THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine November 2018 | Page 25

BLACK AUTHORS ROCK : AUTHOR SPOTLIGHTS     LESLIE DILLARD MINISTER ON THE MOVE A preacher’s kid from Huntsville, Alabama, Leslie is always genuine and always serving. Leslie is a #1 bestselling author, motivational speaker, spoken word artist and playwright currently living in the Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri area.  She officially retired from the U.S. Army after 35 years of service in March 2018. She has served in many capacities both nationally and internationally.  Her last assignment was the Deputy Assistant Commandant of the US Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear School at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Leslie amasses a fan base wherever she goes. She is involved in the community and works in several ministries within her church and was licensed for ministry in May 2018. Leslie works diligently with the youth ministries wherever she goes. While stationed in Germany, Leslie served as the youth director at Volgelweh Chapel. She is the administrator for the Christian Education Ministry, co-director of the Arts Ministry, a member of the youth ministry staff and the Minister over Media at Still Useable Ministries Church, Saint Robert, Missouri. NOVEMBER 2018 • THRIVE | 23