Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, education advocate and former Delta Sorority president, dies at 93

By Catherine Pugh Special to the AFRO

(Source Special to the AFRO):

Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, 20th national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and pioneering educator, died at her home in Charlotte, North Carolina, on March 20, at the age of 93.

“Dr. Roddey was an outstanding educator who dedicated her life to service and developing strategic partnerships,” said Baltimore Alumnae Chapter President Geraldine Finch.

In 1968, Maxwell-Roddey was one of the first Black women appointed principal at a formerly all-White Charlotte-Mecklenburg elementary school. She joined the faculty of the University of North Carolina-Charlotte (UNCC) in 1970, becoming the school’s second Black professor. Four years later, she became the founding director of UNCC’s Africana Studies Department and she co-founded the Afro-American Cultural and Service Center, now known as the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts.

“There probably would not be a Harvey B. Gantt Center without Bertha Maxwell-Roddey’s vision. We are grateful for her attention to the African American culture in our city,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles.

”Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she has influenced through education, community advocacy, and the importance of preserving and celebrating Black History, arts and culture,” posted the Gantt Center on Facebook.

In a statement released by the National Office of Delta Sigma Theta it was noted that during Maxwell-Roddey’s presidency, the sorority partnered with Habitat for Humanity to address housing insecurity. Through this partnership, members of the sorority helped build over 350 homes for families in the United States, the Caribbean and Africa.

“Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey was an active and impactful member of Delta Sigma Theta for over 72 years. She inspired me as I watched her lead with grace and integrity,” said Finch, the Baltimore chapter president.