1 10 24 https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/34c10e443d202e6bf9e9d507308cee94.jpg d3144b576b8ffcf6f168dae2b3865c3f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1945 Birthplace Richmond Occupation Athlete and Entrepreneur Biographical Text Born in the Halifax County town of Clover, Willie Edward Lanier graduated in 1963 from Richmond's Maggie Walker High School as a star football player. He attended Morgan State University, in Baltimore, where he became a two-time Small College All-American. A second-round pick of the American Football League's Kansas City Chiefs in the 1967 draft, Lanier became the first African American to play middle linebacker, the position often described as the quarterback of the defense as the leader of the defense on the field, in 1970 he helped spur the Chiefs to an upset win in Super Bowl IV. Nicknamed "Contact" because of his aggressive tackling, Lanier was named to league all-star teams each year between 1968 and 1975 and missed only one game during his last ten seasons. He received the NFL's Man of the Year Award in 1972 for his community volunteer work. Lanier retired in 1977. One of football's greatest linebackers, he was elected to the National Football League Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986 and named by the NFL in 1994 as one of the top seventy-five players ever to play the game. The Richmond Times-Dispatch Touchdown Club of Richmond's award for the best small-college football player in Virginia is named for him. Since retiring from the game and returning to Richmond, Lanier has become a successful business executive. Active in many charitable causes, he lives in Midlothian and directs the Lanier Group LLC investment firm. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/trailblazers-2012" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2012</a> African American Trailblazers honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Willie Lanier Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Willie Lanier Subject The topic of the resource African American Trailblazers Description An account of the resource Willie Lanier broke through racial barriers in professional football by becoming the first African American to play middle linebacker, the position that directs the defense on the field. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2012 African American Trailblazers Honoree Business and Entrepreneurship Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/47d86906fd2ed25b2c86d6e94471f3ea.jpg 4e56bf69f3f2344141538d157d2d2ec6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1940 Birthplace Accomack County Occupation Aviation Pioneer and Philanthropist Biographical Text William E. Bailey graduated from Accomack County’s segregated high school at the age of 15 and went on to study at Virginia State College (later Virginia State University). There he excelled in wrestling and in 2003 was named to the VSU Sports Hall of Fame. Before graduating in 1960, he entered the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and in March 1962 he joined the army as a second lieutenant. At a time when few African Americans served as army aviators, Bailey was a combat pilot during the Vietnam War. He received many honors, including two Distinguished Flying Crosses, three Bronze Stars, and two Purple Hearts. Before retiring with the rank of colonel, he also served as a pilot assignment officer at the Pentagon and as the personal pilot for General William Westmoreland and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey. Following his retirement Bailey became a commercial pilot for Continental Airlines. During his four decades in military and commercial aviation, he trained more than 1,000 students. A mentor to African-American students, he strives to increase diversity in the field of aviation and has assisted aspiring pilots through programs supported by the Organization of Black Airline Pilots. Bailey stresses the importance of pursuing higher education. As a member of the VSU Foundation's board of trustees, he has worked tirelessly to cultivate endowments and scholarships and helped establish the Bailey Family Endowment, which has provided more than $150,000 in financial aid to VSU students. In 2016 Bailey was inducted into the Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2017" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2017</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVnijJV7ddA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch</a> William Bailey's speech at the 2017 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History awards ceremony on February 3, 2017. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Bill Bailey. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William E. Bailey Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource After a decorated career as a military and commercial pilot, William E. Bailey continues to work for increased diversity in the aviation profession and to expand educational opportunities for African Americans. