Overcoming Segregation To Become An Educator
Born in 1926 in the segregated South, Rhudean Raye moved to Meriden, Connecticut in the 1950s. She became the city’s first Black teacher in public schools, teaching first and second grade at Nathan Hale Elementary for over 30 years.
Despite dreams of being a nurse, Raye pursued teaching to raise her two sons as a single mother while still nursing part-time in summers. She loved interacting with and helping people through both professions. As she says, “It’s dealing with people.”
Serving The Community For Decades
Now 97, Raye continues giving back, serving on her church’s board, as an usher for 55 years, and president of various community groups. Her good works have been recognized with city, state and federal honors.
Most renowned is Raye’s scholarship fund started in 1985 honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and local civil rights activist Albert Owens. The annual MLK Scholarship Breakfast has raised over $100,000 to help 140 Meriden students attend college.
Raye also successfully campaigned for a street renamed after Owens in 2010. Her impact led Meriden’s mayor to declare June 2nd, 2023 “Rhudean Raye Day” for her 97th birthday.
Bringing Community Together Through Scholarship
What began in a church basement with 100 attendees has grown to 500 gathering for breakfast and speeches by dignitaries on MLK Day. Students perform and read award-winning essays on King’s teachings.
City Councilor Michael Rohde calls it a “feel good breakfast” and Meriden’s best MLK event. He says Raye “has something special” in uniting community and exemplifying the power of individuals to create change.
The breakfast teaches about civil rights history while funding the future. State Treasurer Erick Russell, keynote speaker in 2024, noted the gap between King’s dream and reality today. But he said Raye’s scholarship invests in youth to carry on the work, like CT’s new “Baby Bonds” program for children born in poverty.
Honoring A Lasting Legacy
At 97, Raye stands each year greeting students and officials, collecting donations to the scholarship she built from the ground up 38 years ago.
Her enduring community service and barrier-breaking career as Meriden’s first Black teacher have inspired generations. The scholarships granting opportunity capture the spirit of her life, as she says: “If you were lucky enough to make it, then look back behind you and help somebody else.”
