Each of the eight figures highlighted here shares insight into the state of education in Charleston and the Mississippi Delta. Each individual has a unique story which informs his or her opinions. Several generations are represented. Taken together, this page acts as a continuous dialogue of exceptional people across class, race, and geographical lines. While each person's story differs from the rest, one thing remains the same; all agree that progress has occurred, but also that it must persist. Ms. Simms remembers black history she learned from school, but Alfreda Hawkins only learned it in church and at home. Alvin White stresses the need to embrace multiple intelligences within the black community. Dyann Moody-Smith sees poverty as a critical factor contributing to poor performance in the Delta, while Liz Alston laments apathy and complacency in Charleston. Gathered here in the Community Center, they share their stories, complement one another, and struggle to preserve African-American heritage, history, and culture.

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF WHO YOU'LL FIND AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER

Alfreda Hawkins: Librarian at Fraser Elementary School, Charleston

Elizabeth Alston: Education reform activist, Board of Education member, Charleston

Ian Millhiser (Ebo): Middle-school teacher for Teach for America in the Arkansas Delta

Quiana Peterson : Second-generation teacher in Mississippi Delta

Dyann Moody-Smith: Teacher in Clarksdale, Mississippi

Alvin White: Vice Principal of Burke High School, Charleston

Mr. Gates: Piano tuner, musician, and store owner, Clarksdale, Mississippi

Ms. Simms: Retired teacher, former student at all black high school, Charleston