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2017 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Military Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/b2ab8f805c349172f6a5e3bcd8ee2355.jpg 6b2b00ecb2a4772b21e4f1b1a350112d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Postwar United States Description An account of the resource The era immediately following World War II brought about vast changes, not only in foreign policy, but in economics and a changing civic landscape. The liberalism of the New Deal era grew into movements towards increasing civil liberties and economic opportunities, particularly for minorities and women. Protests became more and more common to the average American as groups demanded equal rights and voting equality. These movements were juxtaposed with Jim Crow laws and the reemergence of the KKK, which showed the darker side of life in the American South. The Cold War pitted the United States and its allies in the newly formed NATO against the ever-increasing and expanding Soviet Union and its fellow Communist regimes, particularly China, Korea and Vietnam. While this era is considered Postwar, it is in fact a move towards a new type of war, where campaigns are fought not only on the battleground, but in the political arena and social consciousness as well, fueled strongly by the increasing influence of television news. The fall of the Nazi regime opened the door to the Iron Curtain and Soviet dominance of Eastern Europe, and the defeat of Japan opened previously invaded lands to the chance to choose new leaders, many of whom sided with the tenants of Communism over those of Capitalism. The United States would spend much of this time period combating the “Domino Effect” to try and stem the spread of Communism, particularly in its own hemisphere with Cuba. At the same time, the United States invested millions into Western Europe through the Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan to halt the spread of Communism further west. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1945-1970s Person An individual. Birth Date 1921 Birthplace Danville Death Date 1990 Occupation Stock Car Racer Biographical Text After working as a taxi driver and a moonshine runner, Wendell Oliver Scott (August 28, 1921-December 23, 1990) began racing professionally late in the 1940s. Owners of the Danville raceway approached Scott about racing, with hopes of increasing African American attendance at their events. The officials had consulted with local authorities, who reported that Scott had several speeding offenses and that he was the one moonshine runner that they could not catch. In 1959 Scott won the Sportsman Division championship at Richmond's Southside Speedway and NASCAR's Virginia State Sportsman Championship. In 1961, after nearly 200 wins, he decided to leave the Sportsman and Modified racing leagues and move to NASCAR's major division, the Grand National racing circuit. Racing in nearly 500 NASCAR Grand National (later Sprint Cup) events, Scott earned more than $180,000. He won one checkered flag, in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 1, 1963, but was denied the opportunity to publicly celebrate his only Grand National victory. At the conclusion of the race, Scott was scored a lap down and the second-place finisher, Buck Baker, was declared the winner. Scott contested the decision, and hours later NASCAR overturned the ruling, citing a scoring error. Although Scott never accepted the explanation, he handled the slight with dignity, as he did in scores of other instances of discrimination that he faced in his personal and professional life. A racing accident in Florida forced Scott to retire from competition in 1973. He finished his career with 147 top ten finishes in 495 Grand National starts. He was named to the National Sports Hall of Fame, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame, and the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/trailblazers-2011" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2011</a> African American Trailblazers honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Steerforth Press and reprinted from Hard Driving: The Wendell Scott Story by Brian Donovan. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wendell Scott Subject The topic of the resource African American Trailblazers Description An account of the resource Wendell Oliver Scott was the first African American to drive in the highest level of stock car racing and remains to date the only African American to have won a major NASCAR race. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2011 African American Trailblazers Honoree Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/e7a36d34d6c4486fab4c61662b8f4aef.jpg 2f4ff36d761d1a6329921fe19ed212ca Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1989 Birthplace Westmoreland County Occupation Football Player and Philanthropist Biographical Text Growing up in the Westmoreland County town of Colonial Beach, Torrey Smith learned the importance of responsibility as the child of a single mother. As the oldest, he helped care for and tutor his six younger siblings. He excelled in academics and sports at nearby Stafford High School, and attended the University of Maryland on a football scholarship. After graduating in 2010 with a degree in criminology and criminal justice, Smith was drafted as a wide receiver in the second round by the Baltimore Ravens. He helped the team win the Super Bowl in the 2012 season. He later played for the San Francisco 49ers, where he was the team's 2016 nominee for the National Football League’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for commitment to community involvement. He won another Super Bowl ring in 2018 playing a season with the Philadelphia Eagles. After a season with the Carolina Panthers, Smith announced his retirement in September 2019. Making Baltimore his home, Smith and his wife, Chanel, both the first in their families to attend college, wanted to make a difference in their community, especially with at-risk youth. They started the Torrey Smith Family Fund, which sponsors many dynamic initiatives, including back-to-school and after-school programs; teen mentoring; sports and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) camps; charitable basketball games; and holiday meal and gift programs. A highlight of the organization's work is the Tevin Jones Memorial Scholarship Fund, named to honor Smith's late brother. Each year the fund awards $5,000 scholarships to four college-bound students from low-income families in Maryland, Pennsylvania, or Virginia. After learning that his childhood basketball court had been destroyed in a fire, Smith helped fund a new park with a playground, pavilion, and basketball and tennis courts that the town of Colonial Beach dedicated in 2019 as Torrey Smith Recreational Park. