Teen of the Week: Toshima J. Cook

Annapolis grad known for her smile, success

By WENDI WINTERS, For The Capital

Published 08/29/08

"It takes a village to raise a child" is an expression that's familiar to Toshima J. Cook.

Wendi Winters - For The Capital Toshima J. Cook, 18, a resident of the Mago Vista neighborhood of Arnold and a member of Annapolis High School’s Class of 2008, is starting a new chapter in her life at Morgan College this month. The teen was part of Annapolis High’s International Baccalaureate Programme, played varsity softball and was active in band.

Yet she believes her upbringing was different: "While it takes a village to raise most children, in my case, it took a whole city," she said.

When she was younger, Toshima lived with her grandmother, Pamela Porter, a county social worker, while her mother, Ronnette Cook, resided and worked in another state.

"I'm an only child, but I was raised by a lot of people," Toshima said. "Everyone in my grandmother's family became my family. Mom's 15 brothers and sisters, my aunts and...

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Toshima Cook - September 5, 2008

This young woman is Gods' child. She is brave, bright and highly self-motivated. She comes from a long line of Arnold family members which includes the Days, Goughs and Porters. A very close family who loves and embraces each other as well as the surronding community. Keep up the great work Toshima!

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