Teachers Who Changed My Life: A Tribute to Mentors and Scholars

The speaker reflects on influential educators in their life, starting with Mrs. Johnson, a respected teacher who instilled discipline and respect. Mr. Clayton, another teacher, encouraged the speaker's passion for basketball while teaching the importance of presentation and care. In higher education, mentors like ASA Hillard and Cynthia Dillard shaped the speaker's understanding of culture and scholarship. These experiences highlight the profound impact of dedicated educators and mentors in shaping personal and professional growth.

What was unique about Mrs. Johnson that even the narrator's mother respected her?

• Her beauty and kindness

• Her Southern background

• Her dedication and hard work

• Her ability to teach multiple grades

How did Mr. Clayton address his students?

• By their first names

• By their last names

• By nicknames

• By their student ID numbers

What did Mr. Clayton advise the narrator to do after noticing his interest in basketball?

• Focus more on academics

• Stop playing basketball in the morning

• Bring a change of clothes to school

• Join the school basketball team

Who was the mentor that influenced the narrator's understanding of black culture during his PhD?

• ASA Hillard

• Cynthia Dillard

• Mr. Clayton

• Mrs. Johnson

What role did Cynthia Dillard play in the narrator's life?

• She was a fellow student

• She was a basketball coach

• She was his first grade teacher

• She was a mentor who helped him become a scholar