Black History Month helps Adina Young think about how strong her ancestors were, which helps her stay centered and focused on her goals.
National Nuclear Security Administration
February 27, 2024
minute read time
How do you support NNSA?
I support NNSA by providing communications support. Whether it’s ensuring document accessibility, creating communications plans for tech rollouts, or reviewing and updating presentations or documents to ensure we are on brand, I enjoy it all!
What is your personal background, and how has that shaped you and your approach to your career?
I was fortunate enough to be raised in a military family. My father was in the Air Force, I have a sister who just retired from the Navy, and another who is currently serving. Seeing how much they all give to this country inspired me to go on the path of nonprofit communications. For almost 20 years, I provided communications, marketing, and project management support for nonprofits in the DC area. My recent transition to NNSA and supporting its important mission was new territory for me but what I am finding is that this is still mission-driven work and, in fact, a mission that’s even closer to the work my family has been doing in the military.
What did you study in school and how did it impact you personally and professionally?
I received my B.A. in Communications and my M.A. in Journalism and Public Affairs. I have always been a stickler for all things grammar and facts so combining my love for those two things led me to journalism. I continue to freelance when opportunities arise, and my passion continues to be my guide. It also helps to have a wonderful team of people to work with!
What led you to a career in nuclear security?
To be honest, it was a total whim initially. As a journalist and a military kid, I pride myself on being a life-long learner and someone who can adjust rather quickly in new settings. I’ve always been interested in government work, and in particular, work that would be aligned with my families’ values and beliefs. There are so many opportunities to learn, I could never be bored!
What is the best part about your job?
100% the people! Working with my colleagues and the federal team at NNSA is awesome. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by intelligent and open-minded folks, which keeps me engaged, and even entertained! I love supporting teams to help them reach their communications and marketing goals.
What is your proudest accomplishment while supporting NNSA?
It’s a little early for me on my NNSA journey to call out the proudest accomplishment being so new. But I am sure there will be plenty to come!
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
The first thing that comes to mind is that I am a triplet. My sister Celeste serves in the U.S. Navy as a physician in Catania, and my sister Courtney just retired in Ventura, CA and has since relocated to San Diego. They make me so proud every day.
Do you have any highlights from your time supporting NNSA?
I am still new to my career in NNSA and while I have been accumulating some exciting projects, I’m thrilled to continue my support to the NNSA mission and look forward to future endeavors!
What advice would you have for anyone interested in a career in nuclear security?
Find a great mentor, someone who can help answer your questions and guide you in the right direction. You can never go wrong with engaging someone you trust with your interest in this field. From there, just keep an open mind. You may think you want to do one thing, then you find out there is a completely different path in nuclear security, STEM or public service that fits better with your life goals.
Who is someone that inspires you and why?
My idol has always been Ida B. Wells, a black journalist and activist from the 19th and early 20th centuries who always sought to expose the truth about the lynchings of African Americans across the United States and traveled internationally to share about it in foreign spaces. Even when it resulted in her having to relocate from Memphis to Chicago, she kept going! Recognizing that there is so much power in truth is an inspiration and what I fight for every day.
How do you plan to celebrate/commemorate Black History Month?
For me, I celebrate being Black every day, not just during Black History Month. I think about how strong my ancestors were to physically make that transatlantic “trip” and survive, how they survived the slavery, how they lived through Jim Crow, and how they fought for the right to vote. That helps me stay centered and focused on my goals.
Do you have any traditions related to this observance?
Not specifically but my birthday falls at the end of Black History Month, so it’s always a celebration, and I love and am proud to be Black.