Distinguished Graduates 2016: Ranjita Cornette means business
Ranjita (Anji) Cornette graduated from Linganore in 1984, is the 2016 Distinguished Graduate honoree in Business.
Cornette says, “I felt humbled and honored when I found out I was receiving this award.”
She is Vice President of Graphic Audio, an audiobook publisher creating audio entertainment. “We have licenses with Marvel and DC Comics. We also publish titles in the fantasy, sci fi, western, horror and post-apocalytic genres.”
She also has a Christian rock band, HarvestBloom, that has had music featured in some Graphic Audio productions. Their music has been featured on HGTV, NBC, MTV, Nickelodeon, and more. Their song, “Let It Go”, reached Billboard’s new and active chart in September 2011. Her husband, Patrick, plays guitar for the band.
One job is not enough for Cornette. She oversees and manages Potomac Talking Book Services, a company that records books for the blind and physically handicapped program for the Library of Congress.
When asked what she likes most about her job, Cornette said “It [my job] is entrepreneurial and creative. It is different every day and very high paced. I have been blessed to be surrounded by talented, creative and intelligent people who share the same vision to work hard and be successful at what we do.”
Her high school activites could have predicted her future. She performed in talent shows, ran sound for the school plays and for the talent shows, and was in choir.
Cornette’s favorite subjects in school were algebra, music, social studies, and science including biology and chemistry. Her favorite teacher was Mr. Virts, a social studies teacher. She said “Not only was he an excellent Social Studies teacher who made learning fun but he also took the time to encourage his students to do their best.”
Her advice for graduating students is, “Work hard with integrity in every thing you do. Be patient and persevere as anything you want to achieve is worth it. Knowledge and experience are power and invaluable. While you are young, challenge yourself to try new opportunities and learn new skills and always remember to take time to have some fun.”