Thelma Davidson Adair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thelma Davidson Adair
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| Born |
Thelma Cornelia Davidson
August 29, 1920 Iron Station, North Carolina, U.S.
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| Died | August 21, 2024 (aged 103) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Barber–Scotia College Bennett College Teachers College, Columbia University |
| Occupation | Presbyterian church leader, educator, social advocate/activist, and writer |
| Spouse(s) |
Arthur Adair
(m. 1940; died 1979) |
Thelma Cornelia Davidson Adair (born August 29, 1920 – died August 21, 2024) was an amazing American educator, church leader, and activist. She worked hard for human rights, peace, and fairness for everyone. Thelma Adair was a strong voice for change and helped many people throughout her life.
She was a leader in the Presbyterian church and an ordained Elder. This means she held an important role in her church, the Mount Morris Ascension Presbyterian Church in Harlem, New York City. In 1976, she became the moderator (a top leader) for the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (UPCUSA). She was the first Black woman to achieve this important position.
Thelma Adair was also very involved in early childhood education. She helped create and support Head Start programs in Harlem. These programs give young children from low-income families a good start in school. She lived in Harlem since 1942 and was a respected professor at Queens College.
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Early Life and Education
Thelma Cornelia Davidson was born in 1920 in Iron Station, North Carolina. She was one of six children. Her family later moved to Kings Mountain, North Carolina. In 1940, she married Reverend Dr. Arthur Eugene Adair. They moved to New York City in 1942. Her husband became the Senior Pastor of the Mount Morris United Presbyterian Church.
Thelma Adair studied at Barber–Scotia College and Bennett College. She then earned two advanced degrees, a master's degree and a Doctorate of Education, from Teachers College, Columbia University. This showed her strong commitment to learning and education.
World War II Efforts
During World War II, Thelma Adair, like many Americans, helped with the war effort. She worked in a factory that made things for the war. Her job was to inspect radar tubes, which were important for military equipment. At this time, she was also a young mother.
She remembered how difficult things were for Black people in America during that time. Despite facing unfair treatment and challenges, Black Americans remained loyal to their country. They believed in America and wanted the same opportunities as everyone else. Thelma Adair's experience showed her strong spirit and dedication to a better future for all.
A Career of Service and Leadership
Thelma Adair was a key organizer for the West Harlem Head Start Programs. In 1944, she helped start Project Uplift at her church, which later became the Arthur Eugene and Thelma Adair Community Life Center Head Start. This center helps more than 250 children in Harlem get ready for school. She also wrote many articles about early childhood education, which are used by educators across the United States.
In 1976, Thelma Adair made history when she was elected as the Moderator of the General Assembly for the Presbyterian Church. She was the first Black woman to hold this high-ranking position. During her time as moderator, she traveled to 115 countries, sharing her message of peace and justice.
She was also one of the people who helped start Presbyterian Senior Services. This organization provides support and care for older adults. From 1980 to 1984, she served as president of Church Women United, a group of Christian women who work for social change. She was also part of the "Fellowship of the Least Coin," a worldwide prayer movement.
Later Life and Legacy
Thelma Adair continued to be an active and respected figure throughout her life. In 2011, she was honored by Congressman Charles Rangel for her many contributions. She even attended the 50th anniversary of the historic Selma to Montgomery marches in Alabama, walking across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
Thelma Adair passed away on August 21, 2024, at the remarkable age of 103. Her life was a powerful example of dedication to education, faith, and fighting for a fair and just world.
Important Affiliations
- Chair, Presbyterian Senior Services
- Advisor, Church Women United, National Board
- Advisory Council, National Council of Churches
- Member, Harlem Hospital Community Advisory Board
Awards and Honors
- The Thelma C. Adair Award on Presbyterian Senior Services
- Barber-Scotia Alumni Award for Meritorious Service in the Field of Education
- Columbia University, Teacher's College Distinguished Alumni Award
- United Negro College Fund Distinguished Award for Outstanding Service and Commitment of Higher Education
- 1986 Recipient of Women of Faith Award from the Presbyterian Church
- 1991 Recipient of National Association of Presbyterian Clergywomen Women of Faith Awards
- 2008 Recipient of the Medal of Distinction Barnard College
- 2011 recipient of the Maggie Kuhn Presbyterian Church Award
