Dr. Penny Ruth Njoroge is a psychologist and board certified chaplain. She was born in Kenya and was the first girl in her family to go to school at the age of 11. She obtained her PhD at the age of 62. Despite domestic violence, divorce, poverty, and raising a family, she was able to complete her education. Her difficult life circumstances led her to depression which she overcame and wants to help others rise above similar circumstances. She attributes her success to her strong mother figure that grew up in poverty but always taught her children to strive for better. 

On the 3rd Anniversary of her U.S. citizenship, on Sept. 12, 2020, she was a contestant in Ms. Senior Alabama. She won 1st Runner, Miss Congeniality, and People’s Choice, our theme happened to be "I'm Proud to Be an American."  

Her philosophy of life is: “I am breaking free from my past pains and regrets, to pursue my dreams. I refuse to die unfulfilled with my gifts and talents unused. I desire to impact others by encouraging, equipping, and empowering them to dream big - one person at a time. That’s my legacy and I believe it’s never too late.” 

This is Dr. Penny's statement about being in the pageant:

"Ms. Senior Alabama is not just about a pretty face but mostly about beautiful and inspiring stories that build, encourage, and empower others. Our God of limitless accomplishments helps us achieve things we never imagined would ever happen to us, considering our past painful experiences and journeys which life has brought us through. My deepest gratitude goes to my God for his blessings, to my priceless children/grandchildren, and to my siblings who have stood with me through thick and thin, believed in me, and encouraged me through this journey. Nominated by a dear friend I worked with more than three years ago, I resisted in every way that it's unethical for me to be in a Ms. Senior Alabama Pageant at my age, where physical/facial beauty was not a priority. The more I argued my case the more I was encouraged to participate because the organization is more interested in senior women sharing personal and inspiring stories that were not only timeless, but with a potential to encourage others to live their full potential regardless of age, public status, or nationality. They were looking for effective role models and mentors. Senior ladies who could motivate other seniors not to quit in life because of advancing age, empty nests, and all of the physical aging challenges. They want senior ladies who choose to age gracefully, confidently, and daringly. Ladies who purpose to leave a legacy and impact in their families and beyond. What stories are you constantly hiding or withholding that can motivate, inspire, encourage, and empower others not to quit in life? What untold stories are we dying with that can clarify biases and myths about our origins, cultures, traditions, and beliefs that could enhance interpersonal relationships for better families, communities or even nations at large? It's time we stopped waiting for others to do things to bring advancement at every level to make the world a better place. This is not just my personal victory, it is my entire family victory."