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2020</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z7e3LpgU5U" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch</a> Torrey Smith's visit to the Library of Virginia to learn more about his family's roots. Bibliography Image courtesy of Torrey Smith. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Torrey Smith Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Super Bowl champion Torrey Smith has used his academic and athletic success to establish community programs that inspire and assist youth in achieving their educational goals. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2020 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/77fdafc709630f1d68379af0d44d8534.jpg 50c68f5749556dfca3ac7943f0e9c7c5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1965 Birthplace Richmond Death Date 2015 Occupation Television News Anchor and Cancer Treatment Advocate Biographical Text Born in Tacoma, Washington, and a graduate of Louisiana State University, Stephanie Rochon (May 3, 1965–June 3, 2015) began her career in radio in Baton Rouge before ultimately becoming a news anchor in Austin, Texas. In 1999, she relocated to Richmond to serve as an evening news co-anchor at WTVR Channel 6. Asked by her news director to produce monthly reports on breast cancer awareness, Rochon drew on her mother’s experience as a breast cancer survivor for her “Buddy Check 6” segments. She related stories of survivors and important health information and in particular encouraged women to do self-exams and have a buddy remind them to get yearly mammograms. She focused especially on reaching low-income women and African Americans, who are disproportionally affected by the disease. The American Cancer Society honored her work with its Regional Media Award. In 2015, Rochon was nominated for an Emmy Award for “Buddy Check 6.” In addition to her work in the newsroom, Rochon served on the board of the Ellen Shaw de Paredes Breast Cancer Foundation, which helps provide access to mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women. Rochon also participated in the annual Gift of Life Block Walk, in which cancer survivors and volunteers visit underserved African-American communities to share information and raise awareness of breast health. After her death from bile duct cancer in 2015, the Virginia General Assembly recognized Rochon’s work on behalf of women’s health and the “Buddy Check 6” reports, which continue to air on Channel 6. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2017" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2017</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvYDWDjZmrg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch</a> Stephanie Rochon-Moten's family accept the award on her behalf at the 2017 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History awards ceremony on February 3, 2017. Bibliography Image Courtesy of WTVR-TV6. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Stephanie Therese Rochon-Moten Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource News anchor Stephanie Rochon raised breast cancer awareness through her award-winning “Buddy Check 6” news segments. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2017 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/db45ec93a83f8282598580dac876276d.jpg db06f2694d94383e131e5abd83b3c31b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1949 Birthplace Hampton Occupation Mathematician Biographical Text An innovative media executive and entrepreneur, Sheila Crump Johnson (born 1949) grew up in Maywood, Illinois. After receiving a bachelor's degree in music from the University of Illinois, she taught music and perfected her skill on the violin. As a cultural liaison to the Middle East for the U.S. Information Agency, she helped establish the National Music Conservatory of Jordan. In 1980 Johnson cofounded Black Entertainment Television, the first station focused on the needs, interests, and culture of African Americans. In addition to initiating successful programming for adult audiences, she created Teen Summit, a weekly show that allowed teenagers to talk candidly about important issues in their lives. Since selling her interest in BET in 2000, Johnson has focused on numerous real estate and business opportunities near Salamander Farm, her 200-acre property in Middleburg. She is president of the Washington Mystics, a Women's National Basketball Association team, and also owns minority shares of the Washington Capitals and the Washington Wizards. She is a photographer and has designed a line of luxury linens. Johnson has become one of the nation's most notable philanthropists, particularly in education and the arts. She has made major gifts to the United Negro College Fund, the Hill School in Middleburg, Howard University, the Levine School of Music, and the Parsons School of Design. In 2002 her generous contributions established the Sheila Crump Johnson Institute at the State University of New York at Morrisville, which supports diversity and character building for students and the college community. Johnson's leadership and her commitment to sharing the fruits of her success with others have brought her many honors, including recognition in 2006 by the Dallas Morning News as one of the nation's most distinguished women leaders. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/va-women-2007" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2007</a> Virginia Women in History honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Shelia Crump Johnson Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sheila Crump Johnson Subject The topic of the resource Virginia Women In History Description An account of the resource A cofounder of Black Entertainment Television, Sheila Crump Johnson is a dynamic philanthropist who supports education and the arts. