What might drive a 20 year old son of two former slaves to begin studying formally; and then go on to earn a high school diploma, undergraduate degree, graduate degree, and doctoral degree by the age of 37?
Sheer determination and an unwavering ability to "stick with it" and not give up despite the odds.
It was that same determination which led Carter G. Woodson to become only the second African-American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University, followed by the application and sharing of his knowledge with the world about the accomplishments of blacks.
Dr. Woodson, also known as “The Father of Black History,” in 1926 led Black America and all of America in the significant adoption of Negro History Week; later to be called Black History Month, which is an annual February celebration of the lineage and societal contributions made by people of African descent.
Being a radical and out-of-the-box thinker, mover, and shaker meant that Dr. Woodson had both supporters and opponents of his views and actions.
The supporters provided encouragement to Dr. Woodson in the continuation of his efforts; and the opposition did not derail his determination to make long-term, data-driven decisions that have spanned across decades and cultures throughout the world.
As current day change agents influence transformations in varying realms and environments, being reminded of Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s “legacy of determination” can serve to fuel dreams, thoughts, ideas, and decisions which may also encounter degrees of opposition; but if carried out will span across decades during the 21st Century.
Sharon M. Biggs, M.A., is a wife, mother, and 21st Century educational leader who serves as Co-Chair & President of Lifeline Foundation, Inc. This 23-year educator is also Founder, Editor, and Chief Writer of LifelineExtensions.blog. View Sharon's other published works at http://www.examiner.com/.
Contact Sharon directly for more information: sharonbiggs@mylifelinefoundation.org
"Children are the globe's most precious commodity."
(Terence H. Biggs, Jr. ~ 2009)
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