She has been an ordained Christian minister since 1999, serving in diverse capacities within different local and national organizations
DETROIT, MI, November 27, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Lolita M. Poplar has been included in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
With more than two decades of excellence in education, public service, and transformative leadership, Ms. Poplar has earned distinction as the environmental science teacher for 12th grade students, English language learners, and neurodiverse students at the New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy (NOMMA). Since 2021, she has focused her efforts on teaching environmental science in a uniquely broad, yet personal way. To ignite her students' critical thinking, she reminds them that the environment is more than trees and grass, for the environment is EVERYTHING that surrounds them and impacts their growth and development. With an emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of the subject, her curriculum incorporates current events, both locally and globally, from diverse perspectives. Her approach delves into both the natural world and the practical challenges students encounter in their daily lives, drawing meaningful connections between the two.
Ms. Poplar is also known as "Coach P" at NOMMA since she is the head coach for cross-country and track and field. Her exceptional coaching and leadership have guided their student-athletes to consecutive victories at both regional and state championship levels. Additionally, while serving in diverse education roles at secondary and collegiate institutions, many of Ms. Poplar's students have expressed their deep appreciation for her profound influence on their lives, conveying their gratitude by leaving tokens of their appreciation on her desk and writing heartfelt letters that reflect how she inspired them to become better individuals.
A proud native of Detroit, Michigan, Ms. Poplar served honorably as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy from January 1998 through June 2007. She holds both Medical Service Corps and Manpower designations, achieving duties that include leadership of preventive medicine operations, oversight of personnel training and administration, and management of Navy personnel in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Notably, Ms. Poplar was both the first African American and first female to assume command of the Navy Operational Support Center (Marquette) in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. As a Veteran, she achieved another significant milestone as both the first female and first African American in the 99-year history of the American Legion and Post 1 Memphis to hold the position of post commander by unanimous vote. To honor this achievement, her nine-foot image is displayed in an historic mural at the Marion Hale Community Center (Memphis).
Ms. Poplar continued her career as a health educator and exhibitor for the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, for the Convoy of Hope, and for various community and faith-based organizations. She also served as a crisis hotline counselor for the Memphis Crisis Center. Added to these roles, she has been an ordained Christian minister since 1999, serving in diverse capacities within different local and national organizations, including the All Saints Chapel (Puerto Rico), Forest Street Church of God (Anderson), and Greer Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church (Memphis).
While developing her professional journey, Ms. Poplar completed coursework in environmental science at Savannah State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health from the University of Georgia. She also obtained degrees and certificates in business management, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, and substance abuse counseling. Eminently qualified in her field, she is a lifelong learner and holds certifications in food psychology coaching, personal fitness chef, and weight management. Additionally, she is a life member of both the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW), and American Veterans (AMVETS). Ms. Poplar is also founder of two non-profit organizations: Detroit Black Veterans Alliance and Nourish to Life by Poplar Christian Health Service.
Looking to the future, Ms. Poplar intends to prioritize her overall health and wellbeing while continuing her service as a living embodiment of love, inspiring everyone she encounters to make this world a better place for all.
About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Marquis celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2023, and Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. Marquis® publications may be visited at the official Marquis Who's Who® website at www.marquiswhoswho.com.
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