My first layoff was devastating. I was confused, frustrated, and embarrassed. I could not understand how I (using my British accent), Dr. Johnette Ruffner-Ceaser, could be experiencing this type of rejection. After all, I had done everything right. I had been a good student, earned three degrees, served as a National Director for the oldest and largest civil rights organization in the nation, I worked at several highly respected organizations, and everyone told me that once I