Dr. Tristaca McCray is a dynamic force in the world, a global leader, author, and advocate for mental health, wellness, and empowerment. Raised in a single-parent household, Dr. McCray deeply understands the challenges many young women face. Her journey, from a girl growing up in California to a trailblazing woman making history, is a testament to resilience and determination. Moving to San Diego in 2000, Dr. McCray began her career in clinical research at UC San Diego, where she worked as a research assistant in pulmonary diseases. Her experience expanded to clinical coordination for cancer studies, women’s health, and eventually, she became a Clinical Monitor and Data Analyst for FDA audits. This invaluable experience in clinical research and community involvement sparked her passion for planting seeds of hope and inspiring change in people’s lives.
In 2011, Dr. McCray founded NERDS RULE INC., an organization devoted to empowering youth, teens, young adults, and veterans locally and globally. Through leadership programs, mental health initiatives, college prep, and entrepreneurship training, NERDS RULE INC. continues to transform lives in underserved communities. The organization tackles issues like wellness, climate change, and mental health, creating lasting impacts worldwide. Dr. McCray is also the first African American woman to serve as the General Secretary of the World Kindness Movement, a global organization promoting kindness across 40+ nations.
Her contributions have earned multiple recognitions from prestigious organizations, including the White House Global “Change Maker” Award from First Lady Michelle Obama and President Obama. Dr. McCray has been featured in Forbes and celebrated with proclamations for NERDS RULE INC. and Tristaca McCray Day in San Diego for her pioneering work in suicide prevention. Dr. McCray’s inspirational poetry book, My Butterfly Wings (published June 24, 2024), delves into themes of healing, faith, self-love, and empowerment, reflecting her commitment to spreading hope and resilience.
As a global mentor, consultant, and community leader, Dr. McCray continues to inspire individuals to unlock their full potential. Whether you seek guidance, collaboration, or want to be part of a global movement centered around kindness and leadership, Dr. Tristaca McCray is the person to connect with.
About Dr. Tristaca McCray
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love planting seeds of hope and peace as a community leader. I never imagined my life would touch so many but creating safe spaces for others has been incredibly rewarding. I will continue teaching and empowering communities locally and globally.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
My advice: never let anyone box you in. When others define your limits, they often seal the lid and forget you inside. As a leader and mentor, I encourage you to break free, rise beyond expectations, and build your own path, boldly and unapologetically. You were born to lead, not to fit.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
As a community leader, in 5 to 10 years I see myself opening a STEM school and expanding leadership programs for the next generation of changemakers. Whether through a summer initiative or after-school program, my vision includes launching a global academy focused on leadership development, wellness, entrepreneurship, and climate advocacy. I’m committed to nurturing youth, teens, and young adults into empowered, compassionate leaders who will transform their communities and the world.
Dr. Tristaca McCray & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I really enjoy supporting the local mom-and-pop restaurants in our community. There’s something special about their warmth, character, and the way they serve food made with love. A few of my favorites are places like family-owned taco shops, small cafes, and cozy diners that give you that homey feel. The kind of places where you can chat with the owners and enjoy a meal that’s crafted with care. These spots hold a lot of heart, and they always make dining feel like a personal experience.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have proudly lived and worked in our community since the year 2000, dedicating over two decades to service, leadership, and empowerment across San Diego and beyond.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most interesting and inspiring people I’ve met in our community are the youth, teens, and young adults. Their resilience, creativity, and passion to create change are why I started the NERDS RULE INC. Ambassador Project, to help guide, empower, and amplify their voices.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My favorite thing about our community is creating safe spaces where individuals can connect, grow, and feel supported.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I meet people every day who cross my path on this beautiful, sometimes painful journey. Spreading kindness, I appreciate those who plant seeds of hope and positivity, leaving an impact even in brief moments. I’m blessed to be surrounded by the love and resilience of the human spirit. The connections I make remind me of the power of kindness and how it transforms lives, including mine.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
One of my favorite types of entertainment is black and white movies and TV shows. There’s something timeless about them that captures the essence of storytelling. I especially love classics from Alfred Hitchcock and The Twilight Zone. The suspense, mystery, and creativity in those shows always keep me captivated. I also enjoy 90’s TV shows like Martin, Living Single, and In Living Color the humor and cultural impact of those shows still resonate today. Of course, I Love Lucy is a classic favorite of mine as well her comedic timing and charm never get old. There’s a special magic in those shows that never fails to bring a smile to my face!
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Something interesting that most people don’t know about me is that I miss singing deeply. In high school, I had the joy of performing at Disneyland, singing in church choirs, and even dreamed of becoming an opera singer in college. Though I chose a different path, music will always be a piece of my heart.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
I would rate our weather a 10 out of 10! It’s like a perfect balance, sometimes a warm, sun-kissed day that lifts your spirits, and other times, the most refreshing rain drops that cleanse and rejuvenate. Whether it’s the sunny moments or the cozy rainy ones, it’s always a reminder of how beautiful and diverse life can be, just like our weather.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
The person who inspires me to be better is my mother. She taught me the power of prayer, the importance of self-worth, unwavering strength, and resilience. Her guidance shaped the foundation of who I am today. Additionally, I am inspired by the T.R.I.B.E in my life who allow me to be myself, creating a safe space where I can grow and heal. They support me while I fix my crown, both in public and in private. It’s this combination of strength, love, and understanding that keeps me striving to be the best version of myself every day.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is: “Don’t allow this world to dim your light. Walk into every room like God sent you there.” It’s a daily reminder to lead with purpose, confidence, and divine intention.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
My ideal San Diego weekend involves a relaxing trip to the beach with family or friends. I love visiting the different beaches here, enjoying a bonfire, good food, fun games, and lots of laughter. It’s all about catching up and appreciating the stunning sunsets, truly a gift from the sky in San Diego.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Peace, Belonging, Foundation
Website:https://nerds-rule-inc.org/
