CAROL DENISE MITCHELL Author • Advocate • Business Owner • Cultural Barrier‑Breaker Oakland, California Born May 12, 1955, Los Angeles, California American

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Carol Denise Mitchell is an award‑winning American author, small business owner, and cultural trailblazer whose work spans literature, advocacy, media, and public service. Listed in Marquis Who’s Who as a notable writer and business owner, Mitchell has built a legacy rooted in truth‑telling, resilience, and empowerment. Her books have earned strong reader reviews, industry recognition, and a devoted readership. Her advocacy and storytelling have earned the respect of public figures, including Olympic medalist Debi Thomas and members of Elon Musk’s team.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS • Listed in Marquis Who’s Who as a notable American writer and business owner • Award‑winning author with multiple highly rated books • Miss Congeniality, 1973, Miss Pomona Valley Pageant (sponsored by JCPenney), held at the new Claremont Theatre • One of the first Black women in California to win a major pageant award in an all‑white field • Bank of America Music Award, 1970–1973 • Honor Society Member, high school • Recognized by Elon Musk’s team for authenticity and dignity • Trusted by Debi Thomas, authoring the definitive biography “Debi Thomas: What Really Happened?” • Self‑educated mentor to writers and advocate for abused children and adults • On‑air news anchor, Soul Beat Television (2000–2003) • Founder and Owner, CDM Security (2002–present) • Volunteer, NAACP Oakland (2000)

PUBLISHED WORKS • Ruthless Pamela Jean • Maxine • Noah: True Love Never Dies • What Happened to Suzy (Anniversary Edition) • Debi Thomas: What Really Happened? • Surya Bonaly: A Tribute • Your Rights: What Employers Do Not Want You to Know • Miss Congeniality (featuring the original 1973 newspaper clipping)

LITERARY IMPACT • Multiple titles with strong reader reviews across Amazon and Goodreads • Books praised for authenticity, emotional depth, and cultural relevance • Recognized as a self‑educated mentor for writers and advocate for vulnerable communities

CAREER HISTORY Owner, CDM Security (2002–present) Professional Contractor, Administrative Services, Concord, CA (1995–2002) On‑Air News Anchor, Soul Beat Television (2000–2003) Volunteer, NAACP Oakland (2000)

PAGEANTRY AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE • Miss Congeniality, 1973, Miss Pomona Valley Pageant • Only Black contestant in a high‑profile, celebrity‑attended event • Recognized by peers for kindness, grace, and leadership • Early barrier‑breaker whose win helped pave the way for future Black pageant winners • Publicly honored at her high school following the win

EDUCATION • Honor Society Member, high school • Self‑educated scholar and lifelong learner

PERSONAL BACKGROUND Born to Zebbie Thomas and Tascaeie Carise Charles in Los Angeles, California Married Willie Mitchell (1994) and later Daryl Dean Thompson (divorced) Mother of Shaun Evans Caldwell and Daryl Dean Thompson Jr.

LEGACY STATEMENT Carol Denise Mitchell’s life is a testament to brilliance, resilience, and self‑determination. From breaking racial barriers in 1970s pageantry to becoming a respected author and advocate, her story reflects a woman who rose above adversity and built a legacy that continues to empower others.