In recognition of Dr. Constance E. Clayton's extraordinary contributions to urban education and leadership, the College of Education and Human Development proudly established two initiatives to honor her legacy: the Dr. Constance E. Clayton Urban Education Leadership Award and the Dr. Constance E. Clayton Scholarship. These initiatives serve distinct purposes in recognizing excellence in urban education leadership and supporting aspiring educators from the School District of Philadelphia.
The Dr. Constance E. Clayton Urban Education Leadership Award is a prestigious accolade that honors individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation, and dedication in urban education. Annually, one exceptional individual is awarded this honor, symbolizing their steadfast commitment to advancing urban education. The inaugural recipient of this esteemed award, Kofi Lomotey, the Chancellor John Bardo and Deborah Bardo Distinguished Professor of Educational Leadership at Western Carolina University, embodies the spirit of Dr. Clayton's legacy as a trailblazer in urban education. Lomotey has been an educator and administrator at every level of education, from preschool to college, and has authored more than 50 books, articles, and book chapters on urban and black education.
During a recent ceremony, Penny Sparks Nixon, president of the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a newly elected CEHD board of visitors member, emphasized the significance of Dr. Clayton's legacy. In a symbolic gesture of support and commitment, Nixon presented a generous $50,000 check to fund scholarships for graduates of the School District of Philadelphia attending CEHD.
"Dr. Clayton's legacy as an educator, transformational leader, and student activist spans generations and can still be felt in the educational tapestry of our city today," said Sparks Nixon. "Her leadership and advocacy weren't just contained to her work for education; as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Dr. Clayton embodied the ideals of our illustrious sorority: community service, scholarship, sisterhood, and social action."
"The collaboration between CEHD and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a powerful alliance, underscoring our shared dedication to education, equity, and community service," Dean Monika Williams Shealey emphasized. "Together, we nurture future leaders who will continue Dr. Clayton's legacy of excellence and effect lasting change in urban education. This partnership is a testament to our shared vision's strength and commitment to making a difference."
The Dr. Constance E. Clayton Scholarship serves as both financial aid and a beacon of hope for aspiring educators. It empowers them to follow in Dr. Clayton's pioneering footsteps and is a testament to our belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities.
Dr. Clayton, an esteemed alumna of the college (EDU '55,' 68,' 69) and emerita member of the CEHD Board of Visitors, epitomized dedication to education and community service.
As we pay tribute to Dr. Constance E. Clayton's remarkable legacy, we celebrate her profound impact on education and reaffirm our commitment to creating a brighter future for generations to come.
Your support is vital in continuing Dr. Clayton's legacy of empowering aspiring educators. Donate to the Dr. Constance E. Clayton Scholarship today and help nurture future leaders in urban education.