My guest today is Frances Pratt. In my Nyack, NY community, Frances, at age 86, is a beloved, living legend. Frances is a registered nurse, who had a 53 year career at Nyack Hospital, which included being head nurse of ER and later a health administrator. The hospital named a waiting room after Frances, a scholarship in her name, as well as a positive-image rose garden. Frances is also a "licensed family care" provider and for 48 years housed up to 6 mentally challenged women in her home, at a time. The National Association for the Advanced of Colored People (NAACP) was formed in 1909 and is celebrating its 111th anniversary, continuing their commitment to social justice and equity. Frances has served as president of the NAACP Nyack chapter since 1981. In addition to her long history of making a positive difference in countless lives, Frances has wowed her colleagues, congregants, audiences and community members with her colorful, large, striking hats. She explains the origins of such vibrant accessories as a way for black women to boost their self esteem, give themselves respect after their exhausting hours of demeaning, dehumanizing work. I was honored to peak at a partial collection in her bedroom, where 100 of her hats resided! Frances's strong faith, altruistic values and deep care for humanity are embedded in her frequent southern sayings and memorized bible verses. Check out the show notes for links to the NAACP website and articles featuring Frances. Enjoy the podcast!

Links: Nyack NAACP "The Many Hats of Frances Pratt" - Patch Nyack News & Views