Bernadine Newsom Denning facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bernadine Newsom Denning
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born |
Bernadine Newsom
1930 Detroit, Michigan
|
| Died | January 11, 2011 (aged 80–81) Port St. Lucie, Florida
|
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Educator |
| Spouse(s) | Blaine Denning |
Bernadine Newsom Denning (1930 – January 11, 2011) was an amazing American educator and civil rights activist. She worked hard to make things fair for everyone and was even honored in the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame for her important contributions.
Contents
Bernadine Denning's Life and Work
Early Life and Education
Bernadine Newsom Denning was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1930. When she was just 16 years old, she taught swimming. She worked at the Lucy Thurman branch of the Detroit YWCA.
In 1951, Bernadine started her career as a physical education teacher. She taught in the public schools of Detroit. Over the years, she moved up in her career. She eventually became an assistant superintendent. This role involved working on community relations for the school district.
Bernadine also shared her knowledge at universities. She was an assistant professor of education at the University of Michigan. She also served on the board of trustees for Central Michigan University. This meant she helped guide the university's decisions.
Working for Human Rights
Bernadine Denning was dedicated to helping people. She held important roles that focused on human rights. She was the director of the Title IV office for Detroit public schools. This office helped make sure everyone had equal opportunities in education.
She also directed the human rights office for the city of Detroit. This role meant she worked to protect the rights of all citizens. Her work was recognized at a national level. President Jimmy Carter appointed her to a special role. She became the director of the Office of Revenue Sharing. This office was part of the United States Department of the Treasury.
Leadership and Recognition
Bernadine was a strong leader in many organizations. From 1975 to 1977, she was a member of the Michigan Women's Commission. This group worked to improve the lives of women in Michigan. She also served as its vice-chair. In 1981, Governor William Milliken appointed her to chair the commission. She led this important group until 1987.
She also held national leadership roles. She was the national vice-president for the YWCA Convention. She was also the national vice president for the National Council of Negro Women. Bernadine was the national project chairperson for Delta Sigma Theta, a sorority focused on public service.
In 1989, Bernadine Denning was recognized for her amazing work. She was named to the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame. She also received the National Lifetime Achievement Award from the American YWCA. Other honors included the Detroit Urban League's Distinguished Warrior Award. She also received the Spirit of Detroit Award.
Family Life and Later Years
Bernadine Denning married Blaine Denning, a basketball player, around 1957. The couple moved to Florida around 2001.
Bernadine passed away on January 11, 2011, at the age of 80. She died after having a heart attack at her home in Port St. Lucie, Florida. She is remembered for her dedication to education and civil rights. She was survived by her sister, Ruby Graham, and two grandchildren.
