On the recordFebruary 2, 2016
Today I rise to recognize Flonnie Anderson of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This remarkable and talented woman has spent her life accomplishing things ahead of her time, from majoring in theater during the 1940s to helping desegregate a community, to starting her own theater group. As a teacher at Parkland High School in 1970, Mrs. Anderson directed a play that starred both African American and Caucasian students, a first in the history of Forsyth County schools. As a director, she also helped integrate the theater department at Wake Forest University. She was the first African American actress to perform with the Little Theatre of Winston-Salem. From that point on, the Little Theatre became known as a place where the African American community could be treated equally. In recognition of her 34 years as an educator, Parkland High School in Winston-Salem has named their auditorium for Mrs. Anderson. This honor is well deserved and pays tribute to her lasting impact in the local community. ____________________
