Dear Students, Educators and Friends,
From majestic Upstate mountains to beautiful Low Country beaches, from high-tech laboratories and production facilities, to sun-dappled peach groves, our state is blessed with a rich diversity of experiences and images which define who we are as South Carolinians. The 13 extraordinary individuals whose stories we are privileged to present in the following pages have each added immeasurably to that definition.
This year’s honorees represent a wide array of endeavors, including government and military service, education, medicine, agriculture, religion, performing and fine arts and community activism. And regardless of the field, each has left a lasting imprint on the fabric of our state.
Like its predecessors, the 2012 African American History Calendar is dedicated to honoring the achievements of African Americans with roots in South Carolina. It was originally conceived as a tool to assist the State Department of Education in meeting the statutory requirement to include African American history in the curriculum. Today, reflecting the accomplishments of those memorialized in its pages, the Calendar is a virtual Hall of Fame, combining recognition with education. Each year, the Calendar is accessed online by thousands worldwide, spreading the benefits far beyond South Carolina classrooms. And the unveiling of each Calendar is an eagerly-awaited community event.
Our community partners have been invaluable in the Calendar’s success and we appreciate their continuing commitment and support in this 23rd annual edition.
In many ways, the evolution of the Calendar parallels the evolution of AT&T and the communications industry. Expansion of the Calendar beyond the traditional printed edition reflects citizens’ increasingly mobile lifestyle and desire to connect with people and information anytime, anywhere. That is why AT&T continues to invest in bringing new technologies to South Carolina. Through wireless broadband and other advanced services, we are helping to open doors to new opportunities, new jobs and new economic and personal growth.
The individuals featured in the 2012 African American History Calendar are shining role models for all our children. They recognized needs and opportunities, set lofty goals and committed themselves to achieving their dreams. Along the way, they overcame adversity, personified excellence and touched countless lives and communities. This Calendar is a celebration of their spirit, dedication and courage. It is also a tribute from a grateful State.
We hope you will enjoy and be inspired by their stories, as we have been.
Pamela P. Lackey
President
AT&T - South Carolina
