Member Spotlight: Deidre Gray

Life Member Deidre Gray of the Philadelphia Section visited the newly erected marble statue of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in Daytona Beach, Florida on Founders Day on December 5, 2021.

Deidre Gray

I was in awe of the beauty of the marble statue created in her honor by Master Sculptor Nilda Comas. I can’t express the level of pride exuded knowing that I as a member of NCNW Inc. have been charged with carrying on her legacy. When I stared into the eyes of the statue, it felt like she was looking at me and I instantly became inspired.

I thought to myself how impactful Dr. Bethune was in driving change and perceptions amongst presidents, dignitaries and civil rights advocates for the enhanced quality of life for African American Women, their Families and Communities.

If she could drive an impact during the suffrage movement, represent the voice of black communities and her community during a time when our people were fighting for basic rights, I need to go about the work with the same tenacity as she.

An additional highlight of the trip was meeting and sharing this moment with Laura Richardson from Broward County, Florida. Laura and I worked together for the past year as she served as the Chairperson for the Financial Literacy Committee under the REACH initiative. Once inside, we were warmly embraced by our NCNW sisters from the Daytona Beach Section. We introduced ourselves and we all marveled at the detail of the beautiful work of art before us.

Lastly, Laura and I then visited Bethune Cookman University where we walked around Dr. Bethune’s home and visited her final resting place. I couldn't help but stop, stare and utter a quiet thank you for her sacrifice and leadership.

Deidre Gray’s has been a member of NCNW Inc. since 2018. Major Contributions: Life Member, Philadelphia PA Section, NCNW Reach Committee -Financial Literacy Subcommittee, NCNW Bethune Birthday Celebration Tech Committee, PA State Coalition Social Media Chair, Chartering 2nd Vice President Delaware Valley Section, Philadelphia Section Membership Committee 2020-present and Founder's Day Program Committee Chair 2019