[Sophia Phillips-Nelson (above), photo by Heidi Murrin; and Fannetta Nelson-Gordon (below)]
By Jodi Weigand
PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Thursday, April 7, 2011
“As a talented concert pianist, receiving a B in music seemed ludicrous for Fannetta Nelson-Gordon. Yet, that's what her transcript read when she graduated 75 years ago from Westinghouse High School at age 15. Relatives say the principal ordered Nelson-Gordon's grades to be changed, to keep her from being the school's second black valedictorian in three years. 'It was one of the most painful events of her life,' said Gloria Wofford, 78, of Ross, who heard her aunt tell the story many times growing up. 'But it can show these young people today that no matter how abused you may have been, that doesn't have to stop you.'
The Westinghouse Alumni Association will posthumously name Nelson-Gordon valedictorian of Westinghouse's Class of 1936 during a ceremony today at the Homewood high school. The student body is 97 percent black. Sophia Phillips-Nelson, 93, of St. Albans, W.Va. -- Westinghouse High's first black valedictorian, in 1934 -- will accept the honor on her sister's behalf. 'The core reason the alumni association is doing this is to encourage these young black kids,' said Sylvia Wofford Burnett, 73, of Richland, Nelson-Gordon's niece.”
“After graduation, Nelson-Gordon performed as a professional musician and dancer, and later opened a piano and dance school. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Pittsburgh and taught German and French at Allderdice High School. She later moved to Harrisburg to work for the state Department of Education as coordinator for bilingual education and senior adviser for English, reading and oral communications. Nelson-Gordon died in August 2008, shortly before she was added to the Westinghouse Wall of Fame, which showcases alumni who overcame obstacles to achieve successful careers.”
This is my first read of the day and it is such a beautiful story. Thanks for sharing this information.
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