Ida P. Cathey, L. Todd Burke and Gemma Saluta

Ida P. Cathey was one of the first black students hired at RJ Reynolds in the 1950s. During her 45-year career, she helped integrate schools and was named one of Winston-Salem’s most influential teachers. Now retired, she works with the Golden Girls to bring up test scores and ‘‘love the children into learning.”

L. Todd Burke comes from a family devoted to public service. In addition to his position as Superior Court Judge, he is an educator and advocate for underserved youth. “We are more alike than not. Take advantage of any opportunity to converse with people.” 

A daughter of Filipino immigrants, Gemma Saluta has excelled at her career in business law.  She is passionate about increasing the breadth and depth of community engagement and serves on the boards of multiple local non-profits.

Ida P. Cathey
portrait by L. Todd Burke and Gemma Saluta

Ida P. Cathey is a retired educator that helped integrate Winston-Salem Forsyth County schools as a teacher. She wants people to be their best and instilled that in both her students and family She has deep faith in God and strives to make her community better.

Judge L. Todd Burke
portrait by Ida P. Cathey and Gemma Saluta

Todd Burke comes from a family devoted to public service. He serves as a judge in Forsyth County and is doing an impeccable job. His family knows that change happens when experienced, thoughtful people are present and in position to do good. Judge Burke builds the foundation to make the whole system fair and just.

Gemma Saluta
portrait by Ida P. Cathey and L. Todd Burke

Gemma is an attorney in civil litigation and business law specializing at the largest law firm in the state of North Carolina. She has a compelling desire for fairness and to be a voice for those who do not have their own. She is the mother of a 4-year-old son. To capture her portrait, we asked questions about her profession to show the joy that she has for her work.

© Segun Michael
© Segun Michael