview; Shirley Hines
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did. 
I am a retired Delta Air Lines professional with more than 20 years of service and a former County Commissioner in Meriwether County. At my core, I am a community engager and connector with a deep passion for civic engagement. Throughout my career and public service, I have focused on building bridges, advocating for opportunity, and helping people and communities thrive.
Best piece of advice you’ve received.
Own your reach—don’t speak on things you don’t fully understand. Let your actions speak louder than your words, and always show your level of commitment through what you do, not just what you say.
If I had it to do over…
I would start working with a financial planner or financial management professional much earlier in life.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Albums:
- The Temptations (any collection)
- Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC’s
- Frankie Beverly & Maze
Books:
- The Bible
- Think and Grow Rich by Dennis Kimbro and Napoleon Hill
- Inspirational books by Pastor Joel Osteen
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.
I have gone skydiving.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?
- Harriet Tubman – for her courage and unwavering determination
- Shirley Chisholm – for her boldness and unapologetic leadership
- Mary McLeod Bethune – for her visionary commitment to education and empowerment
- Eleanor Roosevelt – a true game changer in leadership and advocacy
- Michelle Obama – for her ability to speak truth to power with grace and strength
Name an as-yet unfulfilled dream.
To do missionary work abroad.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be…
A foster parent.
Your go-to food.
Butter pecan ice cream.
Favorite movie(s).
It’s a Wonderful Life, Malcolm X, and The Green Mile.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs — I have a Golden Retriever named Maxx.
Your favorite quote and why.
Albert Einstein said, “Any fool can know something. The point is to understand it.”
I love this quote because true understanding changes how you act. My grandmother used to say, “You do better when you know better.” Understanding builds empathy and compassion, and it should always influence how we treat others.
Name something you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
Taking my mother to Hawaii — it was the first of many mother-daughter trips we shared. I am also incredibly proud to have established the West Central Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce at this season of my life.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out?
Invest in yourself, and make time for the things that truly bring you joy.
