Title
Proclaiming June 30, 2013 to be Mary K. Murray Boyd Day in the City of Saint Paul.
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul recognizes and honors the vitality of the historic Rondo neighborhood of Saint Paul and the rich heritage of the people who lived and grew up there; and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd, was born and raised in the historic Rondo community by her parents, James T. and Lavinia Murray, whose strong love and commitment to community became the foundation for her service to the City of Saint Paul, the State of Minnesota, and our nation; and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd began her service to the community in her youth as a member of the ¾'s Club, the NAACP Youth Group, Tomorrow Scientists and Technicians, and several other social and civic organizations; and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd has dedicated the past 43 years of her life and career to the education of youth and families in Saint Paul, and has focused her educational pursuits to this same cause, having obtained a bachelor of science degree in social welfare, a master of science degree in guidance and counseling, and has completed post graduate doctoral work in educational administration; and
WHEREAS, she has served as the principal at Washington Junior High, Highland Junior High, Saint Paul Open School, and Saint Paul Area Learning Center, and as the Assistant Administrator of Saint Paul Central High School, Director of Saint Paul Street Academy, Executive Director of Achievement Plus Community Schools, and Area Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools, and has used her knowledge and experience to educate the next generation of leaders in the field of education through appointments as adjunct faculty at the University of Saint Thomas, the University of Minnesota Extension, and University of Wisconsin River Falls, and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd is a visionary leader who applies her intellect, heart, and spirit to champion the equitable treatment and educational advancement of youth, marginalized, stigmatized, and disadvantaged persons of African descent and others discriminated against because of their racial and cultural heritage, and she believes in the dignity and respect of various community, public and private entities working together in support of children and families; and that such partnership can successfully raise the opportunities and achievements for the benefit of all; and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd is a pillar of the Rondo community, a role model to youth and peers, and a dedicated culture bearer who has raised two children, Jeffrey and Laury Boyd, and mentored others through her work. She has served on many educational, civic, and cultural organizations, including Walker West Music Academy, African American Leadership Forum, Cultural Wellness Center, Saint Paul African American Leadership Council, UJAMAA, Saint Paul Children's Collaborative, Mentoring Young Adults, Network for the Development of Children of African Descent, Community of Peace Charter School, Penumbra Theatre, Network of Progressive Educators, and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated; and
WHEREAS, Mary K. Murray Boyd continues the 'spirit of Rondo' through her educational achievements, teaching, mentoring, advocacy for youth, and cultural pride, and the Committee to Celebrate Rondo Legends invites the community to celebrate her legacy and family values by honoring Mary K. Murray Boyd;
NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council does hereby proudly declare Sunday, June 30, 2013 to be Mary K. Murray Boyd Day, and commemorates her significant contributions and thanks her for her service as an outstanding member of the historic Rondo Avenue neighborhood in the City of Saint Paul.