I am Tamela Beene, originally from Richardson, Texas, and currently residing in Westfield, New Jersey. My journey has been shaped by both personal and professional challenges, and through these, I've found my calling in marketing, education, and advocacy.

My early years were marked by a profound family tragedy when I lost my mother at the age of 19. This pivotal moment led to my adoption by my aunt and uncle, Ed and Shirley Knerr, in Jersey Village, Texas, expanding my family to include an older sister and three younger brothers. The support and love from this new family provided me with the foundation to pursue my academic and professional ambitions.

I attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, where I earned a degree in Marketing in 2003. During my time at university, I was deeply involved in student governance, serving as a senator at-large, and also pledged to Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, later serving as a national officer. These roles honed my leadership and organizational skills, which have been crucial throughout my career.

After college, I moved to New Jersey, working in several marketing firms before starting my own firm in 2004. I operated my business successfully until 2007, when I decided to switch my focus to education. I served as a full-time substitute teacher and DECA advisor at Scotch Plains Fanwood High School until 2014, where I was proud to lead my students to significant achievements at national and international levels.

My work has been recognized at a community level, and in January 2024, I was honored with the "No Excuses" award by Pratt Personal Training for my dedication to maintaining physical fitness despite my health challenges. These challenges have been significant; in 2021, I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, which had spread to my bones by 2023, necessitating a hip replacement.

Beyond my professional life, I am deeply committed to philanthropy. I've held several volunteer positions, including the presidency of the Central New Jersey Alumni Association and board member roles at local charities. My efforts in advocacy extend to supporting cancer awareness and aiding children rescued from sex trafficking.

Despite these challenges, my focus remains on my son, Lochlan Cody Beene, and on maintaining a lifestyle that supports my health and allows me to continue my advocacy work. My life is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the support of loved ones in facing life’s hurdles.