Painting by Tony Bryant
| Our school is named to honor Sister Thea Bowman. Sister Thea was a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. She was born “Bertha” Bowman on December 29, 1937, in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Thea was gifted with a brilliant mind, beautiful voice and a dynamic personality. She shared her gifts through a career in education. From 1968 to 1972, she attended the Catholic University of America and received both a master’s and a doctorate in English. After 16 years of teaching at the elementary, secondary and university level, she became an advocate for intercultural awareness. Sister Thea gave presentations across the country; lively gatherings that combined singing, teaching, and storytelling. Her programs were directed to break down racial and cultural barriers. She encouraged people to communicate with one another so that they could understand other cultures and races. In 1984, Sister Thea was diagnosed with breast cancer, but she continued her public appearances seated in a wheel chair choosing as she said, "to live until I die." In 1987, she was featured on “60 Minutes.” Sister Thea lived a full life fighting prejudice, distrust, ignorance and hatred. She died on March 30, 1990 at the age of 52. Nationally, there are five schools, both public and private, named in her honor. Given Thea Bowman’s reputation and connection with many people in the District of Columbia, it is both fitting and appropriate to name the school after her. | |
