Celebrating Black History Month with a Q&A: Adam Hudson
In celebration of Black History Month, we asked our staff to reflect on the Black individuals and moments that have had a profound impact on their lives, art, and teaching. Below, Adam Hudson, an English and Psychology teacher at Ivy Academy, shares his insights.
Who is a Black individual who has inspired you, and why?
Rev. Cecil Williams & Rev. Donald Guest
Rev. Cecil Williams and Rev. Donald Guest, both pastors at Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco, have been major inspirations in my life. I first found Glide at 26, newly arrived in the Bay Area. The first Sunday I sat in the congregation, I felt like I had come home, hearing an impassioned sermon from Rev. Don. Both Cecil and Don became my spiritual mentors over the next 8 years, guiding me through some of the darkest moments of my life with wisdom, love, and support.
Can you share a personal experience where a Black leader or figure made a positive impact on your life or perspective?
Rev. Cecil Williams & Rev. Donald Guest
Their mentorship shaped who I am today. I remember how Don would sit with me through difficult times, offering guidance, and how Cecil’s presence was like a spiritual foundation, always pointing me in the right direction. They helped me grow and navigate the challenges of transitioning from youth to adulthood, teaching me the power of love, resistance, and spiritual strength.
What is a lesson or value from Black history or culture that you carry with you today?
The power of resistance rooted in radical love. The history of resistance to injustice, hate, and bigotry, built on a foundation of love, continues to inspire me. I’ve learned to use my privilege as a white, educated, able-bodied man not as a shield, but as a tool to intervene and act against hate and injustice, embracing deeper empathy and love for all people.
Is there a Black historical event, story, or achievement that you think deserves more recognition?
The legacy of Glide Memorial Church and Rev. Cecil Williams’ ministry deserves more recognition. Glide was a hub for the Civil Rights Movement on the West Coast, grounded in MLK’s vision of the Beloved Community—Love All. Include All. Glide offered vital services to the community, including health care, addiction recovery programs, child care, community gardens, and the largest community kitchen in San Francisco, serving over a million meals annually. Cecil’s work continues to inspire me, and his ministry impacted my life in countless ways.
Celebrating Black History Month with a Q&A: Bradley Edwards
Q: Who is a Black individual who has inspired you, and why?
A: Dr. Walter Monroe
I met Dr. Monroe when I was 22, freshly moved to Gainesville, Florida, and he hired me as an assistant. During the 18 months we worked together, I learned so much—not just about the job, but about life. Dr. Monroe taught me how to be a better person, how to treat others with kindness and dignity, and how to love my neighbors, understanding that everyone is my neighbor.
He became an inadvertent father figure during a time when I needed one most. I often think about him and hope he’s doing well!
Q: Is there a Black individual whose story has deeply impacted your life?
A: PayPay
PayPay (Paylyn) was a 3-year-old in foster care who was with us when we first moved to Chattanooga. Though she stayed with us for just 4-6 weeks, the mark she left on our hearts is unforgettable. Her joy, intelligence, and curiosity were evident from the start. I’ll never forget how she excitedly said, “Look at that DAWG!” when our puppy walked into the room. Her vibrant spirit is something I carry with me.
Q: Are there any Black artists, writers, or musicians whose work you admire? Please share their name and what makes their work impactful to you.
A: Growing up, I didn’t have many opportunities to explore beyond my immediate bubble. I think that’s true for all of us to some extent—we’re exposed only to what we’re exposed to. As a child in Atlanta, I was familiar with MLK, and he will always be revered. However, discovering the works of Howard Thurman (King’s mentor) and James Cone opened up an entirely new perspective on the world for me. Their ideas helped expand my understanding and made my world feel much larger.
Celebrating Black History Month with a Q&A: Matt Raper
Q: Who is a Black individual who has inspired you, and why?
Earl Braggs inspired me as a writer. His collections of poetry, especially Hat Dancer Blue, changed the way I write and read poetry. Seriously, it's pretty rare that I don't think of him when trying to put poetry into words.
Can you share a personal experience where a Black leader or figure made a positive impact on your life or perspective?
I first met Dr. Charles Mitchell 35 years ago while attending a small church in Highland Park. We would run around after Wednesday night youth gatherings, and I have always been amazed by his upbeat attitude and resilience in any situation. A few years back a local news station shared his story (found here:https://foxchattanooga.com/news/local/from-homeless-to-success-relationships-are-key). He has overcome so much and the fact that I get to call him Dr. Mitchell is a true honor. He is also the reason we visit Howard High School every year. I want our students to see a real life hero. Someone whose hard work is not only impacting his life, but of the thousands of students that he has mentored.