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2007 Virginia Women in History Honoree Business and Entrepreneurship Community Leadership and Philanthropy Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/f1951a0806a1866f7962d1a329785777.jpg da65d990fdeacfa15f400e8e504f3e52 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Great Depression and World War II Description An account of the resource Along with events such as the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and the Industrial Revolution, the Great Depression helped to shape modern-day America. The circumstances of the Great Depression enlarged the role of the government in the everyday life of Americans, particularly through FDR's New Deal initiative. World War II helped not only to bring the nation out of the Depression, but also put the United States on the world stage as a leader. Unlike previous administrations who subscribed to a certain level of isolationism, both FDR and Truman placed the United States on a path to strong involvement and leadership in worldwide conflicts and reform movements. Additionally, World War II changed the role of women who went into the workforce as American men went to war. Events such as the bombing at Pearl Harbor, liberation of concentration camps, and the use of atomic bombs provide images and stories that have helped to shape future American foreign policy. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1929-1945 Person An individual. Birth Date 1899 Birthplace Lynchburg Death Date 1971 Occupation Physician and Tennis Coach Biographical Text Following a college career playing football at Pennsylvania's Lincoln University as a Negro All-American, Robert Walter "Whirlwind" Johnson (April 16, 1899-June 28, 1971) coached football for four seasons in Virginia and Texas before entering Meharry Medical College, in Nashville, Tennessee. After completing his studies, Johnson established a medical practice in Lynchburg, where he became the first African American to receive obstetrical privileges at Lynchburg General Hospital. His perseverance and advocacy opened the door for other minorities following in his footsteps. In Lynchburg, Johnson discovered and fell in love with tennis. Because he came to the sport too late to establish himself as a top singles athlete, he instead dedicated himself to doubles play and to discovering and coaching younger talent. Johnson formed the Junior Development Program of the American Tennis Association, a program through which he invited dozens of young African American tennis players to learn and train at his personal courts. Through this program Johnson discovered and mentored several successful professional tennis players, most notably Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, the first two African American Grand Slam champions. In 1972 the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame inducted Johnson. He was also inducted into the Mid-Atlantic Tennis Hall of Fame in 1988 and the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009. Johnson's personal accolades included being named an NAACP Life Membership chairman and a recipient of the Spiro T. Agnew Honorary Citizenship Award. The Dr. Robert Walter Johnson Home and Tennis Court were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. Nominated by Leo Goldman IV, in Susan Bayne’s kindergarten class (2009–2010), J. G. Hening Elementary School, Richmond. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/trailblazers-2011" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2011</a> African American Trailblazers honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Robert W. Johnson III. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Robert Walter Johnson Subject The topic of the resource African American Trailblazers Description An account of the resource Robert Walter Johnson was a driving force behind the integration of the sport of tennis. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2011 African American Trailblazers Honoree Science and Medicine Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/a8c995d2a2ce735a2920e517f0e615b7.jpg b3fcefba948a695e0a05ae5cff455a92 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1983 Birthplace Richmond Occupation Football Player and Youth Mentor Biographical Text As a star athlete at Varina High School, Michael Robinson demonstrated the talent and drive that would take him to the National Football League. Playing quarterback at Pennsylvania State University, he led the team to the Big Ten Championship in 2005. That year he was named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year by the conference coaches and finished fifth in the Heisman Award voting. Drafted in the fourth round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2006, Robinson switched to running back and scored two touchdowns his rookie season. Signed by the Seattle Seahawks in 2010, he played fullback and was a key member of the special teams. His career highlight came in February 2014 at Super Bowl XLVIII when the Seahawks defeated the heavily favored Denver Broncos, after which he retired from the NFL. His career statistics include 115 carries for 422 yards and two touchdowns, along with 75 receptions for 610 yards and three touchdowns. A three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection at Penn State, Robinson graduated with a B.A. in advertising and public relations and a B.A. in journalism. A sought-after NFL analyst, he also has produced and hosted his own sports talk show. In 2010 Robinson established the Excel to Excellence foundation in Richmond to help disadvantaged children. Its projects include Team Excel, a program he developed in which athletes mentor students who compete for prizes by excelling in their school performance and in community service participation. Through his foundation, Robinson strives to make a difference in students' lives. