“As an 8th grader, one of the first things that caught my attention was that he was black. I do not wish to make this about race, but he was the first Black American (Male) teacher that I ever had. In my mind, being a teacher was something that black men did not do. Mr. Anderson proved me wrong on so many levels. It was his integrity and the initiative that he took with not only me but every student he encountered. I learned from him to respect myself so others would do the same. No matter the room, he walked in with his presence and demanded respect. I learned to do that. One thing that had a lasting effect on me was Mr. Anderson being firm, fair, and consistent. I have kept these three things close to me, remembering Mr. Anderson as my example on how to live and be in this world. I cannot remember the year, but it was the last Billy Graham crusade he would ever lead. It was Mr. Anderson who asked me if I would like to go. I responded yes. With permission from my auntie, I was able to go. It was at this crusade that my Christian life began. Thank you Mr. Anderson for being a great Godly example for me and all the other students’ lives you encountered.”
Vincent Taylor