Andrew M. Bradley facts for kids

Andrew M. Bradley (1906–1983) was an important American accountant and government official. He worked for the state of Pennsylvania. He was the state's budget secretary from 1955 to 1957. This role meant he helped manage all of Pennsylvania's money. After that, he became the secretary of property and supplies until 1960. This job involved overseeing state buildings and supplies. Bradley made history as the first African American to hold a top-level position in Pennsylvania's government. He was also the second African American in Pennsylvania to become a certified public accountant. This means he was officially recognized as an expert in managing money for businesses and governments.

Andrew M. Bradley's Life and Achievements

Early Life and Education

Andrew M. Bradley was born in 1906. His birthplace was Neville Township, Pennsylvania. This area is in Allegheny County. His grandfather had been a slave in Delaware. Bradley went to Bedford High School. After high school, he continued his education. He took night classes at several places. These included the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He also studied at Cades CPA School and Thompson Business College. These studies helped him become a certified public accountant. This is a special license that shows someone is an expert in accounting.

A Career in Public Service

Bradley started his career working for the state. From 1937 to 1944, he was a state auditor. An auditor checks financial records to make sure everything is correct. After this, he worked as an independent accountant for ten years. This meant he worked for himself.

In 1955, Governor George M. Leader asked Bradley to join his team. Bradley was put in charge of the state's entire budget. This was a very important job. In 1957, Governor Leader gave Bradley another big role. He appointed him secretary of property and supplies. This government department managed a large budget of $50 million. Bradley earned a good salary of $20,000 in this role. He continued to serve in this position under the next governor, David L. Lawrence.

Making a Difference in Politics

Andrew Bradley was also very active in politics. He was a strong leader in the Pennsylvania Democratic Party. He served five times as vice president of the Young Democratic Clubs of Pennsylvania. These clubs help young people get involved in politics. He was also a delegate to the Democratic National Convention four times. This happened between 1948 and 1960. Delegates help choose the party's candidate for president. Bradley was a key leader for Black Democrats in Pennsylvania. In 1964, he became the treasurer of the Democratic State Committee. This role meant he managed the party's money.

Bradley received a special honor for his work. Lincoln University of Pennsylvania gave him an honorary doctorate. This is a special degree given to people who have achieved great things. He lived in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.