By Catherine Pugh, Particular to the AFRO
Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, twentieth nationwide president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and pioneering educator, died at her house in Charlotte, North Carolina, on March 20, on the age of 93.
“Dr. Roddey was an excellent educator who devoted her life to service and creating strategic partnerships,” mentioned Baltimore Alumnae Chapter President Geraldine Finch.
In 1968, Maxwell-Roddey was one of many first Black girls appointed principal at a previously all-White Charlotte-Mecklenburg elementary college. She joined the school of the College of North Carolina-Charlotte (UNCC) in 1970, turning into the varsity’s second Black professor. 4 years later, she grew to become the founding director of UNCC’s Africana Research Division and she or he co-founded the Afro-American Cultural and Service Middle, now often called the Harvey B. Gantt Middle for African American Arts.
“There most likely wouldn’t be a Harvey B. Gantt Middle with out Bertha Maxwell-Roddey’s imaginative and prescient. We’re grateful for her consideration to the African American tradition in our metropolis,” mentioned Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles.
”Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey’s legacy will dwell on by the numerous lives she has influenced by training, neighborhood advocacy, and the significance of preserving and celebrating Black Historical past, arts and tradition,” posted the Gantt Middle on Fb.
In an announcement launched by the Nationwide Workplace of Delta Sigma Theta it was famous that in Maxwell-Roddey’s presidency, the sorority partnered with Habitat for Humanity to handle housing insecurity. By means of this partnership, members of the sorority helped construct over 350 properties for households in america, the Caribbean and Africa.
“Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey was an lively and impactful member of Delta Sigma Theta for over 72 years. She impressed me as I watched her lead with grace and integrity,” mentioned Finch, the Baltimore chapter president.
