MC Foundation Donor's Story

Growing up in a poor but very close-knit family, Dr. Mamie Howard-Golladay embraced values that are indelibly a part of her personal and professional success.

As a child in the segregated South’s Jim Crow era, Dr. Howard-Golladay was faced with the reality that opportunities for blacks to progress in professional careers were slim. This fact did not deter her from excelling in school, and beginning her career as a nurse’s aide, making only one dollar per hour and eventually becoming president of Sullivan County Community College in Loch Sheldrake, New York.

Dr. Howard-Golladay’s climb to top academic positions began with hard work and determination. During her quest to complete nursing school, she worked on weekends and commuted to her classes, which were 60 miles away from her home. The long hours, coupled with having to leave her small child, were almost unbearable. Nevertheless, she endured and graduated at the top of her class, where she was the only African American student.

Dr. Howard-Golladay’s educational experience was similar to many of our Montgomery College students, who work full-time, take care of families, all while pursuing their education. Her educational degrees led to a career in nursing and teaching at Alabama’s Jefferson Davis Community College; Florida’s Pensacola Junior College; and at Michigan’s Mott Community College.

Now retired, Dr. Howard-Golladay cites her tenure at Montgomery College as professor and dean as a uniquely rewarding time in her career.

“As a former Montgomery College administrator, I recall my interactions with the students as always enlightening. I decided to leave a legacy through my individual retirement plan so that Montgomery College students will have the same opportunities that I had—to get the best education possible, fulfill lifelong dreams, and help others thrive.”

 

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