Mary Cowser Alexander, a trailblazing figure in advertising and education, passed away last Thursday at the age of 90. Alexander made history as the first Black woman to appear in a Coca-Cola advertisement in 1955. Her legacy, however, extends far beyond this groundbreaking achievement.
Pioneering Representation in Advertising
Alexander’s appearance in Coca-Cola’s 1955 campaign marked a significant moment in advertising history. The company chose her from among 75 candidates to feature in ads aimed at Black consumers. This radical move for the time helped pave the way for more inclusive advertising practices.
Coca-Cola honored Alexander’s contribution during the 50th anniversary of her historic ad. The company hosted a gala affair in Atlanta, with comedian Steve Harvey as host. Alexander’s son, Richard Lane, recalled the event fondly: “It was a big thing, and it was all to honor her.”
From Rural Alabama to Educational Leadership
Born in Ballplay, Alabama, Alexander was the youngest of 10 children raised on her family’s farm. She left her small hometown to attend Clark College in Atlanta during the mid-1950s. This move set the stage for her remarkable career in education.
Alexander went on to become the first African American teacher in Michigan’s Mount Clemens School District. She later broke more barriers as the first African American female school administrator in Michigan. Her commitment to education culminated in her role as the first female principal at Highland Park High School.
Empowering Youth Through Career Opportunities
Beyond her formal roles in education, Alexander made a lasting impact as a corporate recruiter. She encouraged countless high school students to apply for jobs with major employers, particularly in the auto industry. Her efforts helped shape the careers and lives of many young people in Detroit.
Richard Lane shared a touching anecdote about his mother’s influence: “Your mother in 1980 sent me on a job interview when I was in high school. I got that job and worked at that job for 35 years. When I got there, I met my wife, we got married, and we’ve been married for almost 40 years.”
A Legacy of Strength and Inspiration
Despite facing health challenges in her later years, Alexander remained an inspiration to those around her. She battled scleroderma, a chronic autoimmune disease, with grace and strength. Lane described his mother as “the strongest woman I’ve ever known.”
Alexander’s impact on her community and family was profound. Her son emphasized her role in helping “hundreds, if not thousands, of African American kids” secure jobs with major employers in the Detroit area. Many of these individuals went on to have long, successful careers.
Remembering a Trailblazer and Community Leader
Mary Cowser Alexander’s life story is one of breaking barriers and uplifting others. From her historic appearance in a Coca-Cola ad to her dedicated work in education and community development, she left an indelible mark on society.
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