Chartay Robinson, Associate State Director of Advocacy & Outreach for AARP Northern Illinois, has spent over two decades dedicated to bridging gaps between academic institutions and underserved communities. From her early days at the University of Chicago Medical Center under the mentorship of former First Lady Michelle Obama, Robinson cultivated her skills in community engagement and health equity. Her career path, rooted in purpose and service, led her to AARP, where she now advocates for older adults and fosters community connections across Chicago’s Southside. Robinson’s journey is not just a profession but a calling—one shaped by a commitment to empowering marginalized voices and creating opportunities for transformative change.
What is your profession, what is your company name, what are your responsibilities and why did you select your career?
I am the Associate State Director of Advocacy & Outreach for AARP Northern Illinois. I am responsible for engaging, educating, and speaking on behalf of our AARP members. I have the privilege of serving and advocating on behalf of communities on the Southside of Chicago. Although AARP is known for discounts, we offer resources from pre-retirement to retirement, livable communities, caregiving, volunteering and so much more. We also partner with community organizations to offer fun-filled events and experiences. You’re never too young to be an AARP member.
Reflecting over 25 years of community engagement in one form or another, this life chose me. When I started my career, I didn’t know that caring, listening, fellowshipping, speaking on behalf of, and being present and passionate was a profession. These fundamental interpersonal skills ground me and grow with me anywhere I go.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpower(s) to be?
My Superpower is being a Purposeful Connector.
What thoughtful or encouraging piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
The advice I would give to my younger self is to be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. You may feel alone and unseen, but your light will shine so bright, that people will gravitate to you upon entering any room. All of the wisdom that Daddy is blessing you with now, is preparing you for when you have to walk this journey without him. You will make him proud.
If you could thank any Black woman for her contributions to history and society, who would it be and why?
There are many Black Women who I would thank for their contributions, but there is one Woman who was my Bonus Mother, Mentor, Best Friend, and inspiration, Susan D. Peters (April 6, 1949 – December 16, 2022). Susan wore many hats (literally), she was a mother, writer, activist, advocate, and community defender. She was one of one.
I AM #SusanStrong!
Why is it important for more experienced Black women to reach back and help younger women of color?
I am a reflection of more experienced Black Women reaching back to share their knowledge and expertise with a younger me. At every stage of my professional career, there was a Black Woman who took me under her wing to mentor me. Those experiences, conversations, and support were priceless. Collectively, they saw a light in me before I could embrace it myself. I take great pride in pouring into young professionals because I know the power of what it can do and who they can become.
As a successful woman in business, what is your greatest or proudest achievement?
My greatest professional achievement is earning my Bachelor’s degree in Business Healthcare Management in 2017. I was privileged to work at two academic medical institutions prior to earning my degree. My community engagement and outreach skills created positions and opportunities to grow, however, I had unfinished business, earning my degree. In 2014, I committed myself to four years, I was a divorced mother of two and a full-time professional. I finished in three years and made the Dean’s List each semester. Lesson: It’s never too late.
