Dr. Tyra Manning’s story is both unique and universal, as it demonstrates the pervasive devastation of loss while demonstrating how courage and love can triumph. Tyra’s husband was shot down over the Laotian jungle while flying a top-secret mission during the Vietnam War. She learned of his death while she was hospitalized at the Menninger Clinic, where she was being treated for depression. Tyra’s worst fear had come true.
Determined to fulfill the rest of the dreams and promises she and her husband had made to one another, that she get well and become a teacher, Tyra persevered through the darkest of times. Ultimately, Tyra earned a doctorate in education from the University of Kansas, becoming one of the nation’s top school superintendents.
She has devoted her forty-year career to helping children achieve their highest potential. Since retiring in 2004, Dr. Manning’s mission has been to share her personal journey of hope with people who are experiencing depression, addiction, and loss.
Though she travels around the country delivering the messages and lessons in her new book, Where the Water Meets the Sand, Dr. Manning is a born and bred Texan. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country.
Brave Woman Speaks Out to Debunk Stigma
Having the courage to speak out about the need to confront one’s own mental illness takes a special person. In my musical memories blog this week, I showcased Meg Hutchinson, a poet, songwriter and vocalist. In a similar vein, web developer Madalyn Parker recently emailed her team saying she was taking two days off from […]
Musical Memories: “Home” by Meg Hutchinson
This week’s musical artist and song may not be familiar to you. I didn’t know about them until recently but, I must tell you, I’ve discovered a new heroine. Meet Meg Hutchinson. She’s a young poet, song writer and vocalist who spreads her message of hope and courage while debunking the stigma toward those who […]
Tyra Manning Interviewed on Mount Prospect, Illinois, Library Life Television Program
In May 2017, I was interviewed for the Mount Prospect, Illinois, Library’s award-winning, monthly cable television program, Library Life. It was my pleasure to talk with host Cathy Cushing about my memoir, Where the Water Meets the Sand. I’d like to thank Cathy and the Mount Prospect Public Library, as well as the National Alliance on […]
