Raphael Warnock: “today I pay tribute to Ms. Mary Frances Early for the 25th anniversary of the Mary Frances Early lecture series at the…”

“today I pay tribute to Ms. Mary Frances Early for the 25th anniversary of the Mary Frances Early lecture series at the University of Georgia and the 5th anniversary of the naming of the University of Georgia's College of Education in her honor. Hailing from Atlanta, GA, where she was born and raised, Mary Frances Early played an invaluable role in supporting music education in Georgia and the desegregation of Georgia universities. After earning a bachelor's degree in music education from Clark College--now Clark Atlanta University--in 1957, Ms. Early began her career with Atlanta Public Schools as a music teacher. While teaching, she worked to expand access to music education for all students. In 1961, Ms. Early enrolled at the University of Georgia, helping to desegregate the graduate school. In 1962, Mary Frances Early made history when she became the first African-American to graduate from the University of Georgia, earning her master's degree in music education. As her career continued, Mary Frances Early became the first Black president of the Georgia Music Educators Association, where she traveled the State to support music organizations and advocate for music education. After dedicating 37 years to public music education, she later taught at Morehouse College and Spelman College and served as head of the music department at Clark Atlanta University. Ms.…”