Fort River PGO Information

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Norma Jean Anderson Civil Rights and Academic Achievement Award Call for Nominations


The Norma Jean Anderson Civil Rights and Academic Achievement Award applauds the contributions of a current teacher, administrator or staff member in the Amherst and or Amherst-Pelham Regional School Districts who promotes the ideals of a just and respectful community built on compassionate relationships. 

Click here to learn more about the award and how to nominate someone.

Dr. Norma Jean Anderson 
(1936—2006)
"This award honors the memory of Norma Jean Anderson who lived and worked in our community and left a legacy of courage, determination and foresight. Dr. Anderson was born in Springfield, IL in 1932. She graduated the University of Illinois with a degree in Business and became the first black school teacher in her hometown. Dr. Anderson completed her doctorate at the University of Illinois in 1966. In 1970, Dr. Anderson came to the School of Education at UMASS Amherst as Associate Dean of Admissions and Alumni Affairs. She lead efforts to recruit a more diverse student body. After retiring from the University in 1994, Dr. Anderson was an educational consultant both nationally and internationally. “She will be remembered for many things, among them her leadership in addressing issues of institutional racism and instilling values of social justice at the School of Education and across the University”
- University of Massachusetts Amherst Chancellor, John Lombardi, 2006