Ralph Anderson (politician) facts for kids

Ralph Anderson (born November 2, 1927 – died November 30, 2019) was an important American politician. He was a member of the Democratic Party. Mr. Anderson served in the South Carolina Senate for the 7th District from 1997 to 2013. Before that, he was a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1991 to 1997. He dedicated many years to public service in South Carolina.

Education and Early Life

Ralph Anderson grew up in Greenville, South Carolina. He attended Sterling High School (South Carolina) there. After high school, he continued his studies.

College and Graduate Studies

Mr. Anderson earned his bachelor's degree from Allen University in 1949. He also did graduate studies at Howard University. His education helped prepare him for a life of service.

A Career in Public Service

Ralph Anderson had a long and successful career in public service. He held several important roles. These roles allowed him to help the people of South Carolina.

Serving in the State Legislature

Mr. Anderson served in both parts of South Carolina's state government. He was a Representative in the State House from 1991 to 1997. Then, he became a Senator in the State Senate from 1997 to 2013. In these roles, he helped make laws for the state.

Working for Greenville City

Before joining the state government, Mr. Anderson served his hometown. He was a Council Member for the City of Greenville from 1983 to 1991. He also served on the City of Greenville Zoning Board. This board helps decide how land can be used in the city.

Other Public Roles

Mr. Anderson also served on the Greenville Civil Service Commission. This group helps manage city employees. He was also on the Board of Directors for the Greater Greenville Chamber of Commerce. This group supports local businesses.

Important Committees

As a state senator, Ralph Anderson worked on many important committees. These groups study specific topics and help create new laws.

Key Legislative Committees

He was a member of committees like Corrections and Penology. This committee deals with prisons and justice. He also served on the Education Committee, which focuses on schools. Other committees included Finance, Medical Affairs, and Transportation.

Community Involvement

Beyond lawmaking, Mr. Anderson was active in his community. He was a board member for the Community Planning Council. He also represented the city on the Greenville Housing Authority Board.

Professional Life

Before becoming a full-time politician, Ralph Anderson had other jobs. These experiences helped him understand different parts of life.

Serving in the Military

From 1950 to 1952, Mr. Anderson served in the United States Army. He was a Non-Commissioned Officer. He was stationed at Fort Jackson and in Germany.

Working for the Post Office

Later, he worked for the United States Postal Service. He served as a Postmaster from 1970 to 1983. A postmaster manages a local post office.

Community Organizations

Ralph Anderson was a member of many organizations. He worked to improve his community in many ways.

Leadership Roles

He was the President of the Board of Directors for the Phyllis Wheatley Center. This center helps people in the community. He was also the First Vice President of the Greenville Chapter of the NCAAP. This group works for civil rights.

Supporting Local Groups

Mr. Anderson was a board member for the Greenville YMCA. He also served on the Board of Trustees for Saint Anthony's Catholic School. He was involved with Senior Action of Greenville County, which helps older adults.

Retirement and Legacy

On March 21, 2012, Ralph Anderson announced he would not run for re-election. He retired from the State Senate in 2013. He passed away on November 30, 2019, at the age of 92. Ralph Anderson is remembered for his many years of service to South Carolina.