I present to you my story which has been built from a legacy of love.

Doris Ross Reddick

Educator

The first Black woman elected to the Hillsborough County School Board where she served three consecutive terms.

Humanitarian

Mrs. Reddick committed her life to serving the community in across educational, social, civic, religious and political activities.

Matriarch

“Mrs. Reddick is a phenomenal woman who leads with compassion and lives with grace.” Ruth Hall

The first Black woman to serve on and chair the Hillsborough County School Board was Doris Ross Reddick.

Mrs. Reddick taught children and adults in Hillsborough County Schools for many years. She served as a resource teacher, reading teacher, learning specialist, curriculum specialist, assistant principal, and as an educational diagnostician.

Her story has been built from a legacy of love and the collective wisdom of generations. Former slaves to United States Presidents have held her hands to hold her, to guide her and to be honored to meet her. From Florida to New York Mrs. Reddick’s impact has been profound. She led the way to a peaceful transition during desegregation. She helped set the standard for teaching African American and Hispanic Studies in Florida. She put injustice to shame as she demanded equality for minority business owners. Her story reveals how one person with a soft voice and a firm hand can indeed make a difference. Her story serves as an example that you can materialize whatever dream your heart can imagine.