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2016" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2016</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion. <a href="https://youtu.be/A5kCKa4ub8Y" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch</a> Michael Robinson's speech at the 2016 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History awards ceremony on February 3, 2016. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Michael Robinson. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Michael Robinson Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource A success in the classroom and on the gridiron, Super Bowl champion Michael Robinson encourages students to strive academically and participate in community service. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2016 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/00e7519aa97dc1c4e4d6fd07eef89cec.jpg 4d1476136e264050cd0474ac0287c0aa Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1958 Birthplace Hampton Occupation Youth Sports Mentor Biographical Text A basketball star at Hampton’s Phoebus High School, Marcellus Spencer “Boo” Williams, Jr., left for Philadelphia to become a college standout at Saint Joseph’s University. After playing professional basketball in Europe, Williams returned to Hampton to work as an insurance agent. Inspired by a Philadelphia youth basketball league, in 1982 he created the Boo Williams Summer League with only $400 and forty-six players. The league, now known as the Boo Williams Nike Invitational, has grown to more than 200 teams and more than 2,000 male and female participants from across the country. Over the years his teams have won multiple national Amateur Athletic Union Championships and many players have gone into the college, Olympic, and professional ranks. Envisioning a major youth sports facility for Hampton, in 2008 he opened the Boo Williams Sportsplex, a 135,000-square-foot, 4,000-seat, $13.5 million facility with eight basketball courts, twelve volleyball courts, eight indoor hockey fields, and an indoor track and field. Operating what the Philadelphia Inquirer has called “the nation’s premier youth organization,” Williams has been the AAU chairman of Boys Basketball and a member of the USA/ABA Cadet Committee for Development of Future Olympians. A member of Saint Joseph’s Hall of Fame, Williams was the Walt Disney Wide World of Sports Volunteer of the Year in 2001, and a member of the inaugural class of the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame. In 2013 the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame named Williams one of its three winners of the Mannie Jackson–Basketball’s Human Spirit Award. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2014" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2014</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Marcellus Spencer Williams Jr. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Marcellus Spencer "Boo" Williams Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Marcellus Spencer “Boo” Williams, Jr., created a nationally known summer youth basketball program and led the way in developing a state-of-the-art community sports facility in Hampton. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2014 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Sports and Media https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/files/original/1d5dcc3bf43ed2916eebbc59250dbdb5.jpg 79bf58013129ac130b3e3f7664bacfea Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1964 Birthplace Lynchburg Occupation Astronaut Biographical Text Leland D. Melvin (1964- ) was born in Lynchburg to Deems and Grace Melvin. After graduating from Hermitage High School there, he received a football scholarship to the University of Richmond where he studied chemistry. A standout on the field and in the classroom, he is a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Academic All-American and was inducted into the University of Richmond Athletic Hall of Fame. After college Melvin was recruited by both the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys but suffered injuries that prevented him from playing. Eventually, he started graduate school at the University of Virginia, studying materials science, and earned a masters' degree in 1991. Melvin began working at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Langley Research Center in 1989. Nine years later he was admitted to the Astronaut Candidate training program. Melvin took his first space flight in February 2008, logging more than 306 hours and 5.3 million miles in space as he and the crew of the Space Shuttle Atlantis delivered a laboratory to the International Space Station. During the mission he operated the shuttle's robotic arm. Melvin retains a wide variety of interests beyond his career. An avid photographer, he displays his work on his personal Web site. He also continues to enjoy sports including cycling, tennis, and snowboarding. As former co-manager of NASA's Educator Astronaut Program, he travels nationwide, speaking to educators and students. Melvin believes that sports are an important part of education, and teaches students that teamwork extends into all aspects of work and life. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/trailblazers-2009" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2009</a> African American Trailblazers honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of NASA Johnson Space Center. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Leland Melvin Subject The topic of the resource African American Trailblazers Description An account of the resource Leland D. Melvin inspires young people and encourages them to aspire to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2009 African American Trailblazers Honoree Education Science and Medicine Sports and Media